By: JC Carter, IV

“So then, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.” – Colossians 2:6-7 (NASB)

Growth is a natural part of the Christian journey. Just as a tree must extend its roots deep into the soil to thrive, our faith must grow deep in God’s Word. It’s not enough to simply plant the seed of faith—we must nurture it, feed it, and allow it to mature.

Spiritual growth does not happen by accident. It takes intention, consistency, and perseverance. As we commit to studying Scripture, we develop spiritual strength, resilience, and wisdom that sustain us through life’s challenges.

Let’s explore what it means to grow deep in God’s Word and how we can cultivate a faith that is strong, unwavering, and fruitful.

1. Grow Deep in Understanding: Move Beyond Surface-Level Faith

“Like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation.” – 1 Peter 2:2 (NASB)

Many believers settle for a surface-level understanding of God’s Word, only engaging with familiar verses or relying on sermons alone. But just as babies need milk before moving on to solid food, we must desire spiritual nourishment that moves us beyond the basics.

Growing deep in understanding means:
• Reading the Bible regularly – Making Scripture a daily priority.
• Asking questions – Seeking to understand difficult passages.
• Engaging in deeper study – Using Bible study guides, commentaries, and historical context.
• Seeking godly teaching – Learning from pastors, mentors, and teachers of the faith. 

When we grow deep in understanding, we develop a strong foundation that anchors our faith and equips us to defend truth (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

2. Grow Deep in Wisdom: Apply God’s Word to Your Life

“But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” – James 1:5 (NASB)

Wisdom is more than knowledge—it is the ability to apply God’s truth to real-life situations. A tree may have deep roots, but if it never bears fruit, it does not fulfill its purpose. In the same way, we must allow Scripture to shape our decisions, attitudes, and actions.

How do we grow deep in wisdom?
• Pray for guidance – Asking the Holy Spirit to reveal truth.
• Meditate on Scripture – Taking time to reflect on how it applies to daily life.
• Practice discernment – Learning to distinguish between truth and deception.
• Live by godly principles – Making choices that align with God’s Word. 

A deep and fruitful faith comes from not just hearing the Word, but doing what it says (James 1:22).

3. Grow Deep in Resilience: Stand Strong in Trials

“Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.” – James 1:2-3 (NASB)

Life will bring storms, but a tree with deep roots can withstand the wind. Likewise, when our faith is deeply rooted in God’s Word, we will not be shaken by trials, doubts, or hardships.

Growing deep in resilience means:
• Trusting God in difficulties – Holding on to His promises in hard times.
• Standing firm in truth – Rejecting fear, lies, and worldly influences.
• Persevering in faith – Continuing to seek God, even when He feels distant.
• Encouraging others – Strengthening fellow believers who are struggling. 

A faith that has grown deep does not waver in adversity. Instead, it stands firm, bearing witness to God’s faithfulness (Psalm 1:3).

4. Grow Deep in Love: Reflect God’s Character

“May the Lord cause you to increase and overflow in love for one another, and for all people, just as we also do for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 3:12 (NASB)

Spiritual maturity is not measured by knowledge alone, but by how well we reflect the love, grace, and character of Christ. As we grow deeper in God’s Word, our hearts should be transformed to love more, serve more, and give more.

To grow deep in love, we must:
• Let Scripture shape our character – Allowing God’s truth to refine our hearts.
• Practice forgiveness and grace – Extending mercy to others as God has given to us.
• Seek unity in Christ – Choosing reconciliation over division.
• Love as Jesus loved – Serving selflessly and caring for those in need. 

A faith that has grown deep overflows with love, producing the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

The Call to Grow Deep

Growth in faith is a lifelong process, but when we commit to nurturing our relationship with God through His Word, we become:

• Rooted in understanding – Firm in the foundation of Scripture.
• Grounded in wisdom – Applying God’s truth to daily life.
• Resilient in trials – Standing strong in faith despite hardships.
• Overflowing in love – Reflecting Christ to the world.

As we grow deep in God’s Word, we become mature, steadfast, and fruitful disciples, ready to impact the world for His glory.

This year, let’s commit to not just reading the Bible, but growing through it—so that our lives may reflect the fullness of God’s truth, love, and grace.

Let’s go deep, GROW DEEP🌿, and stay rooted!