Navigating the Spiritual Journey: Growth Through Faith
Summary
Life is a journey, not just in the physical sense, but in the deepest spiritual sense. Each of us is on a spiritual pilgrimage, moving toward a destination that is far more significant than any earthly location. We are not merely physical beings having occasional spiritual experiences; we are spiritual beings navigating a human experience, destined for an eternal reality. This journey is not static or accidental—it is marked by movement, growth, and transformation. The book of Hebrews, especially chapters 11 and 12, reminds us that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses—those who have gone before us, who lived by faith even when they did not see the fulfillment of the promise. Their lives challenge us to run our own race with perseverance, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.
The journey is not always straightforward. Like a road trip, it is filled with unexpected detours, valleys, and moments of disorientation. It is essential to know not only that we are on a journey, but also where we are on the map, and whether we are oriented in the right direction. Many people know where they want to go, but have not taken the time to discern where they are starting from, or to align themselves with true north—God’s truth and purpose. The Christian life is not about shortcuts or quick fixes; it is about faithfully walking the path set before us, even when it leads through valleys of darkness or seasons of pain.
Repentance is the gift that allows us to turn around when we realize we are on the wrong path. Progress sometimes means retracing our steps, but God rejoices when we turn toward Him, no matter how far we have wandered. The valleys and challenges we face are not our destination—they are places we pass through, and in those places, God provides new grace, new strength, and new revelation. There are no shortcuts to spiritual maturity; every season, even the painful ones, is an opportunity for growth and transformation. Fixing our eyes on Jesus, we find the strength to endure, knowing that the journey is worth it and that our true identity and destiny are found in Him.
Key Takeaways
- We are all on a spiritual journey, not just moving through the motions of life, but being shaped for eternity. Our spiritual nature is the most real part of us, and every interaction and decision is moving us closer to or further from the glory God intends. Recognizing this changes how we see ourselves and others, calling us to live with purpose and awareness of the eternal stakes. [14:09]
- Knowing where you are spiritually is as important as knowing your destination. Many desire spiritual growth or breakthrough but have not honestly assessed their current state. The church exists to help us identify our spiritual location and take intentional next steps, moving from stagnation to transformation through community, teaching, and accountability. [20:31]
- Orientation—knowing your true north—is vital for spiritual progress. It is not enough to know where you are; you must be aligned with God’s truth and direction. Disorientation leads to confusion and wandering, but when we orient our lives toward Christ, we gain clarity, direction, and the ability to navigate the complexities of faith. [24:01]
- The right path is not always the easiest or most comfortable, but it is the one that leads to God’s intended destination. Every path has a trajectory, and wisdom asks, “Where does this road lead?” Repentance is the grace to turn around when we realize we are headed the wrong way, and God celebrates every step we take back toward Him, even if it means retracing painful ground. [29:19]
- The valleys and challenges we encounter are not detours but essential parts of the journey. God uses seasons of pain, testing, and waiting to equip us with new strength, authority, and revelation. There are no shortcuts to spiritual maturity; every experience, even the difficult ones, is an invitation to grow deeper in Christ and discover our true identity and purpose. [43:28]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:09] - Introduction to Hebrews and Its Relevance
[02:30] - Jesus: The Better Covenant and Foundation
[03:33] - Faith in Action: The Hall of Faith
[04:50] - Running the Race with Perseverance
[07:02] - Summer Road Trip: Growing, Not Gliding
[12:45] - Life as a Spiritual Journey
[18:14] - Locating Yourself on the Spiritual Map
[23:11] - The Importance of Orientation
[25:45] - Discerning the Right Path
[29:19] - The Power and Process of Repentance
[32:37] - What the Road Leads Us Through
[38:14] - Growing Through Valleys and Challenges
[43:28] - No Shortcuts: Embracing the Process
[48:01] - Discovering Your True Identity in Christ
[51:11] - Prayer and Closing Encouragement
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: Life as a Spiritual Journey
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### Bible Reading
- Hebrews 12:1-3
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
- Psalm 23:1-4
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
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### Observation Questions
1. In Hebrews 12:1-2, what are the things that can “hinder” or “entangle” us as we run the race of faith? How does the passage say we should respond?
