Spiritual maturity

SPIRITUAL MATURITY

“… I had to talk as though you belonged to this world or as though you were infants in Christ.  I had to feed you with milk, not with solidfood, because you weren’t ready for anything stronger. And you still aren’t ready” (1 Corinthians 3:1-2 NLT).

Why did Paul say he had to speak to the city of Corinthian like spiritual infants and not spiritually mature people? He had to treat them as infants because they still behaved like children.

What is the evidence that they were spiritually immature? Look at what the Bible says:

“… I couldn’t talk to you as I would to spiritual people… for you are still controlled by your sinful nature” (1 Corinthians 3:1, 3 NLT).

So, what is the evidence that proves we are still controlled by our sinful nature? I am going to let apostle Paulexplain. Let’s read together:

“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God” (Galatians 5:19-21 NIV).

Now, what are some attitudes that go against our sinful nature? The Word describes this in the following way:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23 NIV).

Spiritual maturity is noticeable when our words and actions show the fruit of the Holy Spirit. It is easy to lose self-control and yield to our sinful nature, but only those who have a mature character can transmit the fruit of the Spirit.

Remember, we do not transmit what we say, but who we are. When you are a mature leader, you don’t have to endeavor to inspire people to make things happen in the ministry, at work, or at home. Do you know why? Because your maturity and characteris evident because of your fruit.

Many times, we get tired because we do not see the fruit in our ministry or business, but the key is found in first reaping the fruit of maturity and character to see the results in the areas we lead. Even though the Heavenly Father will always see us as His little children, He desires that we mature so that He can entrust us with more blessings.

“… I had to talk as though you belonged to this world or as though you were infants in Christ.  I had to feed you with milk, not with solidfood, because you weren’t ready for anything stronger. And you still aren’t ready” (1 Corinthians 3:1-2 NLT).

Think about it:

How much maturity do you believe you have?
Whatthings have caused you to remain as a spiritual infant?