Often maturity is determined by age. We hit the magic numbers like 18 or 21 or even 40 and poof, maturity should instantly be downloaded into the microchip embedded in our brains. We should now be able to make right choices for our life and live happily ever after. But, maturity does not come so easily nor are we instantly able to make right choices.
Being mature is defined by three things: 1) the ability to be brave enough to make a choice and not be frozen in place because of fear; and 2) the ability to understand the consequences of our choices and to walk through those consequences regardless of what they may be; 3) the ability to make God centered choices. This ability does not come easily. Many believe maturity comes with life experiences. The problem with this theory is that often we repeatedly make the same poor choices over and over again with the same disastrous results because it was never a God centered choice. We make decisions without ever consulting God; yet, we want and crave His blessing over it regardless of the choice. Please God bless this marriage although I know this person is not saved and does not walk with you. I want this job because it really is a great paying position. It's all about who you know or who knows you. Insanity is defined as doing the same thing over and over expecting a different result. Others feel maturity is determined by where you will find yourself in your career. I am mature because I am now considered an executive or I have achieved a certain level of success in my business. Still others believe it is determined by the amount of stuff we have accumulated. If I have the size or number of home(s), or a specific type of car, then I have arrived. I achieved these things because I am mature.
Maturity is not determined by any of those things. Maturity is wisdom from God. Wisdom is God given knowledge guided by God given understanding. Maturity is defined in the book of James 1:2-5 and 12 " Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him...A man who endures trials is blessed, because when he passes the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him." HCSB How is maturity achieved? It is achieved through the testing and trials of our faith. When we are able to respond correctly while walking through the trial, we are mature sons. In other words, when we are willing and obedient, then we will live in and under the blessings of God.
How do you know you have grown up? The ability to choose correctly. The ability to respond rightly in the midst of your trial. The ability to see God's purpose and destiny for your life and to walk in it. Hmm, I think I might like growing up after all.
- Determined Focus
Being mature is defined by three things: 1) the ability to be brave enough to make a choice and not be frozen in place because of fear; and 2) the ability to understand the consequences of our choices and to walk through those consequences regardless of what they may be; 3) the ability to make God centered choices. This ability does not come easily. Many believe maturity comes with life experiences. The problem with this theory is that often we repeatedly make the same poor choices over and over again with the same disastrous results because it was never a God centered choice. We make decisions without ever consulting God; yet, we want and crave His blessing over it regardless of the choice. Please God bless this marriage although I know this person is not saved and does not walk with you. I want this job because it really is a great paying position. It's all about who you know or who knows you. Insanity is defined as doing the same thing over and over expecting a different result. Others feel maturity is determined by where you will find yourself in your career. I am mature because I am now considered an executive or I have achieved a certain level of success in my business. Still others believe it is determined by the amount of stuff we have accumulated. If I have the size or number of home(s), or a specific type of car, then I have arrived. I achieved these things because I am mature.
Maturity is not determined by any of those things. Maturity is wisdom from God. Wisdom is God given knowledge guided by God given understanding. Maturity is defined in the book of James 1:2-5 and 12 " Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him...A man who endures trials is blessed, because when he passes the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him." HCSB How is maturity achieved? It is achieved through the testing and trials of our faith. When we are able to respond correctly while walking through the trial, we are mature sons. In other words, when we are willing and obedient, then we will live in and under the blessings of God.
How do you know you have grown up? The ability to choose correctly. The ability to respond rightly in the midst of your trial. The ability to see God's purpose and destiny for your life and to walk in it. Hmm, I think I might like growing up after all.
- Determined Focus
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