12 Signs of Spiritual Growth

Feb 14, 2020 filed under Gifts & Fruits of the Spirit, Hope.

Number 12 in flowers

A subscriber sent the following “signs of spiritual growth” from a 12-step-program buddy. The list is a fun way to remember that it’s not situations themselves that are frustrating, disappointing, or hopeless.

No denying that a great disappointment hurts. But it’s our response that determines our choice to either calmly trust God and wait for the blessing that comes out of it, or to turn our back on God—and on our own happiness in that moment!

When I read the list, I noticed some things I had made progress in and others that still need some prayer and effort. Hope it helps you do a little spiritual inventory, too. And to celebrate what God has accomplished in you!

Scroll down and type the number of the one you’ve seen the most change in.
Love always,
Rose

12 Signs of Spiritual Growth

1. An increased tendency to let things happen rather than make them happen.
2. Frequent attacks of smiling.
3. Feelings of being connected with others and God.
4. Frequent overwhelming episodes of appreciation.
5. A tendency to act spontaneously based on faith rather than fears.
6. An unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment.
7. A loss of ability to worry.
8. A loss of interest in conflict.
9. A loss of interest in interpreting the actions of others.
10. A loss of interest in judging others.
11. A loss of interest in judging self.
12. Gaining the ability to love without expecting anything in return.

 

12 Responses to “12 Signs of Spiritual Growth”

  1. Janis S Sparks

    This list makes me happy! I know that I can always improve myself and my spiritual life, such as reading and studying my Bible with an attitude of prayer, without distraction.

  2. Tom Roberts

    My experience of spiritual growth is functional. My blue mood can shift suddenly to cheery the moment I exchange a cheery greeting with a supermarket clerk, a barista or a friend. At church I found myself arriving earlier and earlier for mass and prayer groups, as much as Forty minutes ahead of time, because I couldn’t wait.

  3. Ann

    #1 – most progress . Try as I might, I’m surrendering to my lack of control over everyone and everything.

    This is s great list! I am going to copy it and put in my daily reading book.

    Many thanks!

  4. Suzanne Landis

    #12 – This one is most rewarding for joy comes in loving, not just in being loved.

  5. Melanie Rigney

    Rose, I wish you’d offer this with your calligraphy, printed and framed! Shared it with my sister in the Chicago area, who says thanks!

  6. Carmie

    No 1 that is what life is ….2 at times smiles flow … we smile even when we are not smiling in our souls, acceptance of our particular problem … but give smiles, listening and may interject encourage or share in their joy 3 like your souls have always been connected 4 … giving to others often and accepting when we feel we may not have received appreciation, that thank youn for giving, …..helping etc another, and reminding yourself to be that person and friend 5 comes often times naturall. 6 .??? 7 May think you have ha ha NEVER…..8 Possibilities…can I take this or shall I look after myself….can I offer a thought ..silence speaks volumes. 9 yes doors can open and paths. 10 think of yourself in that situation 12 is that what Jesus taught do to others as you would want to be treated no ty expected.

  7. Carol

    the list is a great opportunity to ‘measure’ myself against what I hope to be.