Joseph Attoh 
Christians must be intentional about cultivating spiritual disciplines if they are to grow into mature believers capable of transforming their world, Dr. Mrs. Ivy Essiam has said.
Speaking during the morning session of Day Two of the Pentecost Conference 2026 in Oberhausen, Germany, Dr. Essiam challenged believers to move beyond merely professing their faith and commit themselves to consistent spiritual practices, particularly the disciplined study of God’s Word.
Delivering a presentation on “Spiritual Disciplines” with a special emphasis on Bible study, she described spiritual maturity as a deliberate process that demands commitment, consistency and intentionality.
Drawing from 2 Peter 3:18, she urged Christians to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,” explaining that spiritual growth is essential for every believer seeking to possess their sphere for Christ.
According to her, spiritually mature believers are not easily swayed by false teachings, worldly philosophies or changing opinions because they are firmly rooted in God’s Word and secure in their identity in Christ.
“The spiritually mature person is not tossed to and fro by every form of teaching or philosophy or idea,” she noted. “They are firmly grounded in God’s Word and in who they are in Christ Jesus.”
To illustrate her point, Dr. Essiam compared the Christian life to that of an elite athlete. She observed that although athletes may possess exceptional talent, they still submit themselves to rigorous training in order to develop stamina, sharpen their abilities and achieve excellence.
“An athlete does not rely on talent alone,” she explained. “They train consistently, even when they don’t feel like it, because they are focused on the goal.”
She said believers should adopt the same mindset in their walk with God, intentionally engaging in spiritual disciplines that strengthen their faith and deepen their relationship with Christ.
Dr. Essiam also likened the believer to a farmer who carefully prepares the right environment for a seed to flourish. While the farmer cannot cause the seed to grow, he creates the conditions necessary for growth through proper care and cultivation.
“In the same way,” she explained, “spiritual disciplines position believers to grow in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.”
She emphasised that Bible study is not merely an intellectual exercise but a vital discipline that enables believers to know Christ more deeply, discern truth from error and develop the spiritual stamina needed to live victoriously in today’s world.
Dr. Essiam concluded by encouraging Christians to remain committed to spiritual disciplines, reminding them that lasting spiritual growth is the result of daily devotion, intentional practice and a life rooted in God’s Word.
PENT NEWS.
About The Author
Joseph Otsibah 
