We want God to push a button and all of our immaturity be carried away in one spiritual lightening strike. Religious experience cannot substitute for the experience of right decision making. This takes times and the repetition of doing the right thing. We need a tested spirituality in the hard experiences of life; out of these come proven character. Out of the processes of struggle and perseverance comes maturity.
“And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope.” Romans 5:3-4 (NASB)
