It Takes A Lifetime - Turning Points with God

Solid food belongs to those who are of full age . . . those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

Hebrews 5:14

It has been said that the new birth takes but a moment; spiritual maturity takes a lifetime.

Nowhere is this more clearly demonstrated than in the Parable of the Sower, in which Jesus warns His disciples about the many different ways God’s Word will be received. He says that when some people receive the Word, it is snatched away by the devil as soon as it enters their hearts. Others receive the Word with joy but fall away during a time of temptation. Still others hear the Word yet remain entangled in the cares of the world, making it impossible for them to bring any spiritual fruit to maturity. Finally, Jesus tells of the ones who, “having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience” (Luke 8:11-15).

Spiritual maturity is the result of a continual process of growth that takes time and patience. If we remain rooted in the Word and nourished through prayer and fellowship with the Lord, we will surely see our faith grow as never before.

Christians should move on to spiritual maturity. We must feast on the meat of God’s Word and put into practice the lessons we have learned. It’s the only way to grow up.

HADDON W. ROBINSON