ESOCS Devotional 30 January 2026 – From Growth To Greatness
MEMORY VERSE: “And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.” Luke 2:40 NIV
TEXT: LUKE 2:36-40
Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; 37 and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
39 So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. 40 And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
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Luke 2:40 provides a glimpse into the early life of Jesus. Though the verse is simple, it is rich with meaning. It reveals that even Jesus the Son of God underwent a process of growth. He didn’t rush to greatness; He matured over time, physically, mentally, and spiritually. This verse reminds us that growth is God’s path to greatness. Many people desire greatness: success, influence, purpose. But true greatness in the kingdom of God doesn’t come instantly; it comes through growth, development, and preparation. Jesus’ life is our model. Though divine, He embraced the human process. Philippians 2:6–7 tells us that He “did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage… but made himself nothing.”
Growth is God’s design: God values the process of growth. Throughout Scripture, we see that He works in stages. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Like a seed planted in the ground, we must first take root before we bear fruit. Jesus grew “strong” and “wise.” Strength comes through resistance and perseverance; wisdom comes from learning, experience, and obedience. Proverbs 4:7 reminds us, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom.” As we seek to grow, we must pursue strength and wisdom not shortcuts.
God’s grace empowers growth: The verse also says, “… the grace of God was on him.” Growth is not something we achieve by striving alone; it is empowered by God’s grace. Titus 2:11–12 says, “For the grace of God has appeared … teaching us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives.” As you grow in your walk with God, His grace is present to guide, strengthen, and shape you. Even when you stumble, His grace lifts you up. Philippians 1:6 assures us that “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.”
Greatness follows faithful growth: Jesus didn’t begin His public ministry until age 30. For three decades, He grew quietly, out of the public eye. This teaches us that greatness often develops in hidden seasons. Don’t despise small beginnings (Zechariah 4:10). If God is working in you, He is preparing you for something greater than you can imagine. True greatness is not measured by status but by faithfulness. In Luke 2:52, we see a continuation: “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.” If Jesus grew through stages, so must we.
Reflections
- Are you embracing the season of growth in which God has placed you?
- Are you allowing His grace to shape your character, wisdom, and strength?
- Remember, God is more interested in who you are becoming than how fast you arrive.
Prayer
- Father, thank you for the example of Jesus who grew in strength, wisdom, and favour. Help me to embrace the process of growth in my own life. Let your grace guide and sustain me, as I become the person you’ve called me to be. Teach me patience, perseverance, and trust, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Further Reading: Isaiah 40:25–End; 50:4-End; Philip 3:17-21; 4:1-7
ESOCS Devotional 30 January 2026
