Maturity

It has taken me a lifetime to get into the shape I’m in. Round is a shape, and getting rounder is so easy; in fact it is effortless. My wife Susie and I knew it was time for each of us to take some action to improve our shape (literally it was time to start moving and stop being a couch potato). Thus we have joined a local heath club to start getting some exercise.  

But was it really necessary to get a family membership? My teenage kids hardly need to workout; I mean you could not describe their lifetime shape as “round.” After just two days of going to the gym I’m glad I did.

The first day at the gym I went by myself. I think I could keep myself motivated for awhile, but I know it wouldn’t be long until I’d give up on the whole thing. I’m sure that Susie would keep me motivated even longer, but let’s be honest: neither of us have ever been the “workout type.” Today I went to the gym with my daughter. My attitude was completely different. Not only did I enjoy her company, but watching her run and her encouraging words inspired me to do more than I had done the day before. 

It occurred to me that’s how it is supposed to be.

Until we're all moving rhythmically and easily with each other . . . fully mature adults, fully developed within and without, fully alive like Christ. 

Ephesians 4:13 MsgB

The goal of our faith in Christ is maturity, to live like Jesus. One thing I’ve learned, both in day to day life and as a believer, getting older does not necessarily make you mature. Jesus call us to “make disciples” not converts (see Matthew 28:19-20). Years have passed since I first accepted Christ as my savior, but maturity did not come by the passing of time. Maturity came by being a “doer of the work;” and with “perseverance” (see James 1:2-4 NIV, 25 KJV). Ultimately, however, I did not learn these things on my own. I grew with the help of the mature.

When it comes to fitness my teenage kids are more mature than I am. My kids will keep me going when I want to quit my morning workouts. Likewise you and I are called to encourage others, and especially new believers, to not give up but keep pressing on to maturity.