For the earth bears fruit: first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear.
Mark 4:28
We understand this well enough in nature, but do we in spiritual life?
The beginnings of Christian life are weak and imperfect. We shouldnât expect to find in new believers the same maturity of character that we look for in older Christians. Grace begins in small ways.
We have no right to immediately find the ripened fruits that come with years of Christian experience, after all, a stalk of wheat doesn't stop at being a tender blade but shoots up into a strong plant, and then ripens.
Christian lives should grow - they have no right to always remain immature.
They should grow in knowledge, in power, in purpose, in achievement, until they can present all the fruits of the Spirit and grow into the fullness of Christian experience.
We should also take note that while the growth is secret its results are manifest. The processes of spiritual life are invisible, but the results are not. If a Christian is growing in grace, we will know it by his life.
He will wear more and more of the image of Christ, and the "mind of Christ" will appear more and more in his disposition and conduct.
Another thought suggested here is that the beginnings of life in young Christians should be gently encouraged by those who are their spiritual mentors. The tender blades of wheat cannot endure a frost.
Young converts cannot endure the trials and temptations of this world. A pastor once said, "My concern about bringing new converts into the church is not to do with their sincerity, enthusiasm, or suitability for church membership, but because there'0s no way we can provide for their growth and nurture once they arrive."
How sad!
Something must be wrong with the church when this is true. Anyone concerned about this should think long and hard about these words.
source: the vinetoday.com.