1 Corinthians 13:11 Devotional

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 put the ways of childhood behind me
-1 Corinthians 13:11

For those with children, it’s obvious how big of a gap there is between what an adult loves and what a child loves. For example, think of a brand-new new television – adults want the expensive electronics in the box, while the child can spend hours playing pretend with the box! A child has no concept of the amazing item they are passing up!

According to sociologists, we live in a world of “expanding adolescence”. Age 25 is the new 18, and more men and women are exchanging the responsibility of being an adult with the comforts of childhood. In today’s reading, the apostle Paul is saying the same of our faith!
In his letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul lays down a stark condemnation – “It’s time to grow up.” The people of Corinth who had decided to follow Jesus were still living in their old ways, following false teaching and seeking pagan gods. Paul, much like a father to a child, was writing to the church he loved, pleading with them to grow up in their faith and follow God alone.

In what areas of your life are you still living in the “childlike things”? Where do you need to put away the things of your past life and follow the life God has set for you in Christ?

Much like a child who gives up the expensive television for the simple cardboard box, many of us daily give up the glories of God for the foolish things of the flesh. When we realign our focus on God’s will in His Word, we will discover that He alone can give us true and lasting life!

Questions For Reflection on 1 Corinthians 13:11

#1 Paul commands the Corinthians to “put away childish things”. What parts of your life could be considered childish? How will you live knowing that God expects more for your life?

#2 Consider the reality of the life that Paul is calling the Corinthians to live. Have you counted the cost of following Jesus daily? Do you know what it looks like to follow Him today?

Prayer

Lord, let me count the cost of knowing and following You. Help me to follow You with full assurance, putting behind me the things of my spiritual “childhood.” I desire and long to know you fully. I repent of my foolish wanderings and sin and ask that you give me a heart for Your gospel and those who are lost in their sin today.