…So that you will not be [spiritually] sluggish, but [will instead be] imitators of those who through faith [lean on God with absolute trust and confidence in Him and in His power] and by patient endurance [even when suffering] are [now] inheriting the promises. Hebrews 4:12 (AMP)
For most new believers, their first year is the most exciting as they grow and learn about Jesus. But as they continue on their faith journey, instead of growing up, many begin to head down into boring, stuffy, rule-based religion.
It’s unfortunate because growing up or constantly maturing in the Word is a wonderful way to live. It’s when we stay immature that we make unwise decisions or cause avoidable hurt. In fact, oftentimes, the pain we experience in our lives is because we haven’t matured in an area. For example, staying immature at communicating in your marriage can bring a lot of heartache. However, intentionally working to improve and grow in that area can take your relationship to a whole new level.
That’s what today’s verse is talking about. It’s saying those who diligently mature will experience all that’s available to them in Christ. That’s why the faster you mature, the quicker you move past living like a slave to your old beliefs and start enjoying the Christian life.
Perhaps you’re still learning how to deal with anger or how to pray with authority. That’s okay—life is a journey. Just keep going, because the more you discipline yourself to understand and apply God’s Word, the more you’ll begin to live like the heir you are.
The only way to enjoy the best God has for you is to keep growing up!