Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age… (Hebrews 5:13-14). Our opening scripture emphasizes the importance of growing to maturity spiritually. It tells us that anyone who lives on milk is still an infant and therefore not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. The Bible talks about the sincere milk of the Word of God. Milk is for beginners; therefore, to stay on milk means to remain in spiritual infancy. 1 Peter 2:1-2 tells us something instructive; it says, “Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.” Only those who are spiritually immature practice malice, guile, hypocrisy, envy and evil speaking. Such folks are to crave or desire the pure spiritual milk of the Word and grow unto maturity. Take your Bible study seriously; learn the truth of God’s Word and grow. There’s more to spiritual nourishment than just milk. There’s the “meat” of God’s Word, and then there’s also “strong meat.” Strong meat belongs to the mature in Christ, those who have learned to live spiritually. Recall what Paul said to the Christians in Corinth: “And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able” (1 Corinthians 3:1-2). You must mature in the Word and develop a deep understanding of the Scriptures. Just as in physical growth where a person moves from milk to solid food, there comes a time also when a Christian must transition from the elementary teachings to the deeper, more challenging doctrines of faith and then be ready to handle even more complex truths (read Hebrews 5:11-14). Make your personal spiritual growth a top priority. Read Ephesians 4:14-15 NIV, and see God’s desire for your life: “Then we will no longer be infants…Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the spiritual nourishment you provide through your Word. I move beyond the basics and grow in understanding and application of the deeper truths of the Scriptures. I’m strengthened in my resolve to develop and exercise my faith, grow unto maturity, and manifest the glory-life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY:1 Corinthians 3:1-2And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, [even] as unto babes in Christ. 2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able [to bear it], neither yet now are ye able. Ephesians 4:14-15That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, [even] Christ: Hebrews 6:1-2Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, 2 Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. READ ALSO Rhapsody of Realities, November 14th 2024, ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR TRUE IDENTITY Daily Affirmation: Christ is made unto me wisdom, and in Him, I have access to the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I possess limitless wisdom, understanding, and knowledge of witty inventions. I am prudent, skilled, and proficient in every area of my life. I devise the best solutions to any challenge, and I am full of sound wisdom, counsel, and discretion. Christ is my wisdom, and with Him, there is nothing beyond my ability to handle. I am endowed with sound knowledge and understanding. I am strong, mighty, and powerful. My words are righteous and princely, and my lips speak truth always. I have an understanding heart, and my words are always in alignment with God’s will. Wisdom has been given to me by God, and I lack nothing. I know that nothing is beyond me, and I approach every situation with a wise and discerning heart. I think the right thoughts, speak the right words, and receive the results of God’s Word in my life. I exercise authority over my body, which is healthy and sound from the crown of my head to the soles of my feet. My body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and no sickness or disease can dwell in it. I am empowered to live in divine health, and I declare that I am whole and well. I am sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency, and His grace is enough for me in all things. Grace, the lifting power of God, attracts the right people, materials, and resources into my life. I am positioned for success and victory. I think thoughts of peace, joy, prosperity, and good health, knowing that God’s grace ensures that I have all that I need. I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms, far above all principality, power, and dominion. I am chosen, royal, and peculiar. I experience the supernatural power of God in my life daily. I reign in righteousness, and no weapon formed against me shall prosper. I dwell in God’s peace, with my mind focused on His Word, and I am kept in perfect peace continually. God has given me the Spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. I experience His power working mightily in me and make full proof of it every day. I reign, rule, and dominate my
