It's Time to Grow Up

In every grade of education we are expected to learn something new. Mathematically we grow from learning addition, subtraction to geometry and calculus. We are expected to expand our vocabulary by adding complex words and using them in sentences. We are expected to use critical thinking to make decisions and choices that improve our quality of life. We don't have the same expectation in our faith and relationship with the Lord.

Many people who identify themselves as disciples of Christ still live at the elementary level of their faith. They do not know how to pray, study the Word, memorize scripture, or use the armor of God to win against satan. They do not know the books of the Bible, their writers, purpose, or the category of each book. They do not know the history of their faith and those responsible for giving us hope through the writing we live by. The church is spiritually immature and it is time to grow up.

Churchism has kept us weak and underprivileged. For centuries leaders have taught religious dogma, not doctrine, and failed to show us how to have a meaningful relationship with the Lord. Many believers were never discipled in their faith and do not live on a solid spiritual foundation. They live by the world's systems and when crisis comes, they falter in their faith, some believing the Lord has forgotten them. Spiritually immature believers struggle daily with the basic provisions of God's Word. Year after year nothing changes. Few grow stronger. Christ never becomes preeminent in our lives. The world continues to govern our thoughts, actions, and words.

There are three areas of maturity that must be addressed in this season. Thoughts. Believers must be encouraged to shift their thinking from the world to the kingdom. (Romans 12:1,2) Spiritual maturity in this areas means we govern our choices and decisions by the Word of God and think as Jesus would as we process information, thoughts, and ideas. Actions. We must act like believers. If people use our lives as a gauge on the power of our Lord, they would see us demonstrating His power and authority in everything we do. She should see a difference that challenges them to be set apart and to walk as children of light, not darkess. (I Peter 2:9) You cannot love the Lord and the world. You must choose. The love of Christ is the foundation of our actions. Word. Our speech must reflect a heart surrendered to the Lord. Our language must be pure, without condemnation, encouraging, and uplifting Our language must be spoken in faith, not doubt. People on the receiving end of our words should know we love Jesus and are committed to speaking His truth in love. (Ephesians 4:15).

The Lord is calling us to be separate from the world (II Corinthians 6:17). He needs us to grow up and demonstrate His image and likeness in the earth. The world needs to see and hear a difference. The church needs to see and hear a difference. Christ needs His children to know we are heirs, not slaves. It is time for us to grow up in our faith, our hope, and our love.

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen." - II Peter 3:18