FAITH: Comes by Hearing the Word of God
Romans 15:1–3: We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification. For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached You fell on Me.”
FAITH: Comes by Studying the Word of God
Paul classified himself with the strong saints as he dealt with a basic problem—selfishness. True Christian love is not selfish; rather, it seeks to share with others and make others happy. It is even willing to carry the younger Christians, to help them along in their spiritual development. We do not endure them. We encourage them!
Of course, the great example in this is our Lord Jesus Christ. He paid a tremendous price in order to minister to us. A person’s spiritual maturity is revealed by his discernment. He is willing to give up his rights that others might be helped. He does this, not as a burden, but as a blessing. Just as loving parents make sacrifices for their children, so the mature believer sacrifices to help younger Christians grow in the faith. 1
FAITH: Comes by Obeying the Word of God
Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:1–2
Your spiritual maturity is seen in the way you treat others. So how mature are you?
FAITH: Comes by Experiencing the Transforming Work of God
Love is willing to spend ourselves on others, out of our love for Jesus.
FAITH: Comes by Praying with the Word of God
Jesus humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death… Philippians 2:8
Dear Father, teach me more about humility and obedience. That is my prayer today.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, p. 562). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