2. According to Psalm 23, what does God do for us as our shepherd, especially when we walk through dark valleys?
3. The sermon described the “great cloud of witnesses” from Hebrews 12:1. Who are these witnesses, and what is their significance for us today? [[04:50]]
4. The pastor mentioned that Jesus endured the cross “for the joy set before him.” What does this say about how Jesus viewed his own journey? [[05:23]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon says we are not just physical beings having spiritual experiences, but spiritual beings having a human experience. How does this perspective change the way someone might view their daily life and struggles? [[14:09]]
2. Why is it important to know not just where you want to go spiritually, but also where you are starting from? How can being unaware of your current spiritual state affect your journey? [[20:31]]
3. The idea of “orientation” was discussed—knowing your true north. What does it look like to be spiritually disoriented, and how can someone re-orient themselves toward God’s truth? [[24:01]]
4. The sermon talked about valleys and challenges not being detours, but essential parts of the journey. Why might God allow us to go through difficult seasons, and what can we gain from them? [[43:28]]
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### Application Questions
1. The pastor said, “We are all on a spiritual journey, not just moving through the motions of life, but being shaped for eternity.” In what ways do you see your daily choices shaping your spiritual journey? Are there any habits or routines you want to change to be more intentional? [[14:09]]
2. Have you ever felt “stuck” or unsure of where you are spiritually? What practical steps could you take this week to honestly assess your current spiritual location? Who could you invite to help you with this? [[20:31]]
3. Is there an area of your life where you feel disoriented or unsure of God’s direction? What would it look like for you to “fix your eyes on Jesus” in that area? [[24:01]]
4. The sermon emphasized that repentance is a gift that allows us to turn around when we’re on the wrong path. Is there a specific area where you sense God inviting you to turn back toward Him? What’s one step you can take this week? [[29:19]]
5. Think about a recent valley or challenge you’ve faced. Looking back, can you identify any new strength, grace, or insight God gave you through that experience? How might you encourage someone else who is in a similar season? [[43:28]]
6. The pastor said, “There are no shortcuts to spiritual maturity.” Are there ways you’ve tried to take shortcuts in your faith journey? What would it look like to embrace the process instead? [[43:28]]
7. The story of the girl who discovered her true identity in a mirror was used as a picture of discovering who we are in Christ. Is there a “mirror moment” you’ve had, or need to have, where you see yourself as God sees you? How can you pursue that this week? [[49:37]]
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Closing Prayer:
Invite the group to pray for clarity about where they are on their journey, courage to take the next step, and grace to grow through every season.
Devotional
Day 1: Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith
The journey of faith is not a static one; it is a race marked out for each of us, filled with both challenges and opportunities for growth. We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses—those who have gone before us, believing in God’s promises even when they could not see the outcome. Our call is to throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and to run with perseverance, keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus. He endured the cross for the joy set before Him, showing us that the path to our destiny may lead through pain, but it is always worth it. When we grow weary or lose heart, we are reminded to consider Him who endured such opposition, so that we too may not give up in our struggle. [05:23]
Hebrews 12:1-3 (ESV)
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
Reflection: What is one thing that is hindering your spiritual race right now, and how can you intentionally “throw it off” today to better fix your eyes on Jesus?
Day 2: The Right Path May Lead Through Dark Valleys
Even when we are on the right path, following the Good Shepherd, we may find ourselves walking through dark valleys. These seasons can be confusing, making us question if we are truly in God’s will. Yet, the promise is that God is with us in every valley, guiding and comforting us with His presence. The valley is not our destination—it is a place we pass through, and on the other side, God prepares a table for us in the presence of our enemies. The journey through the valley is where we grow, gain new authority, and discover new revelations about God. [39:24]
Psalm 23:1-5 (ESV)
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Reflection: When you find yourself in a difficult or dark season, how can you remind yourself that you are passing through and not stuck, and what does it look like to trust God’s presence in that valley today?
Day 3: Repentance: Turning Around and Charting a New Course
Sometimes, we find ourselves on the wrong path, heading in a direction that leads to destruction or disappointment. The beauty of God’s grace is that repentance is always available—a chance to turn around, change our mind and direction, and begin moving toward God’s best for us. Progress may feel like backtracking at first, but every step back toward God is celebrated in heaven. The journey of repentance is not about shame, but about realigning with God’s purpose and experiencing the joy of a new beginning. [30:31]
Acts 3:19 (ESV)
Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out,
Reflection: Is there an area of your life where you sense you’ve taken a wrong turn? What would it look like to make a “U-turn” today, and how can you take the first step back toward God’s path?
Day 4: We Are Spiritual Beings on a Spiritual Journey
Life is more than just moving through the motions or experiencing the physical world; we are spiritual beings on a spiritual pilgrimage. Our journey is not just about where we are going physically, but about who we are becoming spiritually. Every person you meet is on a spiritual journey, moving toward one destination or another, and every season of life is an opportunity for spiritual growth, nourishment, and transformation. Recognizing this truth helps us live with greater purpose, intentionality, and compassion for others. [14:41]
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (ESV)
So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.
Reflection: How can you intentionally nurture your spiritual life today, remembering that you are a spiritual being on a journey toward eternity?
Day 5: There Are No Shortcuts—Grow Through, Don’t Just Go Through
The Christian journey is not about finding shortcuts or easy ways out; it is about growing through every season, not just going through it. Every trial, test, or valley is an opportunity for God to work something deeper in us—new grace, new authority, new revelation. Adversity is God’s most effective tool for spiritual advancement, and the destination is worth every step. Fix your eyes on Jesus, trust the process, and know that God is using every part of your journey to shape you into who you are meant to be. [46:19]
James 1:2-4 (ESV)
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Reflection: What is one challenge you are facing right now, and how can you shift your perspective to see it as an opportunity for growth rather than just something to get through?
