What does it truly mean to be mature? Is it simply a matter of age, or is there something deeper that defines it?
In certain cultures in Africa, when a man asks for the hand of a woman in marriage, he is subjected to endurance rituals to ascertain his readiness to handle life’s responsibilities. In some instances, these rituals could include some strokes on the back with a whip, carrying heavy loads, circumcision or many others. If he is able to endure, then he is deemed man enough to marry. If not, his request is denied by the elders and family of the bride.
Now, the anatomy of a child is no different from that of an adult in that they feel pain in the same measure. Yet, an adult has built tolerance and pain threshold through life’s experiences such that it may seem as though he feels it less. This is the essence of maturity: Being able to overlook, ignore or tolerate certain degrees of discomfort, pain or temptation in order to have and access the greater goal.
God doesn’t use spiritual babies for great kingdom business. He doesn’t use people who haven’t been seasoned by life’s necessary experiences and sharpened by tough times. He doesn’t call those who feel entitled or complain at the slightest provocation, nor does He use individuals with no values or those who sell their conscience to the highest bidder. He doesn’t work with those who are easily satisfied, easily distracted, and without a sense of purpose. Instead, God seeks individuals who, though imperfect, are willing to be molded. He uses people like Moses, who may have made mistakes but are ready to live and die for a cause if necessary. These are people who have been in the refining furnace long enough to build character, master their emotions and align their will with God’s. They are guided by wisdom, willing to set aside pride and ego to sit, listen and learn. They pursue the presence of God rather than just His presents. And they are disciplined enough to wait at His feet for answers, no matter how long it takes.
Maturity is a continuous journey that transcends age and requires a humble, teachable spirit through every phase and season of life. It is marked by qualities such as wisdom, a visionary mindset, emotional control, responsibility, humility and interdependence. Strive to grow daily. Learn from your experiences. Treat others with respect and kindness, and continually refine your character. This is the journey of maturity—a path worth walking for the sake of greater purpose and eternal significance.
1 Corinthians 13:11 KJV – When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.