Spiritual Maturity
How to be Spiritually Mature. (James 1:1-8).
A new born baby is wonderful; the baby will grow up to be a mature adult and contribute to society. The book of James gives instructions how to reach spiritual maturity.
- See your trials as opportunities. v1-3.
How could trials possibly be considered ‘pure joy’ as James suggests? Our normal reaction is to run away or complain. However, he does not mean enjoy the pain! He wants us to focus on the spiritual maturity that will be brought about by the trials.
- Persevere through them. v4.
Don’t seek to avoid trials, don’t run away. Face them with joy and perseverance.
Facing trials with exercising faith makes you stronger. Hunting dogs rely on their sense of smell, not their eyesight. A tree is strengthened by the unseen wind, causing the roots to go down deep. In a similar way, persevere in your trials with faith. Aim to persevere to completion. It will mature you spiritually.
- Ask God for wisdom. v5-8.
What you don’t understanding, James continues, ask God for wisdom. Solomon asked for wisdom and received it far beyond what he could imagination. Pray for wisdom in your trials and find joy in solving and persevering through them. God is generous and impartial. He will answer your prayer even if you are not Solomon.
- Ask in faith. v5-8.
Doubt is the enemy of your soul. Satan tempts, “Will God really give you wisdom?” Note that the apporopriate faith is not to demand what we want (i.e., relief from the trial!). It is to trust that God will communicate all that is needed. Wisdom leads us to understanding the trial and how to respond to it.
You are on the path to spiritual maturity.
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Maturity – A Poem
A new-born baby is delicate and lovely; they are to be protected.
A toddler is awkward and cute; they are to be assisted.
A child is curious and caring; they are to be taught.
A teenager is bold and daring; they are to be guided.
An adult is awesome and glorious; they are to contribute to a better world.
© September 2026, John Rhodes