Counsel #13 — Babes In Christ

Picture: Counsel #13 — Babes In ChristCWe 23.1

Just as a newborn baby needs milk before solid food, new believers need to understand God’s Word and character before developing strong faith. When we initially come to Christ, we’re like spiritual babies — learning, stumbling, and growing along the way.CWe 23.2

The beginning of your walk with God isn’t supposed to be easy—temptations and trials will test your durability as a professor of faith. Some people who start with Christ end up changing their minds once they realize being a believer doesn’t mean living a life without trouble. As a spiritual babe new to living a life of faith, we might still get easily offended, rely too much on our feelings, and struggle to trust God fully. Although this is normal at first, there is an expectation of continual growth. The more time you spend in God’s presence through prayer and reading His Word will change the way you think, act, and respond to challenges as you spiritually mature. The goal is not to stay spiritual babies forever but to allow God to shape you into a strong, faithful believer.^{[21]https://www.ministrymagazine.org/archive/2021/12/Weaning-Babies}CWe 23.3

“I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready.” 1 Corinthians 3:2 NIVCWe 23.4

“It is only by growing, by bearing fruit, that we can fulfill God's purpose for us.” Ellen White in God’s Amazing Grace, p. 258CWe 23.5

Reflect: Are you growing in faith, or are you still reacting to challenges like a spiritual baby?CWe 23.6