Some Signs of Christian Maturity

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world (John 16:33).

As Christians, we want to be growing in Christ and maturing in our faith. What are some signs that this is happening? Well, first of all, there's a deeper sense of peace. Things that would have once caused great anxiety or panic doesn't affect us like that anymore. We are able to focus on God, knowing that He has us, and we can depend on Him.

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you (Ephesians 4:32).

We forgive faster. We know that life is too short and too precious to let negative emotions ruin it. We know that we've made our own share of mistakes, and God has forgiven us, so how can we be hard on others. And we understand that unforgiveness hurts us more than anyone else.

Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing (2 Corinthians 7:9-10).

Instead of feeling condemnation, conviction comes in a gentler but deeper and more real way. We develop an intimate, personal relationship with our Lord, and that changes everything. We won't allow the enemy to burden us down with guilt, but when we make a mistake, we are quick to repent and vow not to repeat.

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost (Romans 15:13).

And joy abounds. We are freer, less tainted by worldly concerns and more aware of our blessings. We seek to grow closer to God and marvel at his presence in our lives. We want to surrender completely to Him and bring Him glory in all that we do. Remember, however, Christian maturity is a continuous journey and not a destination that we arrive at. We just need to keep traveling toward the throne.

_______________________