Personal Growth & Learning- Grow in Grace: Pursuing Knowledge and Wisdom in 2026
Key Bible Verses:
Proverbs 1:5 (NIV) “Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.”
2 Peter 3:18 (NIV) “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.”
Proverbs 4:7 (NIV) “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”
Colossians 3:16 (NIV) “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”
2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV) “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”
Context Guide:
Opening Message: While only 7% explicitly mention gaining new skills as their 2026 goal, personal growth underlies nearly every other resolution. As Christians, we’re called to be lifelong learners – not just in secular knowledge, but in wisdom, discernment, and understanding of God’s ways. Every skill we develop, every truth we learn, every insight we gain can be used for kingdom purposes.
Practical Application for Your Congregation:
- Spiritual Growth: Commit to daily Bible reading, systematic theology study, or Scripture memorisation
- Ministry Development: Take training courses to serve more effectively in your calling
- Kingdom Skills: Learn skills that enhance your witness (communication, counselling, leadership)
- Cultural Engagement: Study apologetics, world religions, or contemporary issues to engage our world
- Personal Interests: Develop talents God has given you – music, writing, art, teaching
Discussion Questions:
- What’s the difference between worldly knowledge and biblical wisdom?
- How can we grow intellectually while remaining spiritually grounded?
- What skills or knowledge would make us more effective for God’s kingdom?
Growth Areas to Consider:
- Biblical Literacy: Systematic Bible study, theology courses, Hebrew/Greek language study
- Ministry Training: Evangelism, discipleship, pastoral care, worship leading
- Life Skills: Communication, conflict resolution, time management, financial literacy
- Creative Gifts: Photography, writing, music, design for kingdom expression
- Professional Development: Skills that enhance your marketplace witness
Practical Steps:
- Identify: What area is God calling you to grow in?
- Plan: Find resources – books, courses, mentors, online learning
- Schedule: Block time weekly for intentional learning
- Apply: Put knowledge into practice immediately
- Share: Teach others what you’re learning
Encouragement: The God who created the universe with infinite complexity delights when His children pursue wisdom and understanding. Whether you’re learning to play an instrument for worship, studying theology to teach others, or developing professional skills for marketplace ministry, God can use every bit of growth for His glory. Never stop growing – we serve a God of infinite depth!
