A Glass of Milk or a Filet Mignon

“For every one that useth milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. (Hebrews 5:13-14)

         What’s the difference between milk and meat? In the spiritual realm, I mean. We all know in the physical realm it depends on whether you are trying to feed a baby or an adult, primarily. Well, it’s not much different when it comes to spiritual matters. So, the next question, obviously, is who does God categorize as being spiritual babies, and who may wear the distinction of being “of full age?” One might be tempted to see the latter as someone who can explain the intricacies and implications of the Old Testament tabernacle furnishings and practices, or perhaps the imagery in the Book of Revelation. If so, one would be wrong. According to this passage, spiritual grown-ups are simply those able to discern between good and evil. And don’t kid yourself; there are not all that many who fall into this category.

         Surprisingly enough, the discipline that will bring one to this favorable plateau in his or her life Christian life is not necessarily how much Bible we read, or even how much prayer we offer. Instead, it is the discipline of our senses that is required here. That’s rather an eye-opener, isn’t it? Mundane things such as what we look at, listen to, consume, touch, or even smell, all have the capability of stunting our spiritual growth. As important as our daily contact with God through prayer and Bible reading may be, it can all be sabotaged by intemperate senses.

         We cannot, nor should we, deny our senses. After all, they are God given. But unbridled, they can fool us, at best, or destroy us, at worst. They simply cannot be relied upon to tell us what is good and evil…unless they have been “exercised unto godliness” (1 Tim. 4:7). And one of the best exercises is a strong, definite “NO!”

If you’re still making decisions based on how things look, or how they make you feel, you’re still a spiritual baby. Grow up!