Have you ever met someone who was independent—maybe they’ve moved out, paid their bills, and held down a job—but still seemed emotionally or spiritually immature? Perhaps it’s the coworker who lashes out in frustration when something doesn’t go their way, the friend who avoids responsibility and blames others, or even the believer who’s been attending church for years but never seems to grow in their faith. So how can we grow emotionally and spiritually in faith?

Maturity isn’t just about leaving home or checking off life’s milestones. As Christ followers, we’re called to grow up in every area of life. True maturity reflects Christ in our decisions, relationships, and how we handle challenges. The Apostle Paul put it this way:

“When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things” (1 Corinthians 13:11, NLT).

Let’s explore five ways to leave childish ways behind and grow into mature, productive adults who honor God in every aspect of our lives.

1. Maturity Starts with Recognizing Immaturity

The first step to growing up is recognizing the areas where we’re still immature. Hebrews 5:12-14 (NLT) challenges believers who have been following Christ for years but remain spiritually “stuck”:

“You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food.”

This scripture reminds us that immaturity isn’t just about age or experience—it’s about a failure to grow. Immaturity can show up as selfishness, irresponsibility, or depending on others to solve our problems instead of stepping up.

Practical Tip: Take an honest self-assessment. Ask yourself: Am I still acting childishly in how I handle finances, relationships, or spiritual growth? Once you identify those areas, you can work on them intentionally.

2. Spiritual Growth Requires Intentional Effort

Growth doesn’t happen by accident. Philippians 3:13-14 (NLT) reminds us to focus on our spiritual journey:

“I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize.”

Spiritual maturity means letting go of excuses and embracing habits like prayer, Bible study, and accountability. It’s about pressing forward and becoming more like Christ each day.

Practical Tip: Set achievable spiritual goals. For example, commit to reading one chapter of the Bible daily or joining a small group for fellowship and accountability.

3. Emotional Maturity Reflects Christ’s Love

Our spiritual growth should also show up in how we handle emotions. Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) describes the fruit of the Spirit as evidence of maturity:

“The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”

Emotional maturity means responding to life with patience, self-control, and love. It’s the ability to navigate conflict, manage stress, and show compassion in challenging circumstances.

Practical Tip: In emotionally charged situations, practice pausing before you react. Pray and reflect on scripture like Galatians 5:22-23 to guide your responses.

4. Maturity Builds Strong Relationships with Loved Ones

Relational maturity is vital for building strong, God-honoring connections. Ephesians 4:2-3 (NLT) encourages believers to:

“Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.”

Mature relationships are built on humility, forgiveness, and a commitment to unity. These qualities strengthen marriages, friendships, and family dynamics.

Practical Tip: Work on open, honest communication with loved ones. Make it a habit to seek forgiveness quickly when conflicts arise and to extend grace to others.

5. A Mature Life Glorifies God and Inspires Others

When we grow into mature, Christ-centered adults, our lives become a testimony of God’s work in us. Jesus said in Matthew 5:16 (NLT):

“Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”

Maturity allows us to glorify God through our work, relationships, and service to others. It also inspires those around us to grow in their own faith.

Practical Tip: Serve others in ways that reflect Christ’s love. Whether it’s mentoring a younger believer, volunteering in your community, or simply showing kindness, your actions can make a lasting impact.

Conclusion

Maturity is more than just “growing up.” It’s about becoming the person God created you to be—spiritually strong, emotionally stable, and relationally healthy.

So, let me ask you: Are you stuck in immaturity? It’s time to grow up. Commit today to mature in your faith, in your relationships, and in how you treat others.

Start by asking God to show you where you need to grow. Then, take one small, practical step this week toward greater maturity. Remember, this is a lifelong journey, but with God’s help, you can grow into the person He’s calling you to be.

As 2 Peter 3:18 (NLT) encourages us:

“Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen.”