1 Timothy 4:14 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.

In formula one we mentioned how following God’s formula we have influence in bettering the world. When people see that obeying God’s way leads to a better life, then they just might choose to follow God also.

Formula two still involves believers. This devotional is after all about living the life God has given us. Formula two is like formula one in that we still believe but do not activate or acquire the full promises of God due to our failing to correctly understand those promises and how they work in this life.

It begins with a failure to appreciate the total significance of salvation. Our eternal salvation is the final goal, yet some of us treat salvation like it is the only issue that needs to be addressed. It is what I call the “comfortable Christian” syndrome. It is fostered in churches where the milk of the word is the only thing preached. Hearing the same thing over and over again so that unbelievers might be saved only benefits the lost, but does nothing to develop the babes in Christ into mature Christians.

Hebrews 6:1 Therefore 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,

The issues I am talking about do not affect your eternal salvation which is assured. If Christianity were but an intellectual exercise you could read the bible one time and obtain everything you need. The life we live in Christ is a transformative life. We are ever changing if we will continue beyond the new birth and grow in Christ.

1 Thessalonians 2:13c it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

We access the effectual Word by immersing ourselves in the Word. The “comfortable” believer says “I’m good.” But are you truly happy, safe and satisfied if you have not received all that God has promised? Coming to a full understanding of God’s promises and how to access those promises are not found in the milk of the Word.

Grow in Christ. Be transformed.

Romans 2:12 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.