Five Phases of the Christian Life

Only God does not change – we do. Our Christian life goes through phases. During these phases we must not be ignorant of Satan’s devices otherwise he will gain advantage over us.

Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8; II Corinthians 2:11

1.      The Daring Phase (Proverbs 37:5)

Daring to take God at his word. Hunger for God. Dynamic, rejoicing phase. Eager to learn.

But full of self life. Cannot forsake all to follow. Testimonies glorifies self more than God.

2.      The Deteriorating Phase ( Psalm 37:19)

Excitement fades. Become static. Begin to take it easy. Struggle to believe. Unwilling to learn. Cannot receive correction. Spiritual rust sets in. Covering up and blaming others. Spiritual nose-dive. Danger signals flashing. God is dealing with self-life. His surgical knife divides flesh from soul and spirit. (Hebrews 4:12; Matthew 10:39; 16:25)

3.      The Dried-Out Phase (Psalm 37:2)

Every Sunday gives a little lift, a slight buzz – but it doesn’t last. Interests change. Other things become more important. Deterioration sets in because of self’s inability to change. Self fails to overcome weaknesses. Self makes a sad characature of Christianity. Go back to old ways. Controlled by 5 senses, not by the Spirit of God. An old water pump only gives water when you pump it – there is no river of life inside anymore.

4.      The Discovery Phase (Psalm 37:27)

Discover that something is wrong. Compare car, TV – fix it! Length of this phase depends on you. Act now! Honesty required. You and those around you (Psalm 37:3) Prayer effort required. Study to show yourself approved again. Fast and pray. But then don’t be hard on others who don’t. They are in a different phase! (Romans 15:1,2)

5.      The Delightful Phase (Psalm 37:4; 23)

Because God is Faithful I submit to Him. I repent to change my way of thinking. I resist the devil till he flees from me in stark terror. I refuse to let Deterioration set in. I make a commitment not to live a roller –coaster Christian life. Be consistent. Dynamic, Daring, Delightful Christian life. Walk by Faith. Whatever God takes away from self, He replaces with Himself. Stop fighting God. In the end we have to realise we are not playing a game, but we are playing ‘for keeps’! Like playing marbles. Holy Spirit will help you change. Realise who you are and make a vow to God. Circumstances will no longer have power over your life. You will walk life faith and soar like an eagle over all the circumstances life can bring. You will be able to assist other believers.