As a kid we are constantly told by our parents and other older figures to not grow up so fast, to slow down and enjoy life. There is a lot of good in that; one should always live in the present. But I would honestly say that there is a negative feeling that goes with growing up, which often leaves many young adults, especially those moving away and going to college, susceptible to feeling homesick, anxious, and even awfully afraid of the future. Is growing up too fast a bad thing?
“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really
are.” - e.e. Cummings
I grew up very quickly. I was always very responsible, acted mature and respectful, and had a good sense of who I was. I have been working since I was 14, I started making car payments (alongside my twin sister) at 17, and now—after my first year of college—I am paying tuition on my own with the help of student loans. I’ve been buying groceries for my home (even if my parents didn’t know), serving others, and essentially raising myself ever since I could drive. My parents allowed me to grow up, and I am so thankful for it.
You see, without the constant pestering to stay young and be a kid and slow down, I was able to find myself, and truly find who I was. I have made many mistakes on my own, and I have had to find many solutions on my own. I have been called to positions of leadership and to my future. I am very good at solving issues in my everyday life - all because I was able to grow up and go exactly where I felt God leading me. The only way we can know God’s plans for us, is if we listen.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord,
plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future
and a hope.” - Jeremiah 29:11 ESV
All of that being said, I am still very childish and have a child-like heart. What’s the fun if we have to be “grown up” all of the time? However, allowing God to take you and grow you as He sees fit will make you prepared for every circumstance that could ever happen in your life - but only with the Lord.
When we grow up, we make ourselves ready. We become wise in experience and are filled with knowledge. This prepares us for our futures and allows us help and strengthen others to get to theirs. Focus on Jesus, on the present, and on the here and now. Nothing will be able to stop you; no circumstance will be too big for you.
Without growing up, we will never reach our potential. Without growing up, we don’t find what we are meant to do. Without growing up, we don’t allow God to use us to His full capacity to complete His will to its entirety—we are cutting God short in our lives. So, grow up.
