Today’s daily devotional for February 9 will touch on spiritual maturity in trials. I think we have often wondered how adults behave frivolously and irresponsibly. Especially in times of difficulty, they give in to a disproportionate amount of panic and despair, even though the situation does not seem so tragic.
Therefore, let us today identify the need and even the obligation of the Christian to grow and reach spiritual maturity. And spiritual maturity bears fruit in times of trial, shapes our faith and character, and teaches us to accept God’s will and not just our own desires.
Daily Devotional for February 9
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2-3)
Spiritual Maturity in Trials
Children get angry and hysterical if things don’t go their way. But over time, children grow up and realize that the world is not about them.
It is essential that we learn these basic life lessons in childhood and that we enter adult life with spiritual maturity.
Facing trials and not getting what you want can be a profound spiritual exercise, fostering spiritual maturity as you learn to submit to God’s plan.
The Challenge of Unmet Desires
It’s natural to feel frustrated when your desires go unfulfilled. You might think, “I’ve done everything right; why isn’t this working out?” But these moments are not just obstacles; they are growth opportunities.
God’s Justice and Love
God, in His perfect justice and love, often has different plans than the ones you’ve crafted for yourself. Recognizing this can be difficult, especially when you’re faced with disappointment.
The Pitfalls of Entitlement
Believing you deserve everything you want can lead to a sense of entitlement, which only heightens the sting of unmet expectations. Spiritual maturity in trials teaches you that life’s blessings are gifts, not guarantees.
Learn from Jonah’s Story
The Biblical story of the prophet Jonah is a very vivid illustration of the situation we are discussing.
Jonah’s anger at God’s mercy towards Nineveh reveals a human tendency to prefer being right over embracing God’s broader vision of grace and redemption (Jonah 4). Like Jonah, you may find it hard to accept God’s plans when they diverge from your own.
Choose Submission and Contentment
True spiritual maturity lies in echoing Jesus’ submission in the Garden of Gethsemane, saying, “Not my will, but Yours.” This surrender transforms your trials into pathways to deeper faith and contentment in God’s will.
Devotional for every day here: Daily Devotional
Prayer for Today
Lord, in the face of trials and unmet desires, help me to cultivate spiritual maturity, trusting in Your more excellent plan. Forgive me for moments of entitlement and frustration, and teach me to find joy and growth in every challenge. Guide me to submit my will to Yours, finding peace in knowing that You work all things for good. May my trials strengthen my faith and draw me closer to You. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
To You
Where in your life are you facing trials that challenge your desires? How can embracing spiritual maturity in these trials transform your perspective and deepen your relationship with God?
Let spiritual maturity in trials be a beacon for your faith journey. Every challenge has a lesson, a chance to grow closer to God, and an opportunity to say, “Your will be done.” Amen.
