The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures and they do not mature. Luke 8:14

“If we are to grow up before we grow old, John would say, “We have to feed the spiritual nature and starve the carnal nature.” (Glen Schroder)

In addition to the practices of prayer, worship and study, I learned from John Wimber that mutually encouraging and accountable fellowship is vital to our maturation process. We cannot grow alone. Personally, I’ve found growth happens in my life most dramatically when I have three levels of relationship. Mentors and elders are important no matter how old we are or how long we’ve been in the game.

I also need an. outlet: people that I’m pouring in to. We need to be around young people we can pour into. This gives us life and vitality in our walk.

The third level of relationship is friends. We need peers who are close both in age and in station of life. People we can share our hearts with, pray for one another and care deeply for one another. 

I believe having these three levels of relationship in place will help us all to continue to grow up before we grow old. (from Glenn Schroder).

One more of John Wimber’s sayings is that

GOD DOESN’T HAVE ANY GRANDCHILDREN

– “But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” Luke 6:35-36

1 John 3:1 – “See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”

He wants to know each of us intimately. We want to create an environment where each generation can come to a place of faith for themselves. This Is essential for the kingdom of God to move forward. And accomplishing this involves a vision of the future and the willingness to make space for young people to grow.

So this is my plan for the new year and every year. To keep growing myself and make a place for others of each generation to get to know Jesus and grow. Hope this helps as you look at the year ahead and what your priorities will be.