by As Christians, growing up is not just about maturing physically but also about maturing spiritually. The Bible is full of wisdom that guides us through this process, helping us grow in faith, understanding, and love. Below are Bible verses that provide insight and encouragement for growing up in Christ.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Doing The Right Thing
Bible Verses About Growing Up
1 Corinthians 13:11
“When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things.”
Commentary: This verse highlights the natural process of maturation, both physically and spiritually. As believers grow in their faith, they are called to leave behind childish ways of thinking and behaving, adopting a more mature and Christ-like approach to life. The transition from spiritual infancy to maturity involves a deepening of understanding and a commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus in a mature and responsible way.
Ephesians 4:15
“But speaking the truth in love, in all things [both our speech and our lives expressing His truth], let us grow up in all things into Him [following His example] who is the Head—Christ.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes the importance of growing in every aspect of our lives to reflect Christ. Spiritual growth involves not only increasing in knowledge but also in love and truth. By following Christ’s example, believers are called to mature into His likeness, demonstrating His love and truth in all their actions and words.
1 Peter 2:2
“Like newborn babies [you should] long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may be nurtured and grow in respect to salvation [its ultimate fulfillment].”
Commentary: Peter encourages believers to crave the pure spiritual milk of God’s word, which is essential for growth. Just as physical growth requires nourishment, spiritual growth requires feeding on God’s word. This verse underscores the importance of consistently seeking God’s truth in order to grow and mature in faith, ultimately leading to the fullness of salvation.
2 Peter 3:18
“But grow [spiritually mature] in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him [be] glory (honor, majesty, splendor), both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.”
Commentary: Spiritual growth is not a one-time event but a continuous process. Peter encourages believers to keep growing in both grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. This ongoing growth glorifies God and prepares believers for eternity. The verse calls us to remain diligent in our pursuit of spiritual maturity, recognizing that it is a lifelong journey.
Hebrews 5:12-14
“For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you [actually] need someone to teach you again the elementary principles of God’s word [from the beginning], and you have come to be continually in need of milk, not solid food. For everyone who lives on milk is [doctrinally inexperienced and unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a spiritual infant. But solid food is for the spiritually mature, whose senses are trained by practice to distinguish between what is morally good and what is evil.”
Commentary: The writer of Hebrews reprimands the readers for their lack of spiritual maturity. They should have progressed to the point of teaching others, yet they still need basic instruction. This passage challenges believers to move beyond spiritual infancy, seeking the deeper truths of God’s word, which can only be digested by those who are mature in their faith.
Colossians 2:6-7
“Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, walk in [union with] Him, [reflecting His character in the things you do and say—living lives that lead others away from sin], having been deeply rooted [in Him] and now being continually built up in Him and becoming increasingly more established in your faith, just as you were taught, and overflowing in it with gratitude.”
Commentary: Paul urges believers to continue growing in their faith after receiving Christ. This growth involves being rooted in Christ, built up in Him, and becoming more established in faith. As believers mature, their lives should increasingly reflect Christ’s character, and their gratitude should overflow, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel.
James 1:4
“And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing.”
Commentary: James teaches that trials and endurance lead to spiritual maturity. As believers face challenges, they are refined and developed in their faith. This process leads to completeness, where they lack nothing in their spiritual lives. Growth through trials is essential for developing the perseverance and character needed to live out the Christian faith fully.
Philippians 1:6
“I am convinced and confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will [continue to] perfect and complete it until the day of Christ Jesus [the time of His return].”
Commentary: Paul expresses confidence that God, who began the work of salvation in the believers, will continue to work in them until it is fully completed. Spiritual growth is God’s work in us, and He is faithful to bring it to completion. This verse reassures believers that their growth is secure in God’s hands, and He will continue to guide and perfect them until Christ returns.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
“All Scripture is God-breathed [given by divine inspiration] and is profitable for instruction, for conviction [of sin], for correction [of error and restoration to obedience], for training in righteousness [learning to live in conformity to God’s will, both publicly and privately—behaving honorably with personal integrity and moral courage]; so that the man of God may be complete and proficient, outfitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
Commentary: Paul reminds Timothy that Scripture is essential for spiritual growth. The Word of God is the ultimate guide for teaching, correcting, and training in righteousness. Through Scripture, believers are equipped and made complete, ready to carry out every good work. Spiritual maturity comes from a deep engagement with God’s Word, which shapes and prepares believers for service in His kingdom.
