Measuring Spiritual Growth

Roaring Run Trail, Apollo, PA

One tree grew up but the other grew out.  One went toward the sky while the other went toward the water.  Both trees grew, but only one grew correctly. 

A tree is supposed to have downward roots and upward fruit (foliage).  The purpose of spiritual growth is not to make us extraordinary or weird.  It is to make us become what we're supposed to be in Christ. 

Just because you're extending yourself doesn't mean you're growing correctly.  The measurement of spiritual growth is not in externals (involvement, church attendance) alone.  Fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23) is a better  measurement.

Grow up or reach out -- which is easier?  Why?