THEME SCRIPTURE: II PETER 1:2 -10
........... grace and peace be multiplied to you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord. According as his divine power has given to us all things that pertains to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that has called us to glory and virtue: whereby are given to us exceeding grace and promises: that by these you might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temprance; and to temprance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that you shall not be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacks this things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and has forgotten he was purged of his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if you do these things, you shall never fail.
(II Peter 1:2 - 10)
Don't confuse physical growth / maturity with spiritual maturity. Take, eat, imbibe the word of God on consistent basis that you may grow and become matured in the faith, waxing stronger and stronger in the Spirit.
Matured children of God are always consistent in their faith, walk in the Spirit and commitment to the LORD. The zeal to do the work of God at the slightest opportunity is always there. No doubt, it takes time and endurance to grow spiritually.
After giving your life to Christ by FAITH (and continuing in faith), you still have to grow and mature in Christ.
Add VIRTUE (or excellence / resolution), that is, do not be satisfied with second best / second-class christianity (or faith). Whatever you do for the LORD, do and give him your very best. Give your best because t he LORD JESUS is the best thing to ever happen to you, and He gave you His best via salvation. Remember, turn water into the best wine - a job well done. Excellent! (John 2:1 - 10). Attempt great things for the LORD and expect great things from Him.
Don't stop! Add KNOWLEDGE, that is, seeking to know / inquire / investigate. Knowledge is power. Don't just read the Bible, study it. Meditate on scripture truths. Share it with others. Be conversant with its content. The word of God is Spirit, truth and life. The LORD said in the scriptures, "If you continue in my word like this, then will you know the truth and the truth shall set you free." The truth on its own does not make one free, rather knowing the truth makes one free.
But continue in the things which you have heard and learned and has been assured of, knowing of whom you have learned them; and that from a child you have known the holy scriptures, which are able to make you wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by the 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 (and thoroughly) furnished unto all good works.(II Timothy 3:15 - 17)
Add TEMPRANCE (self control) as you grow gradually, for it takes time for spiritual maturity to speak for itself.
Add PATIENCE - quality that does not succumb to circumstances or situation, and is the opposite of dispodency. Satan may often want to dig up the old thought and sin. This often breeds downcasting. Don't surrender to adverse circumstances or dispondency but, rather, full of hope. Remember, "Christ in you the hope of glory." Patience / perseverance is essential christian character. If yo want to grow, have patience.
Add GODLINESS, that is, to be devoted to God and His purpose / will. It takes time to develop godliness to a matured stage, hence, don't panic yet be steadfast and consistent in your desire for it. In prayer, fasting, offering, endeavour to increase in this services and piety to God.
Add BROTHERLY KINDNESS, that is, sweetness to one another. Being tenderly disposed to sweetness to one another. By the way we love one another, they will see the light of Christ in us. Remember, "You are the light of the world........."
Add CHARITY / love. The love manifested by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit often take time to develop. Love that is devoid of ulterior / dubious motives and is without strain. Even when really offended, you still are able to demonstrate love.(I Corinthians 13).
Now you have an idea of what spiritual maturity is all about. Spiritual maturity requires consistence, persistence and faith to manifest its radiance and speak for itself. As you continue to increase in the knowledge of the word of God and walk in the Spirit, it's just a question of time before you realise how matured you become in the Spirit. It's worth praying about! True.
IN JESUS' NAME (AMEN).
Yours
Adekunle O. Majek'
H I A F E M
Of impact, quality and excellence
That's the Spirit!
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