A Reliable Pattern for Spiritual Growth

I see this all over the Scripture.  I originally ran across this concept in a conference where Dallas Willard was teaching and have tweaked it some since then.  But I do see it all over Scripture.

Here's the pattern for spiritual growth:  soaked in the Word, active in the disciplines, faithfully enduring trials (whether large like cancer or small like traffic).

Consider this passage from 1 Timothy 4:6-10:

If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed. (v.6)  Soaked in the Word.

Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths.  Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come (v.7-8).  Active in the disciplines.

The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance.  For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. (v.9-10).  Faithfully enduring trials (toil, strive - these are words we love, right?).

So in which are you lacking?  What will you do to address it?

But that's just me thinking thoughts...