We’ve got a lot of growing up to do… spiritually, that is. Peter urged us to “grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (II Peter 3:18). Consider six tools we can use to help us on our path to spiritual maturity:
1. Get into the Word. God’s word has been given to help us on our journey. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (II Tim. 3:16-17). “Perfect” means spiritually mature.
2. Work out your faith. Do what you know God wants you to do. “But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed” (James 1:25).
3. Send up your prayers. Jesus believed in prayer, too. “And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed” (Mark 1:35).
4. Upgrade your level of service. If you aim to do your best in every area of life, especially in your religious life, you will improve across the board. “And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain” (Matt. 5:41). “Just enough” ain’t enough.
5. Share the love. The sign of spiritual maturity is inexhaustible love for all. “And above all these things put on charity [love], which is the bond of perfectness” (Col. 3:14). Desire the best for each person you encounter – beginning with the person right in front of you.
6. Hang in there. A “crown of life” awaits (Rev. 2:10). It will be worth it all.
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