Psalm 1:1-3
“Blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked [following their advice and example], nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit [down to rest] in the seat of scoffers (ridiculers). But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law [His precepts and teachings] he [habitually] meditates day and night. And he will be like a tree firmly planted [and fed] by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season; its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers [and comes to maturity].”
Commentary: The psalmist describes the blessedness of the one who meditates on God’s law. This person is compared to a well-nourished tree that prospers and matures. Spiritual growth comes from a consistent and deep engagement with God’s Word, leading to a fruitful and prosperous life. This passage encourages believers to find delight in God’s teachings, which provide the nourishment needed for spiritual maturity.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit [the result of His presence within us] is love [unselfish concern for others], joy, [inner] peace, patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting], kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
Commentary: Paul lists the fruits of the Spirit, which are the marks of spiritual maturity. As believers grow in their faith, the Holy Spirit produces these qualities within them. Spiritual growth is evident when these fruits become increasingly visible in a believer’s life. This passage highlights the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in shaping believers to reflect the character of Christ.
Romans 12:2
“And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].”
Commentary: Paul urges believers to resist the pressures of the world and instead be transformed through the renewing of their minds. Spiritual growth involves a continuous process of mind renewal, which aligns believers with God’s will. This transformation leads to maturity, enabling believers to discern and live out God’s good and perfect will in their lives.
Psalm 92:12-14
“The righteous will flourish like the date palm [long-lived, upright and useful]; They will grow like a cedar in Lebanon [majestic and stable]. Planted in the house of the LORD, They will flourish in the courts of our God. [Growing in grace] they will still thrive and bear fruit and prosper in old age; They will flourish and be [vital and fresh] [rich in trust and love and contentment];”
Commentary: This psalm paints a picture of the flourishing life of the righteous, who are likened to strong and enduring trees. Spiritual growth leads to a life of stability, fruitfulness, and vitality, even in old age. This passage assures believers that as they grow in grace and remain rooted in God, their lives will be fruitful and flourishing, reflecting His glory.
1 John 2:14
“I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who has existed from the beginning; I have written to you, young men, because you are strong and vigorous, and the word of God remains [always] in you, and you have been victorious over the evil one.”
Commentary: John addresses different stages of spiritual maturity within the Christian community. He acknowledges the strength of young believers and their victory over evil, rooted in the Word of God. This verse highlights the role of God’s Word in empowering believers to overcome challenges and grow in strength and maturity. Spiritual growth involves progressing from spiritual infancy to the strength and wisdom that comes from a deep relationship with God.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Consistency
Proverbs 4:18
“But the path of the just (righteous) is like the light of dawn, That shines brighter and brighter until it reaches its full strength and glory in the perfect day.”
Commentary: The path of the righteous is described as a journey from dawn to full daylight, symbolizing the progressive nature of spiritual growth. As believers walk in righteousness, their lives should increasingly reflect the light of Christ. This verse encourages believers to continue growing in their faith, moving towards greater spiritual maturity and the full glory of God.
1 Thessalonians 4:1
“Finally, believers, we ask and admonish you in the Lord Jesus that you follow the instruction that you received from us about how you ought to walk and please God [just as you are actually doing] and that you excel [in this matter] more and more [pursuing a life of purpose and living in a way that expresses gratitude to God for your salvation].”
Commentary: Paul encourages the Thessalonians to continue growing in their walk with God, striving to please Him more and more. Spiritual growth is a continuous pursuit of living a life that honors God and expresses gratitude for His salvation. This verse reminds believers that there is always room for growth in their faith journey, as they seek to excel in their relationship with God.
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who wait for the LORD [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] Will gain new strength and renew their power; They will lift up their wings [and rise up close to God] like eagles [rising toward the sun]; They will run and not become weary, They will walk and not grow tired.”
