I’m pondering the question, “What is the essential difference between immature believers and mature ones?” My observation is it is not their Bible knowledge, although they are often quite familiar with the Scriptures. It is not their courage in the face of adversity, even though we often see that on display. It is not disciplined behavior, though they are often disciplined.
I believe the essential difference is trust. Not a vague, spiritual trust, but a specific trust in their relationship with the living Christ.
Mature believers don’t always know what to do, but they have learned to trust in the One who knows all things. They don’t always have the strength for what is required, but they have learned to trust in the One through whom they can do all things. They don’t always get what they want, but they have learned to trust in the character of the One who gives abundantly and withholds wisely. They don’t always do the right thing, but they have learned to trust in the One who is their righteousness. And though they may have notebooks filled with sermons, their trust is in the One who speaks to their hearts.
Mature believers don’t rely on how much they have together, nor despair because of their shortcomings. Instead, they have learned that their primary work as believers is to continually focus on and “believe in the One whom the Father has sent” (John 6:29).
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