Deuteronomy 27:9
“Then Moses and the Levitical priests spoke to all Israel, saying, “Be silent and listen, O Israel! This day you have become a people for the LORD your God.”
“This day you have become a people”. Israel has been the people of God for hundreds of years. Yet, they reached a level of development that was special. Their size (several million), level of faith (more trusting than their parents) and opportunity (crossing into the Promised Land) were all factors contributing to this acknowledgement.
We also reach levels of development that should be celebrated. Coming to Christ is one. Heaven rejoices when anyone makes this choice. Another stage in some denominations is recognized as Confirmation. It’s when one is accountable and more mature in their faith.
1 John 2:12,13 speaks of three different levels of faith and their characteristics. The first one is “little children” and forgiveness. New christians are often wrestling with guilt, condemnation and forgiveness. Experiencing forgiveness and learning to walk in grace are those early lessons.
The next stage is “young men (and women)” and their service. These are beginning to serve, minister and share their faith. These are things that the devil despises. The zeal of those at this stage is exciting.
The last stage that John address is “Fathers (and mothers)”. These are ones who have walked with The Lord for years. They are wise ones who make good elders. They know God’s love and have experience His trustworthiness.
These stages are all special. Just as the Israelites entered into a higher level of being God’s people, so we go through our own developmental stages.
Lord, thanks that You walk with us and mature us through all these levels.