Commentary: Isaiah promises that those who trust in the Lord will experience renewed strength. Spiritual growth often involves seasons of waiting, during which God renews and strengthens His people. This verse encourages believers to remain patient and hopeful, trusting that God will provide the strength needed to continue growing and thriving in their spiritual journey.
Psalm 119:105
“Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.”
Commentary: The psalmist acknowledges the guidance provided by God’s Word in the journey of life. Spiritual growth requires a commitment to following the path illuminated by Scripture. This verse emphasizes the importance of relying on God’s Word for direction, wisdom, and understanding, which are essential for maturing in faith.
Matthew 5:48
“You, therefore, will be perfect [growing into spiritual maturity both in mind and character, actively integrating godly values into your daily life], as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
Commentary: Jesus calls His followers to strive for perfection, which means growing into spiritual maturity. This involves the continuous integration of godly values into every aspect of life, reflecting the character of God. Spiritual growth is a journey towards becoming more like Christ, embodying His teachings in both mind and character.
Colossians 1:10
“So that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord [displaying admirable character, moral courage, and personal integrity], to fully please Him in all things, bearing fruit in every good work and steadily growing in the knowledge of God [with deeper faith, clearer insight, and fervent love for His precepts].”
Commentary: Paul prays for the Colossians to live lives worthy of the Lord, bearing fruit in every good work and growing in the knowledge of God. Spiritual growth involves developing a character that pleases God and results in good works. This verse encourages believers to pursue a deeper understanding of God, which leads to greater spiritual maturity and fruitfulness.
John 15:4
“Remain in Me, and I [will remain] in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself without remaining in the vine, neither can you [bear fruit, producing evidence of your faith] unless you remain in Me.”
Commentary: Jesus teaches the importance of remaining connected to Him in order to bear fruit. Spiritual growth and fruitfulness are only possible through a close and abiding relationship with Christ. This verse emphasizes the necessity of staying rooted in Christ for ongoing growth and maturity in the Christian life.
1 Corinthians 3:6-7
“I planted, Apollos watered, but God [all the while] was causing the growth. So neither is the one who plants nor the one who waters anything, but [only] God who causes the growth.”
Commentary: Paul acknowledges that while humans can plant and water, it is ultimately God who causes growth. Spiritual growth is a work of God, and believers must depend on Him for their maturation. This passage encourages humility and trust in God’s sovereign role in our spiritual development.
Luke 2:52
“And Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and in stature, and in favor with God and men.”
Commentary: Even Jesus, the Son of God, grew in wisdom and stature. This verse serves as a reminder that growth is a natural and necessary part of life, even for the perfect Son of God. Believers are called to follow His example, seeking to grow in wisdom and favor with both God and others.
Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go [teaching him to seek God’s wisdom and will for his abilities and talents]; Even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Commentary: This proverb emphasizes the importance of early spiritual training. The instruction and guidance given to children have a lasting impact, shaping their future paths. This verse encourages parents and mentors to invest in the spiritual growth of the younger generation, ensuring they are equipped to follow God throughout their lives.
Jeremiah 17:7-8
“Blessed [with spiritual security] is the man who believes and trusts in and relies on the LORD And whose hope and confident expectation is the LORD. For he will be [nourished] like a tree planted by the waters, That spreads out its roots by the river; And will not fear the heat when it comes; But its leaves will be green and moist. And it will not be anxious and concerned in a year of drought Nor stop bearing fruit.”
Commentary: Jeremiah describes the person who trusts in the Lord as a well-nourished tree that bears fruit even in difficult times. Spiritual growth involves deepening trust and reliance on God, leading to a life of fruitfulness and stability. This verse reassures believers that when they are rooted in God, they can thrive even in challenging circumstances.
Philippians 3:12-14
“Not that I have already obtained it [this goal of being Christlike] or have already been made perfect, but I actively press on so that I may take hold of that [perfection] for which Christ Jesus took hold of me and made me His own. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider that I have made it my own yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the [heavenly] prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
Commentary: Paul reflects on his ongoing journey towards spiritual maturity. He acknowledges that he has not yet reached perfection but is pressing on towards the goal. This passage encourages believers to keep striving for growth, letting go of past failures and focusing on the future prize of being fully Christlike. Spiritual growth is a continuous pursuit that requires perseverance and focus.
