Maturity in faith

A child learning to ride a bike starts with training wheels. They practice, feel their way, and gradually learn to keep their balance. Once they can ride reasonably safely with their training wheels, the big moment comes when the training wheels are removed. The child hesitates, perhaps falling over at first without the training wheels. But then they start riding.

It is the same with our faith. God loves us unconditionally from the beginning. But he calls us out of childhood. Not because we are only loved when we are mature, but because spiritual maturity enables us to live in his love.

The apostle Paul writes to the Corinthians that he still has to give them milk because they cannot yet tolerate solid food (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:1-2). Maturity does not mean knowing everything or always being strong. It is evident in the fact that we implement what we have recognized in the power of the Holy Spirit.

James puts it clearly: “But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves” (James 1:22, ESV). It is not enough to know biblical truths in theory; we must apply and implement them in our daily lives. For faith unfolds its power when it is lived out.

Letting go of the training wheels requires courage. Perhaps you doubt yourself and feel weak or uncertain in your calling. But spiritual maturity is not a state of perfection, but a path of faithfulness and trust. This path takes time.

In Ephesians 4:13, we read that God wants to lead us to full maturity through the diversity of gifts and ministries—to unity in faith and maturity in Christ. Like an apprentice who entrusts himself to the process of learning, we too grow step by step.

Growth in faith does not happen in the comfort zone. It arises in resistance, in tensions, and in honest struggle. There God shapes our character, makes our faith sustainable, and our lives a testimony to His grace.

We proclaim Him; we admonish everyone and teach everyone in all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ (cf. Colossians 1:28, EU), Paul writes to the Colossians. Spiritual maturity means allowing yourself to be shaped and becoming a disciple instead of a listener, a co-creator instead of a learner. And at some point, you take off your training wheels and ride off.

Next steps: Take time in the coming days to ask the Holy Spirit: Where do you want to challenge me to take action? Write down the thoughts and impressions that God gives you.