“When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things” 1 Corinthians 13:11 (KJV).
There are certain characteristics associated with children in the natural realm, the same is true in the spiritual realm. Baby or infants can be distinguished from adults by these characteristics that are peculiar to babies.
Communication: Babies are known for ineffective way of communicating. This often creates confusion since there is no clarity in their communication. Sometimes their language may be insulting not knowing how to use words or the choice of words for different people. Our language, choice of words or manner of communication can portray our maturity or childishness; respect or disrespect, folly or wisdom, knowledge or ignorance. It can show how matured we are in controlling our tongues or choosing our words.
Understanding: Maturity can be shown by our level of understanding. Our ability to understand spiritual things, kingdom ways, principles and values shows our level of maturity. Children lack discernment; as a result, they are easily deceived due to their gullibility. Unfortunately, many Christians lack spiritual understanding. They easily fall prey to the devices of satan and his human agents as a result of their gullibility. It takes spiritual maturity to escape or overcome deception and the wicked devices of the devil. Maturity endows us with the wisdom to understand God’s word, the Holy Spirit’s leading and God’s ways. Children think only of what they stand to gain in every relationship. They do not think of responsibility. Life is not all about what we can gain or grab but equally about what we can give. “I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he said, it is more blessed to give than to receive” Acts 20:35 (NKJV).
Thoughts or thinking: For a child, the word revolves around him. Every one must give him attention. He sees himself as a liability to all not as an asset. He does not think of how to assist others but only think of everyone assisting him. He does not think he can do anything good, but an adult believes he can do so many things. He sees himself as a blessing to his world. Spiritual growth is putting off childish things and embracing wisdom, understanding and responsibility.
PRAYER: Oh Lord, help me to put off childish things, an act in maturity.
Rev. Vincent Diolu