Maturity Is For The Asking

By Willa Johnson

It’s interesting that the Bible reveals very little about Jesus Christ’s growing up years. We read he taught his elders in the temple when he was 12 years old and the next reference to his age is 30.

Most of us who have passed through the teen years know they can be difficult…very difficult; not only for the teen but for the parents. Since we are told that Christ was perfect…and I accept that…it would have been nice to have some actual teaching as to how he handled various situations. Instead we are given a brief verse in Luke 2:52 that states: Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men. We know from that last phrase he was exemplary as he matured.

For those of us who were anything but exemplary teenagers, challenging our parents every step of the way toward our maturity, it’s hard to realize how someone could be so good. More than one comedian has quipped that, “If you haven’t matured by age 50, it’s too late.” I disagree. Some of us finally decide that life is much easier when we abide by the Biblical teachings rather then doing things “our way.” With that decision, we begin to mature, no matter how long it takes or how old we are.

Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, is another Bible character I love. Without committing any sin, he fell into hard times because of his brothers’ treatment and then lying by Potiphar’s wife. Later, when he forgave his brothers because he realized all that happened had been according to God’s plan, we see a picture of Christ who stands ready to forgive us of all our sins.

Because of technology today, young people are exposed to every sort of sin and corruption known to man. It is a different world from the one I experienced while growing up. However, we have a promise that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today, yes and forever.” Hebrews 13:8

No matter how we are tempted, He is our surefire safeguard to lead us down the strait and narrow path on our way to full-blown maturity. If we need help, James gave us the answer to that when he wrote: “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all men generously and without reproach, and it will be given to you.” James 1:8

In other words, there’s no excuse for anyone not to mature if he/she has that desire. Help is just a prayer away.

Willa Johnson writes from Phoenix, Oregon. NA Rights Reserved wjhat@ccountry.com