Growth

Growth

1 Corinthians 13

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“When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things.”

​​​​​​​1 Corinthians 13:11 (NASB)

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I think most people focus on the first part of the scripture. We have all heard those beautiful words spoken at many weddings. But I like to dig down into this scripture a little more.

I think being childlike and seeing things as a child does can be very good for us. To simplify our thinking as a child would do can really take some of the complication out of things.

But when we are talking about spiritual and eternal things, a maturing must take place. Changing our speaking, thinking and reasoning can be difficult, this kind of maturing is not easy or automatic. As adults we need to do away with the immature aspects that keep us from growing.

I know for myself what I say is the single most difficult self-control issue I have. We all need to be very careful about the words we speak. Once they are said (hostile words, crude talk, initiating arguments) we cannot get them back. We can apologize and be forgiven and do better. But those words will still have been said. This is an ongoing process for most of us. To practice the old adage – Think before you speak.

Changing my thinking is much more deliberate. Takes more concentrated effort and diligence (word of the year for me!) Changing our thinking is more about planning, not so much impulse control. I have to take the time to think about God. Think about what he is saying, slow down to hear what he is saying and see what he is showing me (I know for me I miss more of what he shows me, than what he says). I need to put my mind where it needs to be each day and then continually throughout the day.

I don’t know about you, but I can fall off my plans regarding thinking about God way too quickly.

Reasoning for me is the most natural of the maturities. Reasoning gets easier the more we use it. We need to consider the “why” and “how” of things. From Noah’s Ark to understanding God’s forgiveness (Isaiah 1:18) I will not always work out the answers and that is o.k.! It is more about the process and seeking God’s wisdom. His answers……

Prayer: Father, even my very ability to mature is designed by you. Thank you for investing in me. God, I never want to become complacent in my maturity. Holy Spirit continue your daily work in me. I want to be the person you want me to be. I want to be the daughter, mother, wife, sister and friend you created me to be. In Jesus name I pray, Amen