Introducing Maturity from a Life Model Perspective

Why do some very intelligent, well-meaning Christians struggle with relationships and responsibilities that should come naturally at their age?

Many believers focus heavily on character development—cultivating virtues like patience, kindness, and self-control—yet find themselves acting like children when life gets hard. The missing piece isn't more willpower or Bible knowledge. It's maturity.

In Maturity from a Life Model Perspective, author Mike Jones reveals a crucial biblical distinction that transforms how we understand spiritual growth. A three-year-old can display beautiful character—sharing toys, showing kindness, forgiving quickly—yet we'd never expect them to lead a family through crisis or provide wisdom to a community. Character and maturity are different, and both are essential.

Drawing from decades of neuroscience research and biblical wisdom, this book unveils the five progressive stages of maturity development and explains why many adults get stuck at earlier stages. You'll discover:

• Why "trying harder" doesn't work and what actually creates lasting change • The brain science made simple—how stress shuts down your "top floor" and what to do about it
• Practical steps for each maturity stage, from learning to receive (infant) to caring for community (elder) • How trauma creates gaps and the path to healing at any age • The secret of staying relational under pressure—the hallmark of true maturity

Whether you're a parent wondering why your teenager pushes your buttons, a leader struggling with difficult people, or someone who knows you're capable of more, this book offers hope. Maturity isn't about reaching a certain age—it's about developing capacities that allow you to be fully yourself, even when life gets hard.

The world needs who you're becoming. It's time to grow up—at any age.

Perfect for pastors, counselors, parents, and anyone committed to authentic spiritual formation.