There is an enormous difference between growing old in the Lord and growing up in Him. One is automatic and requires no effort at all ... just aging. But the other is never automatic, or easy. It calls for personal discipline, continual determination, and spiritual desire. Churches are full of sleepy saints who are merely 'logging time' in God's family.
Charles R. SwindollWe want the safety of yesterday even though we know it's not where God would have us.
Charles R. SwindollGod doesn't work on our timetable. He has a plan that He will execute perfectly and for the highest, greatest good of all, and for His ultimate glory.
Charles R. SwindollSo, you want to be like Christ? Me too. But that kind of godliness won't just happen by hanging around a church or thinking lofty thoughts three or four times a day or learning a few verses of Scripture. It will take more - much more. Disciplining ourselves will require the same kind of focused thinking and living that our Master modeled during His brief life on earth.
Charles R. SwindollEncourage one another. Many times a word of praise or thanks or appreciation or cheer has kept people on their feet.
Charles R. SwindollWhen I think of vision, I have in mind the ability to see above and beyond the majority.
Charles R. SwindollIf you're running a 26-mile marathon, remember that every mile is run one step at a time. If you are writing a book, do it one page at a time. If you're trying to master a new language, try it one word at a time. There are 365 days in the average year. Divide any project by 365 and you'll find that no job is all that intimidating.
Charles R. Swindoll