Lately I've been wondering what it is exactly that defines Christian maturity. Here's what I feel like the church at large believes:

1) Christians should be super nice, and smile a lot.
2) Mature believers have a daily quiet time. Every day.
3) Christians don't drink, smoke, or swear. Ever.
4) It is enough to support a missionary monetarily and not do anything else mission-related. After all, mission work is for the super-Christians.

Fortunately, I do believe that many Christians - in particular the younger generation - are recognizing this mistake and thinking that there must be more to it than that. Believe me, there is. In fact, I think these 4 general things miss the point completely.

The point of Christian maturity is a heart change, not a few guidelines or rules. If I see someone actively loving and serving people in response to Christ's love, they're a solid believer in my book. I could care less if they read their Bible once a month or less.

The Bible says you will know them by their fruit. So what if they have a drink or a smoke? Do others - particularly non-believers - feel safe and comfortable around them? Like they can relax and be themselves? Like they're not being judged? Like they're being loved without an agenda?

If yes, then congratulations. You get it. Christian maturity is hard though, because it requires active and intentional effort.

I'm not by any means perfect at this. Yet. I'm getting there though. The desire is there, which is a start. I'm looking for the opportunity now.

By the way, here's some good new music I heard about from a friend.
Check it out!

Sleep Whale - Josh Likes Me