Steps to Maturity

            Maturity is a fundamental part of each individual’s life.  For a Christian, it is especially important because maturity produces the foundation on which we build an understanding of God’s Word and His principles.  We must first realize the validity of 2 Timothy 3:16-17, which reads,

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”

            The first step that is mentioned in this verse is that of understanding doctrine.  We must realize the doctrinal principles that God has established for each mature person.  These principles are those of design, authority, responsibility, ownership, suffering, freedom, and success.  Without them, we cannot begin to develop maturity.  Only as we take the first step in applying these principles to our lives will we be able to take the next step in maturing growth.

            That next step is reproof.  God designed His Word to convict us of different key relationships in our life, but these convictions can only appear through the understanding of the foundational principles.  Then we can evaluate our relationships with our self, God, family, and friends, and the concerns of the future, dating, finances, and health, to determine what areas we are focusing too much on, and turning these areas over to the Lord.  Reproof allows us to see how violating the established principles cause conviction.

            Once we see the conflicts in key relationships, we can follow the third step of correcting these conflicts.  To accomplish this correction, we have responsible steps of action to take.  These steps involve studying God’s Word for answers, insight, and even more detailed steps for removing the conflicts in our life.

            The final step to a mature life is reinforcing the basic steps that one learns to follow.  We can do this by searching the Bible for Scripture that demonstrates the steps we took to overcome our sin, and the positive results that occurred.  When we see for ourself the areas we have conquered through God’s grace, it will bring a renewed excitement and joy to live a stronger life for the Lord.