Marks of a Mature Christian

Chuckle: "Age makes you take twice as long to rest and half as long to get tired."

Quote: "Sow an act, reap a habit; Sow a habit, reap a character: Sow a character, reap a destiny." -- Reade

". . . let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity" (Hebrews 6:1 NIV). In 2 Peter 3:18 NIV, we are told to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

Do you see yourself as mature in Christ? Or, do you say with the apostle Paul, "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have been made perfect (mature), but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me" (Philippians 3:12 NIV). God brings about Spiritual growth in our lives if we are willing. A mature Christian:

Deals wisely with life's problems. "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking in anything" (James 1:2-4 NIV). The mature Christian knows problems and trials will come and prays. "Lord, I know you will use these difficult times to help me grow and mature." How about you? Do you recognize trials and problems in your life as opportunities to test your faith and to help you develop perseverance -- and become mature and complete?

Is sensitive to the needs of others. "My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism . . ."If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, 'Love your neighbor as yourself, you are doing right" (James 2:1, 8 NIV). Love your neighbor as yourself. Don't play favorites - don't look down on some people. Jesus said we are to be concerned for others be very sensitive to their needs.

Controls his/her tongue. "If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect (mature) man, able to keep his whole body in check" (James 3:2 NIV). If a person can control his tongue, he probably will control his/her whole body. To speak in a loving way that edifies others is a mark of maturity.

Is a Peacemaker. "What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you?" (James 4:1 NIV). Many of us are quarrelsome, easily offended, etc. We get our feelings hurt and we lash out at those who offended us. These reactions are a result of being selfishness or being judgmental.

Is Patient and Prayerful. "Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming" (James 5:7 NIV). ". . . The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective" (James 5:16b NIV). Four times in this chapter, James says: "be patient." But in our fast pace world of instant gratification we are prone to pray, "Lord teach me patience - and do it right now!" Seven times James says: "be prayerful." Prayers are answered in God's time."

In Summary, When you were born into God's kingdom by faith, you became an infant Christian, but you will need to grow and become mature. It's a matter of spiritual growth until you function in a mature way. This requires faithfulness in worship, Bible study, ministry to others, fellowship with other Christians, and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. God's plan is for you to grow to maturity. What's your plan?

Love, Jerry & Dotse