A Note from Hixon Frank
The Posture of Growth:
8 Humble Declarations That Grow My Faith
By Hixon Frank
Earlier this week, I received the most unique compliment I can remember about my preaching style.
A man told me, “I like the way you preach; it’s for people like me who have ADD.”
Not sure where he was going, I raised an eyebrow, and he added, “Because you don’t stay on one point too long.”
Fair enough. If you know me, you know I’m not a complicated guy. I like things to be straightforward and easily understood. That’s probably why I teach and preach the way I do—breaking down complex truths into something I can actually live out.
Last Sunday, I tried (as best as I could) to break down what it means to have a humble posture of faith by turning it into a set of simple, daily declarations. The world tells me to prove myself—to be strong, independent, and impressive. But God’s way is the opposite. The way up is down. The way forward begins by admitting I can’t do this alone. If I want to grow in faith, I need to take the posture of a student, not an expert. A follower, not a boss. A branch, not the vine.
Here are eight declarations that I’m working on living out. When I repeat them and apply them, they help me walk with greater humility and deeper, more authentic faith.
- “I Need Jesus Every Day”
Jesus said, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)
That’s not hyperbole—it’s truth. I can’t do anything of eternal significance without Him. I don’t just need Jesus on my worst days—I need Him every single day. When I wake up, when I go to work, when I face stress, temptation, or even success—I need His presence, His wisdom, and His strength. Humility means admitting I’m not enough on my own—and that’s a freeing, beautiful thing.
- “I’ll Pray When No One Is Watching”
Psalm 62:8 says, “Pour out your heart to Him at all times.”
Prayer is not a show—it’s a lifeline. I’ve learned that the most transformative prayers are the ones I pray when no one is around. That’s when I can be honest, vulnerable, and still. I try to carve out real, daily space to talk with God—not out of routine, but out of relationship. That space has changed me more than I can explain.
- “I Will Learn My Bible”
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” —Psalm 119:105
The Bible isn’t just a book I read; it’s a guide I live by. When life feels uncertain, I’ve found that Scripture steadies me. I used to ask God for direction without realizing how much direction He’d already given me in His Word. So now, I’m making it a point to study and know my Bible—not to impress others, but because I need it.
- “I Will Turn It Off”
“Be still and know that I am God.” —Psalm 46:10
Stillness doesn’t come easy for me. But if I’m always scrolling, talking, or rushing, I can’t hear God clearly. I’ve started intentionally turning things off—my phone, my podcasts, the noise—so I can sit quietly before Him. It’s uncomfortable at times, but that’s where I hear Him the clearest. God often meets me in the quiet places—if I’m willing to go there.
- “I Will Not Pretend in Worship”
“True worshipers will worship in Spirit and in truth.” —John 4:24
I have a favorite worship style—don’t we all? But I’ve realized worship isn’t about what I prefer. It’s about coming honestly before God. Whether it’s hymns, modern worship, bluegrass, or something in between—God wants my heart, not my playlist. Some days I come with joy; other days with tears. But every time I choose authenticity over performance, God shows up.
- “I Will Look for Friends Who Make Me Better”
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” —Proverbs 27:17
I become like the people I spend the most time with. Their habits, values, and attitudes shape mine. That’s why I need people in my life who challenge me to follow Jesus more closely. I’ve learned that faith grows best in relationships, not isolation. I’m more intentional now about surrounding myself with godly friends who sharpen my character and my convictions.
- “When I Drift, I Will Return Quickly”
“Come near to God, and He will come near to you.” —James 4:8
I’ve drifted before—through busyness, pride, even fear. Sometimes I didn’t even notice until I was way off course. But I’ve learned that the faster I come back to Jesus, the less damage is done. He doesn’t shame me; He restores me. Humility helps me see the drift sooner and return quicker. I don’t have to stay lost. His arms are always open.
- “Jesus Cannot Just Be an Accessory”
“I am the Vine; you are the branches…” —John 15:5
I’ve treated Jesus like an accessory before—like He was something I could just add to my schedule or sprinkle on top of my plans. But Jesus isn’t a side item—He’s the source. When I put Him at the center instead of the edges, everything changes. Humility reminds me I’m just the branch. He’s the vine. My one job? Stay connected.
Final Thoughts
Faith doesn’t grow in pride—it grows in humility. These declarations aren’t about adding pressure to my life or your life; they’re about simplifying my posture before God. Growth isn’t always flashy. Sometimes it’s quiet, slow, and hidden. But God is faithful to grow what’s surrendered.
I repeat these each morning as a reminder of how to walk humbly in my faith. I’ve begun to pray through them and determine to live them with God’s Grace. Maybe you can do the same. Or write your own. Either way, let’s keep growing… humbly.
Join us for the Multiply Conference — a meaningful gathering for leaders across our church family!
Whether you already serve, or are considering serving, in Kids, Students, Women’s, Men’s, Missions, Español, Adults, Guest Services, or Safety Team, this evening is designed with you in mind. Come experience a time of worship, prayer, encouragement, and equipping as we launch into a new year of ministry together.
We can’t wait to see you on Sunday, August 10, 2025, starting at 4:00pm!
Registration for childcare will close on Thursday, August 7 — so be sure to register today!
We’re looking forward to an incredible evening with you at Multiply! Register here.
This Sunday at Green Acres:
This Sunday we are thrilled to welcome my friend Dr. Jarrett Stephens as our guest preacher this Sunday at our Tyler Campus.
Dr. Stephens is a passionate communicator of God’s Word and currently serves as the Senior Pastor of Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to hear a powerful message.
We can’t wait to see you Sunday! Come to worship at Tyler or Flint at 9:30am or 11:00am and Español at 11:00 as we continue our study in the Gospel of Luke. We also have Connect Groups, which are essential for your growth in Christ, that meet at 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:00am. Come and join us!
Be blessed!
Hixon