Spiritual Growth

7 Characteristics of Laziness

November 10, 2024 • Jason Sparks • Proverbs

Laziness is often overly simplified. Using the book of Proverbs, this lesson is designed to understand and identify the characteristics of laziness in order to encourage you to overcome and grow.

God's Steadfastness in Your Development

November 10, 2024 • Jason Sparks

When we seek to faithfully follow God, we can have faith that He will give increase to our spiritual growth. Abraham is a perfect example of God's interest in our growth.

Becoming Barnabas

October 27, 2024

Principles of the Abundant Life

September 8, 2024 • Jason Sparks • John 10:10

As Christians, we know that we are blessed with the Abundant Life Jesus promised in John 10:10. We also know that there are many false ideas about what this is and how it applies to life. This lesson reveals principles and applications of life that are good reminders of what it means to be a Christian in today's world.

What is Our Role?

December 13, 2020 • Jason Sparks

The role of "Roles" in Christian growth. The roles God designed are to ensure we are busily growing throughout life. Rejection of those roles means we are not accepting God's desires for us.

3 Stages of Spiritual Growth

March 5, 2023 • Matthew 25:14–30

Learn the stages of Spiritual Growth so you know where you are and what needs to improve. It includes identifying your roles, growing into your functions, and enjoying the rewards of service.

The Abundant Life

October 31, 2021 • Jason Sparks • John 10:10

The "abundant life" is talked about a lot in the religious world, and a lot of it is false. But there is no doubt of God's blessings. How can we balance these ideas so that we don't go to extremes? Jesus wants everyone to have an "abundant life", but we need to understand what that means.

Keeping the Thanks in Thanksgiving

November 21, 2021 • Jason Sparks

How to find and keep joy. Learn the difference between joy and happiness and why the Thanksgiving holiday is important. This lesson explains the three basic components of joy: 1. Acknowledge 2. Appreciate 3. Ascend

Disciples Dealing with Depression

November 14, 2021 • Jason Sparks • Psalm 139:13–16, 1 Peter 5:7, Proverbs 12:25, Philippians 4:8, Job 21:2–6

How should Christians face and handle depression? Sharing personal insights from my life's struggle with depression over at least 35 years of my life. I want to help you with awareness and give you hope for your future. 1. Accept its presence 2. Learn strategies to manage symptoms 3. Look for patterns and anticipate stressors 4. Be honest with others about how you are feeling and tell them how they can help (if you know how they can) 5. Be honest with yourself 6. Never assume your feelings reveal how God feels about you 7. Never assume you are "bad" because of struggle 8. Allow yourself permission to be weaker at times 9. Accept that this could go on for the rest of your life 10. Stop beating yourself up. It may not be your fault, but even if it is, stop.

What is the Gospel?

September 5, 2021 • Jason Sparks • Romans 1:16

What is the Gospel? Some people think that the Gospel is only the "red letters" of the Bible (the specific words of Jesus). Others believe it is nothing more than the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. How did Paul view it? Learn what the Bible says about what the Gospel is.

Trusting In God

December 20, 2020 • Jason Sparks • Genesis 15:1–6, Genesis 16:1–5

What does it take for us to be convinced of the truth of God's promises and His faithfulness? Trust implies that you are acting on the things you believe. Obedience is a key element of faith. Here is how to develop that trust.