Quotes
There are things that are in your life that will entangle you and distract you and can destroy you from running the race. Let us run with perseverance. The race marked out for us, fixing our eyes. Here's our destination. The pioneer and perfector of faith or the author and finisher, the author and editor of the faith. For the joy set before him, he also went through a race. He endured the cross. He went through the cross to get to his location, his destination, his destiny, scorning the shame, and sat down on the right hand of the throne of God. [00:05:04]
If you believe that someone gave you the the the numbers for the lottery and you believe they were really the right numbers, what what would you do? You would go do something about it? You'd go buy yourself and me a lottery ticket with those numbers, right? You would do something. Is it? He says the faith is the evidence of things not seen. It's the evidence. Faith is the evidence. But what's the evidence? You believe this. Show me you believe it. [00:03:45]
But what is he saying here? That in your race, you're going to go through some things. You're going to experience some things. And it's all for your good. [00:06:33]
But I'll tell you this. There is something about a summer road trip. Get in the car and turn up the music. Am I right? Get those sunflower seeds and just start. I spit. I don't even look where I'm spitting. I'm just I I'm free, baby. You're not going to keep me bound until you get to that one. You know that one that's in there that tastes like chalk and coffee. [00:08:30]
But let me just tell you this. We're not just moving through life. We are all on a spiritual journey, a spiritual pilgrimage. Every one of us. Why? Because we're not just physical beings. We're not just physical beings in this empirical world experiencing the natural world through sight, sound, touch, taste, feel, the five senses. There's another thing happening in us, through us, and around us. And what is that thing? It is our spiritual life. [00:14:09]
He says this in his book, The Weight of Glory. He says, "There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal." Think about that. There's no ordinary people. You've never just talked to a mere mortal. And then he goes on to say it is a serious thing to live in a society of possible gods and goddesses. [00:16:08]
Spiritually, what he's saying is you meet people, but people are on a spiritual journey, moving in one way or another, moving toward glory, moving toward that second resurrection, like Christ in his glory. The Bible says, "We don't even know what we shall be, but when he comes back, we shall see him as he is, and we will be like him in glory with him." [00:17:24]
If you want, hey, this is where I want to go. If you don't know where you are on the map, you'll never be able to charter your course. There's so many Christians I know who know what they want, but they don't know where they are. They know where they want to be, but they don't know where they are. So, they don't have they can't charter their course to get to where God is wanting them to go at some point. [00:20:08]
The church is here to help you with your next steps to identify this is where you are and this is where God is trying to get you. That's why we do next steps. That's why we do core classes. That's why we do small groups. That's why we do training for for leaders and small group teachers because there is more inside of you. And your spiritual journey is not just you getting in the you just getting into the milk truck and just stay chilled out, bro, till you get there. It's a life of action, progress, experience, growth, transformation. [00:21:03]
Do you know where true north is? Do you know? And are you oriented to where what right and wrong and good and evil and life and death. If you don't have an orientation, you're going to have a hard time chartering a course. I've done this with my phone. You think that? You think it's, oh, the phone will pick you up anywhere. No, not when you're deep in West County. Verizon doesn't love West County. [00:24:05]
The life of faith is a life of movement. The life of a Christian is not a static life. It's a moving life. God moves things in and through and around your life. Moves you in and through places and spaces. Amen. [00:25:26]
How do we discern the right path? Well, one of our convictions here at the Promise Center is this is that God's not just trying to make life good. He's trying to make you good at life. He's the person of Jesus prepares us for eternity, but the principles and the power of Jesus prepares us for life. So, we're good at it. Navigating the vicissitudes of life, the complexities of life. [00:26:06]
And you have to decide, am I just going to go through or am I going to grow through? Because the only real way to get through is to grow through. And so on our destin on our way to our destination, there's all these moments, all these stops, all these vignettes that are actually God working some things in and through our lives. [00:35:28]
Because if you keep reading the psalm, it says on the other side, he puts a table with my enemies. Now I have authority. I wasn't just in the spa day with God. Now I've gone through something and on the other side. My enemies are pulled up to the table and they have no authority. I've got the fork and knife and they've got a dull spoon. Come on, somebody. I'm in charge here. [00:41:04]
If you're in a single season, a struggle season, a discipline season, a a pain season, there's grace and power and authority waiting for you in this season. Some of you may be in a testing season, a surrender season, an isolation season, a warfare season, a broken season. Can I tell you, there's something that's in your season and valley that is going to change you, and you're going to come out the other side in authority and power. [00:43:20]
And the version of you, the new version of you, the new man, the new creation that is living, trying to thrive, trying to grow, that spiritual man, that spiritual woman. Can I tell you if you'll feed your spiritual man and you'll be obedient to what God is saying to you right now, you don't have to know every step, but you need to know your next step. [00:46:52]
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