A pastor friend of mine recently asked this question on his blog. All parents have heard this most familiar question whenever they pile the kids in the car and head out for a predetermined destination. As Christians, we should probably ask the same question of our journey with Jesus - "Are we there yet?" Have we matured in the faith? Are we growing to be more like Christ? Ephesians 4 says that we are to be equipped for ministry so we mature and grow to the full stature of Christ. Are we there yet?
Here are some additional questions my pastor friend asks that I want to pass along. (Thanks Shawn).
How will I know when I get there?
Where is there?
Do I know where I am going?
Do I have a destination in mind?
Have I prepared for the journey?
Did I forget to pack something?
Do I know where to get directions?
Do I trust the directions?
Am I willing to ask for and follow directions?
Have I started the journey?
Here is a link to an article I read this morning that also challenges me on spiritual growth. Enjoy.
http://www.crosswalk.com/spirituallife/11633550/page0/
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Thoughts on Spiritual Maturity
At Bellwood, we began a class study on Spiritual Maturity recently. I am consumed with this topic because I don't think spiritual health and maturity just happen. There are intentional disciplines that must be done on a consistent basis for results to be evidenced (fruit to bear).
I am currently reading a book entitled, "UnChristian - What a new generation thinks about Christianity". It is like holding a mirror up to anyone who claims to be a Christian. The authors surveyed people ages 18-41 to see how they perceived Christians - and it's not good. For the most part, Christians are viewed as being judgmental, too political, anti homosexual, and hypocritical.
In Ephesians 4, the apostle Paul says we are supposed to walk worthy of the calling to which we have been called. We have been called to love, not judge. So what is one way we can become more spiritually mature / healthy?
The book says on page 59 that "spirituality is not measured just by the number of sermons we hear, the piety of our lives, or the goodness of our actions. It's easy to miss the fact that so much of our lives is made up of the simple conversations and interactions we have with people - what is said in the hallway after church, the tone of voice someone uses, the parties you are invited to (or not), the genuineness of people's concern".
The way we react and respond to people and to their life circumstances is one measure of our spiritual maturity. Before we act or speak, may we bring every thought captive unto the obedience of Christ so that we are led by His Spirit. Maybe little by little, we will not only change the image that people have of Christians, but we ourselves will be more conformed to His image. Amen?
I am currently reading a book entitled, "UnChristian - What a new generation thinks about Christianity". It is like holding a mirror up to anyone who claims to be a Christian. The authors surveyed people ages 18-41 to see how they perceived Christians - and it's not good. For the most part, Christians are viewed as being judgmental, too political, anti homosexual, and hypocritical.
In Ephesians 4, the apostle Paul says we are supposed to walk worthy of the calling to which we have been called. We have been called to love, not judge. So what is one way we can become more spiritually mature / healthy?
The book says on page 59 that "spirituality is not measured just by the number of sermons we hear, the piety of our lives, or the goodness of our actions. It's easy to miss the fact that so much of our lives is made up of the simple conversations and interactions we have with people - what is said in the hallway after church, the tone of voice someone uses, the parties you are invited to (or not), the genuineness of people's concern".
The way we react and respond to people and to their life circumstances is one measure of our spiritual maturity. Before we act or speak, may we bring every thought captive unto the obedience of Christ so that we are led by His Spirit. Maybe little by little, we will not only change the image that people have of Christians, but we ourselves will be more conformed to His image. Amen?
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