The Factor

The number one factor or characteristic that most correlates to a high Spiritual maturity level is the practice of reading the Bible. I had to laugh when I saw this because most often we try to complicate things. The simple discipline of reading the Bible has a major impact on Christians. We need daily exposure to the life-transforming power of God through His revealed Word.


The foundation for godly character is the existence of a biblical worldview, but deception and ignorance lie at the root of ungodly behavior. Christians often look in the wrong place to grow spiritually. They focus on changing behavior, but the real battle is in perspective or patterns of thinking. This is why Paul said:

"Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God" (Rom. 12:2).

Transformation begins with the mind. It starts with your daily thought patterns. It's not, "you are what you eat" but "you are what you think."

True Spiritual Maturity will not take place without significant and consistent participation in God's Word (reading and doing). This is why Paul challenged the church at Colossae to:

"Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God (Col. 3:16).


There are no shortcuts to biblical spiritual formation, it is a process. We can tweak our behavior, but this will not last. We must do the difficult work of cultivation the mind-set of Christ. So if we want to grow and if we want our people to grow, we must increase our exposure to truth. We must read, study, memorize, and reflect on biblical truth. We must increase and take advantage of educational opportunities. We must all listen to sound biblical preaching, read substantive books, and surround ourselves with people who challenge the way we think and act. We must all become open, vulnerable, and transparent within the community of faith. Spiritual formation is not private or individualized. We learn through relationships. Let's push ourselves to become dedicated learners.