Weekly Thought Archives > Can You Handle Maturity

Can You Handle Maturity

Fred’s notetaking was famous. He was especially grateful for offering envelopes - they opened up to provide great writing surfaces in church. His legacy includes thousands of matchbook covers, napkins, programs, business envelopes, scraps of paper, and of course ---- expanded offering envelopes. Enjoy a sample of his thinking in "note-taking style."

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1. What does money mean? Money is a means, not an end; it is a tool, not an idol. Friends should be chosen for character, not just financial balance sheets -- net worth can change; character cannot.

2. Do I manipulate or motivate? Using people is childish; inspiring people is adult behavior. Charm is deceitful; concern is helpful.

3. How grateful am I? Expressing thanks to those on whose shoulders I stand keeps my contribution in perspective. It is hard to stay depressed while being grateful.

4. Do I have a forgiving spirit? Knowing the goodness of God means experiencing His forgiveness. Knowing this allows us to express forgiveness and freedom to others. Bitterness imprisons; forgiveness releases.

5. How do I view my responsibility of service to others? Service is the rent I pay for the space I occupy on earth. People are honored for what they give, not what they get. Jesus went about "doing good."

6. What is my emotional maturity level? Healthy individuals demonstrate control and cool under pressure. Race car drivers are their best in the turns at top speed. Faith provides a foundation for poise and stability. Heat proves the condition of the heart.

7. What makes me laugh? Every healthy person uses and enjoys healthy humor. It is an escape valve, a communication tool, a perspective provider, and a humanizing element. Humor is one of life’s finest lubricants -- the gears mesh without clashing.

8. Who is in control of my life? True maturity comes in acquiescence, not in acquisition. The giving up of power and control to God begets gaining of life, freedom, and running room. Death to self is life in Him -- the great paradox.

This week further consider these questions: 1) How would I describe maturity to someone else? 2) what words would people use to describe my maturity level? 3) What am I willing to sacrifice for maturity?

Words of Wisdom: "Service is the rent I pay for the space I occupy on earth."

Wisdom from the Word: Therefore we must progress beyond the elementary instructions about Christ and move on to maturity, (Hebrews 6:1a NET Bible)