Cultivating Heart Postures for Effective Discipling
The Power of Prayer in Discipling
Discipling is not just about what we do, but also how we do it. It requires divine intervention, and prayer is essential in this process. Helping others become like Jesus is a hopeless endeavor unless God empowers our labors. Follow Paul’s example, who constantly remembered his disciples in prayer, night and day. Ask God to give you wisdom as you disciple others, and pray before, during, and after your time with them.
Intentional Investment in Others
Discipling won’t just happen; it requires intentionality. Jesus’s ministry demonstrates focused investment in his followers, preparing them to take the baton of gospel ministry to the nations. As you invest in others, ensure that you read, study, pray, encourage, and correct with the main aim of knowing Jesus and making him known. Be intentional about passing out opportunities to lead, allowing others to take charge and grow in their faith.
Embracing the Paradox of Discipling
Discipling requires us to serve in God’s strength, laboring for Jesus by depending on the one who tells us, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” We must raise the divine-strength-harnessing-sail through prayer, obedience, confession, and endurance, believing that God’s Spirit will empower our efforts and bear fruit.
Dynamic Discipling
Jesus’s discipling was dynamic, using every circumstance to apply God’s truth. He taught in various settings, from hillside to vineyard, and used positive and negative examples to illustrate his points. Discipling isn’t limited to reading the Bible over coffee; take walks, visit nursing homes, go shopping, or host a barbecue for unbelieving neighbors. The possibilities for connecting Scripture to the world around you are unlimited.
Urgency and Patience in Discipling
We’re not promised tomorrow, so we should help people follow Jesus with urgency. However, we must harness our urgency with patience, remembering that people change slowly. God often uses a crockpot, not a microwave. As you invest in others, remember that “love is patient” and that growing mature Christians takes time.
Overcoming Discouragement
Discipling can be discouraging, but we must allow God’s promise to inspire us. Remember that the power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in those we’re discipling, and in us. No sin is too strong, no depression is too deep, and no trauma is too terrible that God cannot deliver. Do not lose hope; God is always working in our lives and the lives of others, even when it’s tough to spot.
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