Most of us begin our careers by filling entry-level positions. These are the lowest paying jobs in the workplace. After we've been around for a while and proven ourselves, we generally move up to jobs with increased responsibility and compensation. Good employees don't usually stay at the entry level very long.

Christians shouldn't stay at the "entry level" for long either. Paul rebuked the Galatians because they were still at the entry level in their spiritual lives. Their stubborn dependence on the Mosaic law kept them from growing. They had begun in the strength of the Holy Spirit but had regressed to trusting in their own good deeds rather than in Christ (Gal. 3:3).

The believers in Corinth had a similar problem. They were constantly quarreling, focusing on personalities and human accomplishments (1 Cor. 3). They were behaving like spiritual babies rather than mature believers (vv.1-2).

The problem still plagues us today. We take pride in our own efforts instead of what Christ has done for us. God isn't impressed by our good works.

Let's not stay at the entry level. Instead, let's grow in grace and serve the Lord from a heart of love. Relying on the Spirit, we can live in a way that honors Christ.  — David C. Egner