We’ve all heard old wives’ tales—those well-meaning but often misguided beliefs passed down through generations. “Don’t swim after eating or you’ll get cramps.” “Cracking your knuckles will give you arthritis.” “Swallowed gum stays in your stomach for seven years.” While these tales make for entertaining conversation, they don’t hold up when tested.
Interestingly, many people believe spiritual growth myths just as easily as old wives’ tales. Here are some common myths people believe about spiritual growth:
These beliefs may sound right, but they can actually hinder our relationship with God. The truth is, spiritual growth is a process that requires humility, perseverance, and reliance on God. Instead of believing myths, we should focus on:
Just like old wives’ tales, spiritual growth myths can hold us back. But when we replace them with biblical truth, we can grow in wisdom, faith, and maturity.
Interestingly, many people believe spiritual growth myths just as easily as old wives’ tales. Here are some common myths people believe about spiritual growth:
- “Spiritual growth happens automatically.” Just like physical fitness, spiritual growth requires intentional effort—it doesn’t just happen over time.
- “Only pastors and church leaders grow spiritually.” Every believer is called to grow in Christ, not just the “professionals.”
- “Reading the Bible once is enough.” God’s Word is meant to be a lifelong source of wisdom and transformation, not a one-time read.
- “Going to church makes you spiritually mature.” Church is important, but just attending services doesn’t guarantee growth—application and obedience do.
- “The more Bible knowledge you have, the more spiritually mature you are.” Maturity isn’t just about knowing Scripture—it’s about living it out.
- “Spiritual growth means feeling close to God all the time.” Even strong believers go through dry seasons; faith isn’t based on feelings.
- “You have to be perfect to be spiritually mature.” Growth is a process—maturity isn’t about perfection but about consistent progress in Christ.
- “If you’re struggling, you must be doing something wrong.” Trials and struggles are often a sign that God is growing you, not that you’re failing.
- “Once you reach a certain level of maturity, you don’t need to grow anymore.” No one ever “arrives” spiritually—there’s always room for more growth.
- “Spiritual growth is all about personal effort.” While effort matters, true growth is fueled by God’s grace and the work of the Holy Spirit.
These beliefs may sound right, but they can actually hinder our relationship with God. The truth is, spiritual growth is a process that requires humility, perseverance, and reliance on God. Instead of believing myths, we should focus on:
- Daily time in God’s Word (Psalm 1:2-3)
- Prayer and dependence on the Holy Spirit (John 15:5)
- Serving and loving others as we connect in community (Galatians 5:13)
- Enduring trials with faith (Romans 5:3-5)
Just like old wives’ tales, spiritual growth myths can hold us back. But when we replace them with biblical truth, we can grow in wisdom, faith, and maturity.