The Simple, Powerful Core of Spiritual Growth Practices
3 Areas of Focus for Ongoing Biblical Transformation
No matter the area of life, when we identify the core, great power is possible—including in spiritual and personal transformation. I’ve found that when I come across articles, videos, or books that list large numbers of steps to take, I tend to tune them out. I don’t need "45 ways to..." or "77 steps to...". I’m already overwhelmed with information overload.
Instead, what I need are a few focused practices that work. Below, I’ll share the three core areas that, when focused on, can lead to lasting, godly growth and transformation.
The Power of the Core
The concept of getting to the core resonates across all fields, from science to spiritual growth. Scientists work tirelessly to identify the core principles of the universe, which, when understood, unlock incredible power. The same is true for spiritual growth: once we get to the core practices and principles, great transformation follows.
1. The PERSON of Jesus Christ
Jesus is the core of the core in God’s way of life. As revealed in Scripture, Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega, and everything that exists came through Him and for Him. He holds all things together and is the key to salvation. As John emphasized, "He who has the Son has life" (1 John 5:11-13).
Jesus is not only the central figure in God’s order, but He is the key to everything that works. As Colossians 2:3 says, “In Him are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” He is the source of all life and the light of humanity (John 1:1-4). Jesus is always the central focus of everything in God’s kingdom.
2. Core PRINCIPLES
Built around Jesus are foundational principles that help us grow spiritually. These principles are the truths of how God created the world to function, as well as the beliefs and laws embedded in His creation. They provide stability, guidance, and confidence in our decisions.
Core principles include God’s nature, His power, holiness, wisdom, and the role of the Holy Spirit. They also cover our salvation by grace through faith, the cross and resurrection, our new identity in Christ, and the spiritual realities we live by. Learning and living these core principles are essential for true transformation.
3. Core PRACTICES
Finally, there are the core practices—the actual ways we grow closer to Jesus and live out His principles. These are often called spiritual disciplines, including:
Bible reading, study, and meditation
Prayer (including worship)
Christian community, fellowship, and equipping
Serving, giving, evangelism, disciple-making
Repentance, fasting, and spiritual warfare
The core practices of Bible study and prayer are the essential components of spiritual growth. These practices allow us to connect more deeply with the Person of Jesus and apply His Principles in our lives.
The Importance of Consistency
The principles and practices of spiritual growth should be central to our lives, and they are likely to continue shaping us even in the next life. Just as scientists have found subatomic particles that influence the very fabric of the universe, spiritually, there are deeper practices that make these principles and actions even more effective.
My goal is to help busy believers experience God more deeply, grow consistently—both spiritually and personally—and confidently live out their unique purpose.
