Growth
Traditional Meaning: In spiritual or religious contexts, growth often refers to becoming more righteous, obedient, or aligned with God’s commandments. It's sometimes viewed as the result of resisting sin, following rules, and increasing in spiritual knowledge or behavior.
Healing Metaphor Meaning: In the healing metaphor, growth represents the gradual process of recovery, rebuilding, and becoming more whole. It acknowledges that healing takes time, and growth includes setbacks, learning, and continued effort. It focuses more on direction and process than achievement or perfection.
Expanded Exploration
While traditional teachings often frame growth as becoming "better," this can sometimes unintentionally suggest that we’re not worthy until we reach a certain standard. The healing metaphor invites a more compassionate view—where growth is part of healing from life’s injuries, misdirections, or wounds.
Just as physical therapy involves daily effort to regain movement, spiritual growth is about engaging in ongoing practices—like prayer, community, study, and service—that move us forward. It's less about "arriving" and more about learning how to walk again with grace and purpose.
Scriptural Examples
One scripture that is often used to describe spiritual growth is found in the Book of Mormon, where it says the Savior invites us to come unto Him and be perfected *in Him*—not alone.
Original Text: “Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, and deny yourselves of all ungodliness…” (Moroni 10:32)
Reinterpreted Text: “Yea, come unto Christ, and allow healing to begin in Him. Let go of the harmful patterns that have caused injury, and walk with Him in growth.”
Personal Reflections
I've often struggled with the idea of needing to be “better” in order to feel worthy. But viewing growth as a process of healing has helped me be more patient with myself. It has allowed me to see that spiritual life isn’t a straight path—it’s more like a garden, slowly tended with care and intention, even during seasons of dormancy.
This view has helped me be less judgmental of others, too. When I see someone struggling, I try to ask: what pain might they be healing from? That question opens up space for understanding and gentleness rather than critique.
Applications
Instead of focusing on being perfect, focus on the next step. Think of spiritual practices—like prayer, scripture, worship, or helping others—not as ways to prove worth but as tools for healing. Recognize and celebrate small signs of growth, like greater patience, increased compassion, or softer self-talk.