Do you ever wish you could escape adulthood and go back to a time long ago? As a child did you have anyone you trusted enough to yell, “Catch me!” as you jumped off the porch, knowing you would be safe? The trust-jump or trust-fall becomes more difficult as we “grow up” and face the reality of a cold and cruel world. Perhaps the problem is that we are too busy growing up and not busy enough growing in.

How could growing in change the way you grow up? Inner growth, through the power of the Spirit, will strengthen the muscles of your soul: trust, peace, gentleness…the qualities of Christ become yours. When you concentrate more on growing in you get a clearer image from God’s perspective: “Your eyes could see me as an embryo, but in your book all my days were already written; my days had been shaped before any of them existed.” (Psalm 139:16)

Growing in doesn’t happen on its own; just as growing bones need to be nourished, a growing soul must also seek to be stretched and fed. Similar to a doctor checkup, you may be nervous when it’s time for your soul checkup. “Examine me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. See if there is in me any hurtful way and lead me along the eternal way.” (Psalm 139:23-24) That type of exam will always come with suggestions to improve the health of your soul.

However, there is no need to fear doing anything He asks: “You have hemmed me in both behind and in front and laid your hand on me.” (Psalm 139:5) Picture that! Like a bubble wrap forcefield, He surrounds you and covers your head. He gives you every opportunity to jump off the porch, screaming, “Catch me, Daddy!” Will you take the leap of faith today? Enjoy your time in the air; you are safe with God.