Psalm 23:1-3
“The LORD is my Shepherd [to feed, to guide and to shield me], I shall not want. He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still and quiet waters. He refreshes and restores my soul (life); He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.”
Commentary: The psalmist describes God as a shepherd who provides, guides, and restores. Spiritual growth involves recognizing God’s leading and care in our lives. As believers grow in their faith, they experience God’s provision and guidance, leading them in paths of righteousness. This passage encourages believers to trust in God’s shepherding care as they mature in their spiritual journey.
John 15:2
“Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that continues to bear fruit, He [repeatedly] prunes, so that it will bear more fruit [even richer and finer fruit].”
Commentary: Jesus explains that God prunes fruitful branches so they can bear even more fruit. Spiritual growth often involves pruning, where God removes anything that hinders our growth. This process, though sometimes painful, is essential for producing greater fruitfulness in our lives. Believers are encouraged to embrace God’s pruning, trusting that it leads to greater spiritual maturity.
2 Corinthians 3:18
“And we all, with unveiled faces, continually seeing as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are progressively being transformed into His image from [one degree of] glory to even more glory, which comes from the Lord, [who is] the Spirit.”
Commentary: Paul describes the process of spiritual transformation as a progressive journey from one degree of glory to another. As believers behold the glory of the Lord, they are gradually transformed into His likeness. This verse highlights the ongoing nature of spiritual growth, which is the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of every believer. Growth is not instantaneous but a gradual transformation that brings believers closer to the image of Christ.
Hebrews 6:1
“Therefore let us get past the elementary stage in the teachings about the Christ, advancing on to maturity and perfection and spiritual completeness, doing this without laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God,”
Commentary: The writer of Hebrews urges believers to move beyond the basics of their faith and advance to spiritual maturity. Growth involves building on the foundation of faith and repentance, moving towards deeper understanding and spiritual completeness. This verse challenges believers to strive for maturity, seeking to grow in their knowledge and application of the teachings of Christ.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Attitude
What Does the Bible Say About Growing Up
Growing up is a big deal, isn’t it? When we’re young, we often think about what it will be like to be older. Maybe we think about being able to drive a car, having a job, or making our own decisions. But growing up isn’t just about getting taller or being able to stay up late. The Bible talks a lot about growing up, and it’s not just about getting older in years but also about becoming the person God wants us to be.
You see, growing up according to the Bible is about learning to make good choices. As we grow, we start to understand what is right and what is wrong. We learn to be responsible for our actions and to think about how our choices affect others. It’s about listening to wise advice, even when we think we know everything. Sometimes, that’s hard because, let’s be honest, who likes being told what to do? But the Bible says that listening to wise advice is part of growing up and becoming wise ourselves.
Growing up also means learning to be patient. When we’re young, we want everything right now. We want our food fast, our games to load quickly, and we want to grow up overnight. But the Bible encourages us to be patient, to take our time, and to trust that things will happen when they’re supposed to. This can be tough, especially when we’re eager to move on to the next big thing. But patience helps us grow strong and wise, just like a tree that takes time to grow tall.
Another important part of growing up is learning to love others. The Bible teaches us that love is not just a feeling; it’s something we do. As we grow up, we learn that it’s important to be kind to others, even when they’re not kind to us. It’s about helping those who need help and being a good friend. Love isn’t always easy, but it’s a big part of what it means to grow up.
Finally, growing up according to the Bible is about learning to trust God more and more. When we’re young, we often rely on our parents or other adults to take care of us. But as we grow, we start to understand that God is always with us, guiding us and helping us make the right choices. Trusting God means knowing that He has a plan for our lives and that He will help us grow into the people He created us to be.
So, growing up isn’t just about getting older; it’s about becoming wise, patient, loving, and learning to trust God. It’s a journey, and it takes time, but it’s a journey worth taking. So, let’s keep growing, not just in size, but in heart, mind, and spirit!