Your Spiritual Growth Considerations Page

The most important question anyone could answer is, “How do I know truth?” We are each personally responsible for that question, like many other important questions no one can answer it for us. There are three basic truthviews, spiritual, natural, or relative. Spiritual growth has been helping people for many centuries, with knowledge and religious traditions to live better.

It seems that all religions can be both welcoming and boundary-forming. They may invite anyone to participate or convert while still maintaining distinct beliefs, practices, and standards. Respectful comparison does not require treating all traditions as identical, nor does it require pressuring others to agree.

According to Pew Research and Statista, over 70% of the entire world population identifies with one of the big four religions; Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. It’s my understanding that Taoism believes in a spiritual world but prefers to be considered a philosophy. https://www.statista.com/chart/25572/worlds-largest-religious-groups-over-time/

Many people have questions about the spiritual world. As many other questions depend on whether we believe in a spiritual world. Questions like, “How did the universe begin?” “What is the meaning of life?” “What am I going to do with my life?” “How do I become the person I want to be?”

This page includes…

What is Spiritual Growth?
Why is Spiritual Growth Important?
What is a Spiritual Growth Plan?
Evidence for a spiritual world
- Existence
- Fine Tuning
- Beauty
- Humans
- Morality
- Quantum Physics
Why I believe in Christianity
- Evidence the Bible is Inspired by God
- Evidence for Jesus Being the Son of God
- Bible Verses that Science Aligns With
Quick notes about the big four religions and Eastern philosophies

What is Spiritual Growth?

Spiritual growth is improving one or more areas of your knowledge, health, or meaning about the spiritual world.

Thankfully, we now have some very helpful sacred historical documents about the spirit world that continue to help people all around the world.

Religion offers knowledge and traditions that helps people to live and love well, according to specific spiritual and moral traditions. I believe spiritual growth is more about continuous learning, improving, and helping people, and not about being perfect or better than anyone.

You do not have to settle every spiritual question today. But it may be worth asking what you are living for, what you are becoming, and whether your daily practices are forming the kind of person you want to be. Explore spiritual evidence with honesty, test what you learn through thoughtful reflection and lived practice. Remain open to truths that challenge your assumptions.

Why is Spiritual Growth Important?

Many people believe the spiritual world is the foundation of life. That we are a spiritual being, first and foremost, and we have an eternal soul, all in a physical body. Many people also believe that we have spiritual allies and adversaries that can inspire us and help us, or tempt us and trip us.

There seems to be some basic evidence of a spiritual world with spiritual allies and adversaries. Consider the fact that people can have “out of character” thoughts, feelings, and experiences. These are thoughts or feelings that are not usual, or not in alignment with their character or personality. They include experiences where they were unusually calm and clear in a chaotic situation. Or they were unusually fearful, angry, or prideful in an otherwise normal situation. They could include an experience of a “coincidence” that was just too coincidental, like impossible.

The more we know and understand the spiritual world, the more we can build wisdom around it. This allows us to make better choices and resist temptations. It also allows us to better help and encourage the people we love and those around us who depend on us.

What is a Spiritual Growth Plan?

A Spiritual Growth Plan is recorded information about a spiritual situation and desire, including actions necessary to achieve the desire.

A Spiritual Growth Plan could include desires and actions necessary to better understand a religion, strengthen your faith, or improve spiritual practices. Common spiritual practices include seeking truth and wisdom, building relationships, prayer, giving, and meditation.

Evidence for a Spiritual World

Existence

Science claims to have proven the universe had a beginning, which means there are only two options, either intelligent design by a Creator, or accidental spontaneous existence. It is reasonable to accept that we cannot create something from nothing. Unless your definition of “nothing” smuggles in some actual physical particles to start with, which is technically not nothing… In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth (Genesis 1:1).

Fine Tuning

Consider how the earth is carefully placed in the Milky Way Galaxy so we have a clear view of the universe, to study it. Science claims the earth is placed in an almost perfect distance from the sun to support advanced life forms. A little bit closer or farther away and it would be too hot or too cold. It has also noted the exact distance from the earth’s core where gravity starts. If gravity started a little bit further away or a little bit closer, the earth would have not enough pressure or too much pressure.

Beauty

Consider how beauty is not necessary for survival, but it speaks to our soul. While beauty can be useful in attracting a mate to reproduce, there are many species reproducing well that are not necessarily beautiful, at least not in the visual sense. It could be argued that all advanced living organisms are beautiful just considering their complex biological workings, like innate intelligence or unusual physical traits.

Consider the Weaver Bird nests, the Puffer Fish sand sculptures, beaver dams, spider webs, the Narwhal, moles (especially the Star-Nosed mole), or the cave dwelling Glow Worms of New Zealand. These are just a few examples of evidence of intelligent design, as these creatures have beautiful or weird traits that can be argued are not necessary for their survival… The invisible things of Him for the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead; so they are without excuse (Romans 1:20).

