Christ died for us so we could be reconciled back to our maker. On several occasions He expressly stated that he came for the lost; this shows God's love to sinners-- His desire is that they will recognise who they really are, and run back in brokenness to where they truly belong. And John 1:9 wraps it up:

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse is from all unrighteousness.

To me, this the first step to spiritual growth. Then, the rest is being taken care of by Holyspirit -- submitting our will to His, and yielding to him per time.

Thanks for sharing @sc-n.
Kind regards.