Growing Despite the Obstacles
The Christian's greatest obstacle to spiritual growth is often himself, and true growth can occur in any circumstances through the power of grace.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the primary obstacle to a Christian's growth is often oneself, rather than external circumstances. He asserts that true believers can thrive spiritually even in the most adverse conditions, as their growth is not dependent on their environment but on their relationship with God. Tozer encourages Christians to take personal responsibility for their spiritual journey and to recognize that grace can flourish in any situation, even in a desert. He reminds us that blaming external factors for our failures is counterproductive, as God's grace operates independently of worldly influences.
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A lifetime of observation, Bible reading and prayer has led to the conclusion that the only thing that can hinder a Christian's progress is the Christian himself.
The true child of God can live and grow in circumstances that are wholly unfavorable to such life and growth. Outward circumstances can help little or none in a Christian's spiritual life. The whole philosophy of the spiritual way requires us to believe this.
For this reason, it is always bad to blame anyone or anything for our spiritual or moral failures. God has so ordered things that His children may grow as successfully in the middle of a desert as in the most fruitful land. It is necessary that this should be so, seeing that the very world itself is a field where nothing good can grow except by some kind of miracle. The old hymn asks the rhetorical question, "Is this vile world a friend to grace, to help me on to God?" And the implied answer is no. Grace operates without the help of the world.
Sermon Outline
- The Christian's Greatest Obstacle
- Blaming Others is Unproductive
- The Role of Grace
- Grace operates independently of the world
- Miracles are necessary for spiritual growth
Key Quotes
“The only thing that can hinder a Christian's progress is the Christian himself.” — A.W. Tozer
“God's children can grow as successfully in the middle of a desert as in the most fruitful land.” — A.W. Tozer
“Grace operates without the help of the world.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Recognize that your own spiritual struggles may be due to your own actions or attitudes.
- Stop blaming external circumstances for your spiritual failures and take responsibility for your own growth.
- Trust in the power of grace to overcome obstacles and achieve spiritual growth.