Beauty awakens the heart, stirs creativity, deepens love and meaning, and moves us beyond biology. Consider the many beautiful people, flowers, and birds (especially the peacock). What about the sun and how it has been giving the earth consistent energy for life, for billions of years. Think about how the earth is carefully placed to receive just the right amount of heat from the sun. Check out the beautiful photos of the universe by the Hubble telescope… The heavens declare the glory of God (Psalm 19:1).

Humans

It is interesting that our physical bodies are made from elements of the earth, and is mostly space and energy. We are over 90% oxygen, carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen… God made the first human from dust of the earth and breathed life into him (Gen 2:7).

If we were to look into a human cell we would find our DNA. In the DNA we would find molecules. Inside the molecules are atoms and mostly space, consisting of tiny constantly moving particles. These particles include a nucleus with a proton and neutron, that are being circled by moving electrons. So, at the atomic level in the human body, we are mostly space and energy.

Consider the theory of evolution, and how living organisms evolved mainly for survival of their species. However, evolving from a self-replicating single cell organism to male and female organisms that need each other to reproduce is not survival oriented.

Many people believe it is no accident that humans have a deep awareness, or consciousness. Consider how humans have the amazing intellect to think deeply about the future and different possibilities, and to think deeply about the past and learn lessons…. The Bible says that God (Holy Triune) created humans in “our” image (Genesis 1:26-27). God made us as a triune being, as a spirit, with a soul, in a body (1 Thess 5:23). With a triune spirit, of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Tim 1:7).

Morality

It’s no wonder original sin is pride, as we are made in the image of God (Gen 1:27). Pride was the temptation that convinced Eve to take that first bite of the forbidden fruit, to be as gods, and passed it to Adam, who also took a bite (Gen 3:4-7). Being made in God’s image explains why people have such an internal desire for fairness. It also helps to understand why anger is such a strong temptation. However, we can be calm and clear in the face of unfairness or disrespect. That is the power of spiritual growth.

Why do people even have values and beliefs that sometimes go against survival instincts? Many people have sacrificed their lives to support other people, and even to save strangers they don’t even know. Why do people have this idea that we have individual rights that no other person can take away? Such rights can only come from a Higher Power.

Quantum Physics

The science of quantum physics has some very interesting theories that could be considered as evidence there is an unseen spirit world. Consider the theories of…

Unpredictability – Particles in motion should have a predictable path, but they can actually divert from their present direction for no known reason.

Tunneling – Particles can travel through solid barriers.

Entanglement – Particles can have an unseen connection with other particles despite a long physical distance of separation.

Decoherence – Physical elements in the earth have active particles that lose their live vibrating state (coherence) when the elements are put through a manufacturing process.

The Unified Field – Every living object with an energy field is connected to the universe by a larger ‘Unified’ energy field.

Consider that our bodies are mostly space and energy. If we were to look into a human cell we would find our DNA. If we looked into the DNA we would find molecules. If we look into the molecules we find atoms. If we look into the atoms we find mostly space, consisting of tiny constantly moving particles. These particles include protons, neutrons, and electrons. So, at the atomic level in the human body, we are mostly space and energy.

Why I Believe in Christianity

The Bible is a credible historical document, with the New Testament Gospels being eyewitness reports of the supernatural life of Jesus, his ministry, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension into heaven. It also has many verses that provide very helpful principles or truths about human biology, psychology, sociology, and how the world works. Plus, it includes many stories, inspiring and as warnings, which provide helpful insights to live better.

There are also many Bible verses that were written over a thousand years ago, that modern science has supported and provided evidence for. Of course that doesn’t mean science supports every Bible verse, or the entire Bible. It means, modern science has supported and provided evidence for many Bible verses. Which any reasonable person would agree, it is compelling. I didn’t say it’s overwhelmingly compelling, or undeniably compelling, I said it is compelling, which should be enough to take it seriously.

I believe the Bible is our greatest book, and should be the most important book to any Christian. With that said, many other books provide very helpful information. As Jesus prayed the High Priestly Prayer (John 17) he said, Sanctify them through your word; your word is truth (John 17:17). I believe there are two categories of God’s word… the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16), and natural laws that govern the earth… Since God spoke the universe into existence (Genesis 1).

I offer the idea that when science is done well, and follows the scientific method, it basically reveals God’s natural laws… God is over all, through all, and in all (Eph 4:6). Also, when people spend years in a profession or studying a topic, their experience will also reveal God’s natural laws. With that in mind, the other books on this website could be argued as based on God’s natural laws.

