Grow Towards Christian Maturity

In an article on “The secret formula for becoming an elite athlete;” it is written “The path to becoming an Olympian requires a mixture of important ingredients that may vary according to the sport and the individual athlete. Ultimately, for many, the path is navigated through deliberate play and involvement in various sports, developed through a commitment of deliberate practice, and reinforced by support, resources, motivation, and effort.”

It requires a commitment of deliberate practice, reinforced by support, resources, motivation, and effort to move from a mediocre athlete to a world class athlete. In the same way, as a born-again Christian, we need to commit time, effort, and discipline to become a strong and mature Christian. First Peter 2:2-3 exhorts us to grow towards Christian maturity. “Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.” Likewise, in 2 Peter 3:18 “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.”

There are many ways a Christian can grow towards Christian maturity. First and foremost, a Christian must exercise discipline to read God’s word, in a systematic way. You may begin by reading one book at a time daily. Joshua 1:8 “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”

As you read God’s Word, have an attitude of obedience. Deuteronomy 5:32-33 “So be careful to do what the Lord your God has commanded you; do not turn aside to the right or to the left. Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.”

As you grow in your Christian life with reading God’s word, hone the skill of interpretation so that you can know precisely and accurately what God would want us to learn. Exercise faith to believe and apply God’s word in every aspect of your life. By doing so, you would grow towards Christian maturity and success in your life.

You can learn about Bible interpretation by attending our church Sunday School. You will learn about interpretation in context so as to interpret God’s word correctly.

The other aspect of growing towards Christian maturity is your prayer life. In His earthly ministry, our Lord Jesus Christ spent much time in prayer. The Bible records for us many occasions in which Jesus prayed. It says, “In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and was praying there” (Mark 1:35); “But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray” (Luke 5:16).

Our Lord Jesus Christ spent much time in prayer. Prayer is a means of grace which keeps us close to God. Through prayer, we draw the inner strength to live a mature Christian life. We learn to wait upon the Lord and intercede for the needs of others, the church, and our own needs. We draw strength to live a godly Christian life and overcome temptation. One way that you may grow in maturity in prayer is to join our church weekly prayer meeting.

We will grow in Christian maturity through serving God faithfully. By serving with your heart, you exercise your faithfulness and spiritual gifts. Through service, it will make you a mature Christian. You can also grow in Christian maturity in your giving. Be faithful in your giving to support our local church and missionaries. God loves a cheerful giver. You exercise faith and faithfulness in your giving.

You can grow in Christian maturity by being His witness. Be exemplary in your conduct.  People often see our character and conduct more than our speech. There is a saying that says action speaks louder than words. Be hardworking, be it as a student, a homemaker, a worker or as an entrepreneur. Be exemplary in church, home, and work.

Get involved in evangelistic work through our gospel meetings. Pray and invite your friends and loved ones to our gospel meet. Seize the opportunity to share your faith and the gospel. By being involved, you would grow in your spiritual maturity.

Let us aspire to grow our Christian life towards maturity. God will then surely bless your life, so that you live an abundant and victorious Christian life. May God help us to grow and mature in every aspect of our Christian life. May God grant you success as you aspire to grow in maturity in your Christian life!