I saw a pacifier on the ground when I was out walking today. I’m not sure how long it’s been there. Long enough to be encrusted with dirt. It reminds me of when our children threw away their pacifiers. There came a day when they just didn’t want it anymore. No fuss, no drama. When our children matured, their pacifier went in the trash, and we moved on.
I know there are children who go through a major withdrawal when letting go of their comfort items. Perhaps it’s because we as parents rush them. But there’s a difference between being a child and being childish. One is a season of life but for an adult, the other is a character defect.
The Apostle Paul puts it this way,
When I was a child, I spoke about childish matters, for I saw things like a child and reasoned like a child. But the day came when I matured, and I set aside my childish ways. 1 Cor. 13:11 TPT
Setting Aside Childish Ways
Much like my kids throwing their pacifiers in the trash, there comes a point in time for letting go. We must let go to grow. What do we let go of? Paul gives us a great outline:
- Speaking about childish matters.
- Seeing things like a child.
- Reasoning like a child.
Some common childish behaviors to let go of include:
- Focusing on emotions over truth: Children often base their decisions on feelings. As Christians, we base our choices on God’s Word, not on our emotions.
- Selfishness: Sharing and considering the needs of others is a behavior we must learn. Maturing in Christ means loving others as we love ourselves.
- Holding grudges: A child may hold onto anger, but mature believers have learned to work through their issues.
- Impatience: Children want things now. However, spiritual growth requires patience and trusting in God’s timing for our lives.
No fuss, no drama
Maturing in Christ is a lifelong journey. As we go deeper in the Word we encounter truths and wisdom to incorporate into our lives. We find mentors to guide us. And we naturally begin to practice new behaviors and thought processes. Prayer helps us each step of the way. Each time we recognize the childish behaviors in ourselves and actively choose growth, we move to a deeper, more impactful, and more intimate relationship with God. I can’t claim to have always let go with no fuss, no drama. But, I can claim to be making progress, so pray for me, and I’ll be praying for you!