From Acceptance to Approval: Growing in Maturity

Key Verse:
“Now I say that the heir, as long as he is a child, does not differ at all from a slave, though he is master of all.” – Galatians 4:1 (NKJV)

Earlier, we discussed the difference between acceptance and approval in our relationship with God. When you are born again, you are unconditionally accepted into the family of God. However, acceptance does not automatically lead to approval. The Father’s declaration in Matthew 3:17, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased,” refers to a deeper level of our walk with God. This statement speaks to our growth and maturity in the faith, where we move beyond merely enjoying the Father’s love to actively giving back to Him in service and obedience.

Many Christians believe they are somehow “cheating” God if they remain at the stage of receiving His love without progressing. But the truth is, they are cheating themselves by not maturing. As a natural father, there are things you know and wisdom you possess that you can’t share with your young child because they’re not yet mature enough to understand. In the same way, there are spiritual secrets that God only reveals to those who are maturing and who bring Him pleasure through their growth and obedience.

The unfortunate reality is that a mature and committed servant will often have more access to the Father’s resources than an immature child. God will sometimes hold back blessings and responsibilities from us until we are mature enough to handle them. Galatians 4:1 explains this principle: “The heir, as long as he is a child, does not differ at all from a slave.” The child may be the heir, but until he grows and matures, he cannot access the inheritance.

Maturity in God’s Kingdom is not determined by age but by awareness, understanding, and response. It is about accepting responsibility for the tasks and challenges God places before us. The more we take on responsibility and serve faithfully, the more we mature, and the more we will be trusted with the things of the Kingdom. Maturity is a choice, and it begins with a willingness to take responsibility.

Prayer:
Father, I thank you for the unconditional acceptance you have shown me as your child. I pray that I will not stay at the stage of simply receiving your love but that I will grow into a mature son who pleases you. Help me to take responsibility in my spiritual walk and to become aware of the deeper things you desire to reveal to me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.