Spiritual Maturity ... by Gina Sewell

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2-3 NIV)

Pure joy? Well, I don’t know about that. I have all of these things happening around me that I can’t control or deal with. It’s hard to have faith in these situations. But not only am I supposed to have faith, but I’m also supposed to enjoy it? That’s kind of hard to take in when you first read it.

But then James goes on to say, “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (James 1:4-5 NIV)

A time of testing… testing your faith so that you may grow in character. That’s different from being tempted. Temptation doesn’t come from God, but testing will bring you closer to God.

When I look back, I realize that the times in my life I felt closest to God were mostly in my worst times; at least times that started out that way. That’s when I would call out to Him and no matter how far away I thought He was, He would still answer my call.

He will pull us out of the pit, even when we dug the pit ourselves, and if we listen, the Holy Spirit will guide us and teach us what we need to learn from each experience.

When you get to the point where you can keep your faith, no matter the circumstances, because you know that God will sustain you, then you know that He has done a wonderful work within you by helping you become complete in Christ Jesus.

“He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. To this end, I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.” (Colossians 1:28-29 NIV)

Gina Sewell

Gina Sewell is a mom and grandma who lives in the Dallas, Texas area, where she enjoys cooking and spending time with her family. She loves to write about Jesus and encourage others. Gina shares her journey on her website: http://www.ginabartonsewell.wordpress.com