Core Bible Verses

You can get the book, Core Bible Verses, that includes over 10 years of my Bible Study notes. It has many helpful verses in every chapter. Chapters include; A Brief Summary of Christianity; 12 Core Bible Verses; Four Core Virtues; 10 Core Christian Beliefs; Four Core Skills; Meaning Building; Faith Building; Christian Wisdom Guide; Christian Daily Prayer; Encouraging Bible Verses; A Summary of the Life of Jesus; and Core Bible Characters.

There is also the book, Firm Faith, which is a summary of Core Bible Verses, in a smaller sized book.

Evidence the Bible is Inspired by God

Foundational evidence for Bible credibility, if you search a free digital King James Version (KJV) Bible for the phrase; “saith the Lord,” you will get 854 matches/verses. If you search it for the phrase; “the Lord said,” you will get 219 matches/verses… All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness (2 Tim 3:16).

Evidence for Jesus Being the Son of God

Foundational evidence for Jesus being our Lord and Savior includes the fact that He claimed to be the Son of God (Jn 10:36). That was why many religious leaders wanted to kill him, as the Old Testament says something about no one can see the face of God. But not only did Jesus claim to be the Son of God, disciples of Jesus claimed it (Mk 1:1 & Jn 1:49), they heard God claim it from heaven (Mt 3:17 & 17:5, Mk 1:11 & 9:7), an angel claimed it (Lk 1:35), and even demons Jesus rebuked claimed it (Mt 8:29, Mk 3:11 & 5:7, Lk 4:41 & 8:28). It seems that the devil knew it, but he offered it as a question, to tempt Jesus with doubt about his own identity (Mt 4:3 & 4:6). It seems many people these days are tempted to doubt their identity.

Bible Verses that Science Has Supported

Power in Our Words – Our words can harm or heal (Pro 12:18), and even have the power of death and life (Pro 18:21). God’s word is our sword of the Spirit (Eph 6:17 & Mt 4).

Power of Faith – This is a challenging one, because the Bible often gives pieces of principles in different verses. What you ask in prayer, and believe you have received it, it will be yours (Mk 11:24). However, we may not get what we ask for, if we ask for our desires of the flesh (Jas 4:3). Or we might have sin that separates us from God (Isa 59:2). Our works reveal our faith (Jas 2:18). If I have the power of faith to move mountains but don’t have love, I don’t have anything (1 Cor 13:2).

Love is Transformational – Hatred stirs strife, but love covers offenses (Pro 10:12). Love God and love people, on these commands depend all the law (Mt 22:37-40).

Growth Mindset – I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead (Php 3:13).

Positive Attitude – A joyful heart is good medicine (Pro 17:22).

Emotional Intelligence – Treat people as you want to be treated – “The Golden Rule” (Mt 7:12). Be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger (Jas 1:19). Because being slow to anger gives understanding (Pro 14:29). Speak the truth in love (Eph 4:15). Because a soft answer turns away anger, but a harsh word stirs it up (Pro 15:1). Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep (Ro 12:15).

Habits – With an honest and good heart, hear the word, keep it, and bear fruit with patience (Lk 8:15).

Goals – Look forward, ponder your path and establish your ways. Don’t turn to the right or left, and don’t do evil (Pro 4:25-27).

The earth is circular (Isa 40:22).

Rivers flow to the sea (Ecc 1:7).

There are many more, there are just a few of the more important ones.

Notes About the Big Four Religions

Similarities in the big four religions include the belief that we all have a selfish nature, which can result in suffering. But we still desire to be in relationship with other people, which means we must work to overcome our selfish nature, with some spiritual growth.

All the major religions claim virtues of love, respect, wisdom, truth, integrity, forgiveness, and justice. However, they obviously have very different beliefs about how to live out those virtues. They also have different beliefs about how the universe began and what happens to us when we die.

They also believe in the spiritual practices of continuous learning about their religion, relationships with other believers, giving, meditation, fasting, prayer and worship. Of course, their beliefs in how to define, and follow through with these practices can be very different.

There are also the philosophies of Confucius, and Taoism, which are primarily practiced in China. It’s my understanding that most Chinese do not consider these as religions, but prefer to reference them as philosophies. These philosophies also believe our human nature is selfish and needs some work, so we can live in harmony with other people. Taoism believes in a spiritual world.

Science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind (Albert Einstein)

Bonus Resource Idea

If you are a Christian and are interested in other Christian resources or church resources for your spiritual growth, check the blog post, Christian Resources.

If you have not yet read the Bible, consider reading a Study Bible. Some of my favorites include the English Standard Version (ESV) Study Bible that has notes that explain hard to understand verses and helpful articles. There is also the Apologetics Study Bible that includes articles to help understand and defend the Christian faith.