Jesus isn’t just looking for people who grow older in the church—He’s calling us to grow deeper in Him. Spiritual maturity never happens by accident; it’s the result of intentional planting, consistent practices, and staying rooted in Him.
REVIEW: Where You are Planted Matters
- READ: Jeremiah 17:7–8 — “But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit.”
- DISCUSS: Where would you say you’re planted right now—spiritually, emotionally, and relationally? What does the "fruit" of your life reveal about your current root system?
REVIEW: Staying Planted Matters
- READ: Colossians 2:6–7 — “So then, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, being rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, and overflowing with gratitude.”
- DISCUSS: What makes it difficult to stay planted where God has placed you? How might deepening your roots in Christ affect your stability, fruitfulness, and faithfulness in this season?
REVIEW: The Secrets of the Kingdom Require Intention Pursuit
- READ: Matthew 13:10–12 — “His disciples came and asked him, ‘Why do you use parables when you talk to the people?’ He replied, ‘You are permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others are not. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.’”
- DISCUSS: Jesus says that more understanding is given to those who listen. How can you cultivate a posture of listening in your life? What spiritual practices help you lean in and grow?
ASK:
What else did you get from this week's sermon? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?
PRAY:Father, we confess that we often chase growth in the wrong places. We uproot too easily. We get distracted by speed, comfort, or comparison. But You are patient with us. You invite us to be planted in You—rooted in Your Word, Your love, and Your community. Help us slow down, go deeper, and stay faithful. Form us into the image of Jesus through Your Spirit. Let us bear fruit that lasts. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
INVITATION TO RESPOND:
This week, take a step toward being more rooted and intentional in your walk with Jesus. Here are some ways to respond:
- Identify your soil: Reflect on what you’re currently rooted in—what voices, values, or practices are shaping you?
- Start a new practice: Choose one spiritual discipline to commit to this week—prayer, Scripture reading, solitude, or serving.
Find your people: Join a group or invite a mentor into your life to help you stay planted and accountable. - Eliminate distractions: Ask God to show you what’s been choking out your growth—then be brave enough to cut it out.
- Stay patient: Remind yourself that growth takes time. Resist the urge to rush—remain where God has you and trust the process.
You were made to grow—but only if you're planted on purpose.