Understanding Faith, Correction, and Spiritual Growth in Everyday Life
Have you ever wondered how faith really grows in our lives? The Bible gives us a clear answer: “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Simply put, the more we listen to God’s message—over and over—the more our faith increases. It’s like feeding our spirit with the truth, letting it sink in deep. If you want faith to come alive in your heart, keep hearing the Word, keep letting it echo in your mind and spirit. Don’t just hear it once; let it play on repeat!
Let’s make this real by looking at Romans 8. The first few verses (Rom. 8:1-4, AMP) explain how Jesus came to set us free from the old rules that used to condemn us. Back then, people tried to follow the law with their own strength, but it was impossible. So what did God do? He sent Jesus, who looked just like us, to take on the problem of sin. Now, sin can’t keep us from our purpose—when we mess up, we can ask for forgiveness, and God sees us as righteous. God isn’t obsessed with our mistakes; He’s more interested in helping us overcome whatever holds us back—like our flesh, our old habits, and ways of thinking.
But here’s what the devil tries to do: he wants you to feel condemned, so you’ll stop listening to God. Don’t fall for that trick! Keep your ears open to God’s Word.
Next, in Romans 8:5-7, the Bible talks about two ways of thinking: the mind of flesh and the mind of the Spirit. The “flesh” mind relies on feelings and human reasoning without God. It resists God’s way and gets stuck on “what makes sense” instead of what’s true. Our subconscious mind is filled with years of thoughts, feelings, and even some junk. It tries to build walls (strongholds) that block us from what God has for us. Sometimes, it tricks us into thinking there’s a better way than God’s way! But here’s the truth: you can’t be full of faith and stuck in “figuring out” at the same time. When God reveals something to your heart, you don’t have to work out all the details—just follow His Spirit.
Now, let’s talk about discipline and correction. These aren’t punishments—they’re how God helps us grow and reach our destiny. The Bible says in Hebrews 12:11 that God corrects us because He loves us and wants us to reach our full potential. Proverbs 3:13 adds, “Don’t despise God’s discipline; don’t get tired of His correction.” It’s easy to want to skip correction, but it’s actually the way God keeps us on track. It helps us let go of old attitudes and trust Him more. Correction doesn’t always feel good, but it’s for our benefit—it teaches us how to live by the Spirit instead of our old, fleshly ways.
Rebuke and correction are a blessing, even if they don’t feel great in the moment. Proverbs 10:17 tells us that receiving correction secures our future and can help others, too. The devil will try to use your subconscious mind—old feelings, doubts, and memories—to get you off track. But you can reset your focus on God’s Spirit and “renew your mind” by setting your thoughts on higher things.
Let’s see what Jesus taught in Matthew 13. He used stories (parables) to teach spiritual truths, like the story of seeds falling on different soils. Sometimes people heard Him with their natural senses but couldn’t understand—because their minds were stuck in old patterns. Jesus wanted to unlock their spiritual senses so they could see the reality of God’s kingdom. When we focus on just our natural reasoning, we miss what God is saying. But when we learn to listen with our spirit, we start to “get it”—we see that God’s way is better.
We are more than conquerors through Christ! That means we can overcome old thoughts and feelings that try to hold us back. 1 John 2:20 says we have an anointing—a special power from God—that teaches us the truth. You already have what you need to defeat negative thoughts and feelings that go against God’s Word. 2 Corinthians 10:5 encourages us to “cast down imaginations” and bring every thought into line with Christ. So, let’s “take out the trash”—let go of anything in your mind that’s not from God.
On a personal note, maybe you grew up hearing about salvation but never learned about the power of the Holy Spirit. Sometimes God sends people—a pastor, teacher, or prophet—to help unlock what He’s put in us. They labor over us, teaching and guiding, so the anointing is formed in us. It’s normal to struggle at times with old thoughts or fears, but with God’s help and good leaders, we can break through and step into our destiny.
Sometimes, God has to teach us again and again, just like the Apostle Paul labored over the Galatians (Galatians 4:19). Don’t get discouraged if it takes time—stay in your grace, stay in position, and don’t let your old subconscious thoughts talk you out of your blessing.
Finally, Psalms 133 shows us the power of unity: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity… there He commands the blessing.” When we come together, united in faith and purpose, God releases His blessing. So let’s set our minds on things above, let’s get in unity, and let’s keep hearing the Word until faith rises strong in us.
Amen! Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. Keep listening, keep learning, and keep growing in unity. That’s where the blessing is!
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 