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And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. Luke 2:52

                   Over the last few weeks, many of our daily schedules have changed. Some of you might have used some extra time learning or trying something new. Many people are trying their hand at baking bread, doing landscaping, and building things. I guess this is a good use of time for people to grow in areas where they are lacking.

                   Luke records that Jesus, as he came up, increased in several areas. These areas would be great for all Christians to consider as we have time away from a normal schedule. First, Jesus increased in wisdom. To grow in wisdom is to grow in the proper application of intelligence. Second, Jesus increased in stature. He grew physically. Third, Jesus increased in favor with God. He grew religiously. Fourth, he grew in favor with men. He grew socially.  
                  
                   Jesus increased in all he did, at all times. He used every moment to grow in the things which he could control. Over the next couple of weeks, let us look at the time that we have and consider how we can grow like Jesus. What will help us grow in wisdom? What will help us grow religiously? What will help us grow in our relationships with men?  An increase in Bible study would surely help grow our wisdom. An increase in prayer would surely help grow our relationship with God. Our relationship with men can be as simple as checking in on one another. It can be a friendly smile or kind demeanor with the service industry and retail associates that are working so hard to help us get through it. While we may be apart from meeting in one location together, there is no excuse for us not to grow like Jesus.

Grace and Peace,
Ryan

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