2012) When my young scholars come back to school each year, I am astonished how much they have grown and matured since the year before. This growing and maturity isn’t often seen by them, so when I comment on their growth, they look at me without much understanding.  

James 3:2 makes a similar observation. It says we stumble (err, sin or transgress) in many ways, something I often have no problem in seeing. It goes on to say that the “perfect” (complete, spiritually mature) man is one who does not stumble (err, sin or transgress).  

It would do us good to regularly check our spiritual maturing but like my young scholars, it’s sometimes difficult to see growth. This is where other people are helpful, especially ones who are also God’s children.

Checking in with God and others is often helpful.