5 Simple Practices Proven to Produce Lasting Growth and Transformation
Biblical Spiritual Growth Practices Woven Through Scripture
This article isn’t going to tell you to read the Bible, pray, go to church, serve, give, fast, or share your faith—though all of these are essential! What I want to share are 5 simple, powerful, biblical practices backed by research that, when applied, will work with the Holy Spirit to produce significant, measurable spiritual growth in your life.
1. Schedule It
Though it may not sound very spiritual, one of the common habits among spiritually strong people is that they prioritize and schedule time for spiritual growth. The Bible is filled with examples of individuals who set regular times for spiritual disciplines:
Daniel prayed three times a day.
David consistently spent time with God in the morning, evening, and throughout the day.
Jesus Himself had scheduled times for solitude and prayer (Mark 10:1b).
Put your spiritual growth on your calendar and use these set times to launch into deeper walks with God throughout your day.
2. State It
God told Habakkuk to record the vision and write it down, so that the reader could run with it (Habakkuk 2:2–3). Having a clear vision for your spiritual growth is essential. When we write down our goals, inspired by God’s Word, we increase our focus, faith, and energy. Proverbs 29:18 says, "Without a vision, the people perish."
Write it down. State your vision for growth. This act will give you something concrete to focus on and remind you of what God wants to do in you.
3. Study It
2 Timothy 2:15 encourages us to study God’s Word and handle it well. Reading is great, but studying takes it to another level. Proverbs teaches us to seek God’s knowledge like treasure. Study with a prayerful, action-oriented attitude—focusing on areas where God is leading you.
When you align your study with God's will for this season in your life, you’ll see significant transformation. For example, if God is calling you to grow in forgiveness, study those Scriptures, pray, and take small steps toward change.
4. Step In, Step Out, Step In
This powerful practice can radically change your life. Here’s the breakdown:
Step In to God’s presence—this is where His love, grace, power, and wisdom are available.
Step Out of past limitations, false beliefs, and fears. Renounce unbiblical thoughts and embrace God’s truth.
Step Into your God-ordained future. By faith, say “yes” to who God says you are in Christ.
When you step into God’s presence, renounce lies, and embrace His promises, you activate His power to change you.
5. Soak In It
Take time to rest and soak in God’s truth and presence. After reading Scripture or praying, take a few moments to let God’s love and truth sink deeply into your heart and mind. Many powerful figures in the Bible—Abraham, Moses, Joshua, and Jesus—spent significant time soaking in God's presence. This practice is transformational.
Quick Review
Schedule It
State It
Study It
Step In, Out, In
Soak In It
SUPER IMPORTANT REMINDER
It typically takes 63 days of practicing these spiritual disciplines to create lasting change in your brain and behavior. Many people stop after a couple of weeks because they don’t feel anything is changing. But growth is happening, even if it’s not immediately visible. Stick with it, and you’ll be amazed at the transformation.
My goal is to help busy believers experience God more deeply, grow consistently—both spiritually and personally—and confidently live out their unique purpose.
