Spiritual Growth

 “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” 1 Peter 2:9

To be a light for those in spiritual darkness, we must be in the world but not of it. We should live in a way that showcases our good deeds and behavior, allowing those outside the faith to recognize that there is something “different” about us.

Early on in the days of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association a set of safeguards were developed to help retain and maintain the integrity of the ministry. Specific measures were agreed upon to help keep a strict level of accountability among the leadership to maximize the effectiveness of their outreach. Those ingredients came to be known as the “Modesto Manifesto” and it’s something we use at Calvary Aurora as well. Although it isn’t a formal document, the principles contained within it are valuable and useful, even if you are not serving Jesus in some form of spiritual leadership.

Greatness isn’t always about the spotlight. Sometimes it’s about staying humble and faithful, even in the quiet moments.

You don’t need a platform to share your beliefs—live your values, and let your life be the sermon.

A reaction is an automatic response to something, often driven by emotions, instincts, or external events. It’s something that happens without much thought or control. A choice, on the other hand, involves conscious decision-making. Courage is a choice because it requires you to decide to face fear rather than let it control you.