"Therefore, let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you." Philippians 3:15
Mature souls have an understanding that transcends the world. Often, it even goes beyond those around them. A mature soul has the ability to see the world and the souls in it as they are. They see the reality of things.
Mature souls see it all at once in its actual state. You didn't simply choose that drink out of the blue at the bar and grill. The ambiance, food, subtle ads, and waiter's subtle suggestion implanted an idea in your mind that pleased the flesh (James 1:13-15). Bar Rescue, a popular show on TV, highlights that process all too well. It also shows how weak and susceptible we can be to suggestions. The mature mind is not deceived, "Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren." (James 1:16) These are just many ways this mature mind sees reality.
Mature minds have high hopes. The hope we have in Christ is beyond anything in this world. All man's pursuits will never reach what God gives us in eternity.
This hope anchors us in Christ, "This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil," (Hebrews 6:19). It proves there is more and we are made for more. The high hopes of mature minds provide a constant reminder and permanent inner longing for eternal life that drives them to see the world's reality. This lowly living that is sold and marketed for greed and covetousness is not a reality. That is the "matrix" we live in. The reality is in Christ. Mature minds understand this and see this. They then live by this.
Mature souls understand that worthy efforts may go unrewarded. In Christ, even our most significant accomplishments are simply out of obedience to Him. Jesus made it clear with this statement, "So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, 'We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.'" (Luke 17:10). The reality is there is not a trophy for every good deed done well. The goal is the inner development of a man to be so transformed that the simple action of good unto others is the reward. However, the unreal life we live in this world would say otherwise.
The world would say. "Live for the reward!" Yet, to live for a reward would be to live for personal gain, or selfish ambition. In Christ, the valid reward is to live to the fullness of which you were created in Christ Jesus to live, free from worldly bondage. That is what a mature mind sees as a real life and genuine effort.
Reality is not some mythical place on some 4th dimensional spiritual plain. It is simply having a mature mind in Christ. With that mind, the unveiling of the world, sin, and darkness takes place. You cannot see or live in it without a mature mind. What's reality to you? Is it the same as those with a mature mind?
-Steve Johnson
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