Maturity

Paul writes in Romans 1 "First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world."

As I read these words I couldn't help but think about myself. Is this what others would say about my faith? At times yes, other times no. I think it would be amazing if our church was reported all over the world as having such faith. How about yours? Faith is always a challenge isn't it? Are you challenged in your faith every day? I know I am. Whatever circumstance we may face it should be our faith that holds us strong. Ephesians 4 "It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ." I believe that this is the faith that Paul was talking about. He was called by God - to prepare God's people - YOU - so that the church will reach unity in the faith. I love what ultimately should occure in our lives - that we become mature. Too many people do not want to grow up in their faith. They figure they got enough Jesus in their life. They know of him and that's enough to get to heaven. But as you look further wouldn't you just love to attain to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ? We miss out on so much of what God has for us. We miss out on miracles in our life and a deep personal relationship with Jesus, our friend.

I challenge myself and you today to pray about this. Ask the Lord to take you to that next step of faith and relationship with him. Paul longed to visit the church so that he could impart some spiritual gift to make them strong - AND "THAT YOU AND I MAY BE MUTUALLY ENCOURAGED BY EACH OTHER'S FAITH." Grow up in your faith, encourage one another in the faith, talk with one another about your relationship with Jesus. I desire to continue to mature in my faith and God continues to give me opportunity to do this.

I am so happy that Jesus is my friend. Walk with me this day Lord Jesus and fill me with an overflowing of your love and power to others. Continue to mature me in my faith so that I may also encourage others.