“Lots of problems trouble us, of course, but they don’t motivate us enough to take action. However, when you feel so deeply about a problem that you’re inspired to get involved, that’s a calling.” – Patrick Morley – How God Makes Men
I think I’ve found my calling! Last month one of the things we did to invest in the community of Bokspits was to hold a discipleship workshop. When I initially signed up to lead it, I looked at it as a nice challenge, but soon realized that I knew nothing about discipleship! I thought since I’ve mentored people in the professional atmosphere I could totally draw on from those experiences. But I soon realized same same but very different. As I prepared for the workshop and prayed about what to say, God began to reveal to me exactly what it was all about.
Discipleship is simply an invitation to an authentic relationship. It’s fulfilling the commandment Jesus gave his disciples and all of us believers.
- “Go and make disciples.” (Matthew 28:19)
- “Teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others.” (2 Timothy 2:2)
- “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you [to make disciples]” (John 20:21)
- “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses.” (Acts 1:8)
Christianity is not a religion once found to be kept to ourselves. God has given us an opportunity to be His vessel to draw people into the kingdom of heaven. Jesus wants us to give Him our lives and then be the witnesses who tell other how they can follow Him too. Living a godly life is great! As they say actions do speak louder than words. But God also wants us to be intentional about making disciples of people. I like how Patrick Morley put it in his book How God Makes Men, “It is every Christian’s mission and duty to make disciples. Problems get solved when the right kind of people are trying to fix them.” (Why was I reading a man’s book?!? Well…let me explain. Lincoln would read to me paragraphs that inspired him and I loved them so I decided to read the book for myself.) As we live for Jesus and His glory, we should encourage other people to do the same!
Discipleship is something I’ve done in the past but never really recognized it as “discipleship.” The only difference now is that it is more intentional. I got the opportunity to put all the Lord showed me and I shared at the workshop into practice by discipling a young woman in the community. We would meet daily and I would simply just take time to share with her what the Lord is doing in my life and what He has taught me. I would share with her how to study the bible, how to pray, and some other spiritual lessons. It wasn’t always spiritually based, I was able to pour into her and share my wisdom on other matters like how to manage money, how to start a business, how to take care of your body, just to name a few things. Although I’m pretty young I was still able to draw on some life experiences and lessons the Lord has shown me over the years.
Although i really enjoyed my time with her, it wasn’t always easy. Sometimes she would be late, not prepared, or not show up to our meetings. But what the Lord taught me is that I have to be patient with people. I remember all the times I’ve strayed away and done something that I knew God was displeased with, but He was patient with me and never gave up on me. We should have the same attitude towards others. We must believe in them more than they believe in themselves. While discipling Rica something I also learned was it’s okay to allow people to stumble. It’s important for people to learn from their mistakes. If we always try to save them from making mistakes, they will never have the opportunity to grow. I’m happy to say that Rica is now leading the young adult small group and looking to take on more leadership within her church and community. I am really humbled and praise God that I was able to be part of her walk and help to lay a foundation which I know the Lord will continue to build!
So why am I passionate about this? I see discipleship as moral issue. When we decide to disciple others and enter into meaningful, intentional relationships we are helping them become who God has created them to be. The reason we have dysfunctional families today is the lack of discipleship. Younger men and women don’t have the sound direction they need from older people who are more mature in their faith. While some people’s livelihood or main ministry is discipleship, I strongly believe if we all choose to make the time and effort, we can see a change in our communities. Jesus said, “Love each other, just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” (John 13:34-35) Loving someone is more than just having warm feelings towards them. It is an attitude that reveals itself in actions. Discipleship is not always easy but it’s a life-long commitment that Jesus wants us to make in order to share his love with others and bring more people into His kingdom. All we have to do is say yes to the calling and make ourselves available, be an example, be open and vulnerable, invest in people's lives, be patient, and most of all point them to Jesus. I don’t know how this is going to look like when I return back to the states but I’m excited to see how God is going to use this passion that’s continually growing in me! Are you willing to be a part of God’s redemptive plan by pouring into someone else’s life?
With Love,
