STEPS TO MATURITY HILLSIDE HELPS-“Not as though I had already attained, either we already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:12-14) God’s plan is for believers to grow up. At the moment of spiritual regeneration, we are like infants requiring a special diet. It takes some time before a baby Christian can develop. The process starts with the sincere milk of the Word and leads to the meat of the Word. God’s design is for us to mature as Christians. It is tragic how many profess to be Christians yet are stunted in their growth. The Apostle Paul speaks of four simple steps that can aid in the growth process. First, there must be CONSIDERATION OF THE PROBLEM. We must understand that full maturity or perfection cannot be attained this side of heaven. This humbles us to admit we still have not fully apprehended or attained all that God has for us. Overconfidence comes through pride and will lead to a failure to grow. A second step is that of the CONCEALMENT OF OUR PAST. We learn from our failures and our successes of past experiences. Paul spent the first part of his life hating and persecuting Christians. He also served the Lord to become known as the world’s greatest church planter. He advised to forget those things which are behind, both the bad and the good. Looking back and living in your past will stunt your growth. A third step is THE CONCENTRATION ON THE PURSUIT. Paul said he was ever reaching forth to the things God had planned for his future ministry. We must be committed and be determined to follow the Lord through the thick and thin. Our commitment should be at a level where nothing keeps us from loving, worshipping, and serving our Lord. There are too many excuses we make when it comes to the daily discipline of reading the Word, praying, listening to God as He speaks through the Word, and following the Spirit’s lead. Our commitment must be fresh every day. We cannot allow the world’s schedule to dictate our quiet times or church attendance. How deep is your daily commitment to Christ? A fourth step Paul identifies is THE COMPLETION FOR THE PRIZE. God’s true saints persevere. They endure hardships and heartaches along the path of maturity. Because they are new creatures in Christ, they are ever being changed into the likeness and image of Christ. This often involves opposition, persecution, and very difficult trials along the way. Are you willing to go all the way with Jesus no matter how difficult things become. We are to lean forward like a runner as we finish our course in life. In starting a new year, I challenge each of you to review these steps Paul gave us in the matter of maturity. Reflect and re-align your priorities in such a way that you can grow up as a Christian. One good way to start is to find a Bible believing Christ centered church and commit to getting involved in a sweet fellowship with other Christians and learn to serve the Lord and others, instead of expecting everybody to serve you. I pray the real Christians will alter their current course and be certain to find the will of God and follow it faithfully. HAPPY NEW YEAR (Bro. Jerry McNeer) PLEASE SHARE
Posted on: Thu, 01 Jan 2015 12:35:14 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015