22. The Hand Illustration - First Finger: Hearing
Purpose: The purpose of this session is to better understand the Bible through the use of “The Hand” analogy. The first step is to learn how to listen.
Objectives
1. The disciple will look at their hand and use it as a visual reminder of how to better grasp an understanding of the Bible.
2. The disciple will retain more of what they hear of the Word of God.
Scripture Memory
Consequently faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the preached word of Christ.
Romans 10:17
Agenda
1. Mutual prayer and sharing.
2. Discuss the readings.
3. Review Scripture Memory.
How do we learn about God, His truths, His will, His way? In these sessions we will use a physical metaphor for firmly grasping God’s Word: The Hand. The first finger, hearing, will prepare us for improved recollection of Scripture.
The “Hand” shows us the five methods of learning from the Bible. Each of these methods is important.
Copyright ©1976 The Navigators, re-printed with permission from The Navigators, all rights reserved and define the Illustration as the Word Hand Illustration.
Hearing
Hearing the Word from godly pastors and teachers provides us insight into others’ study of the Scriptures and stimulates our own appetites for the Word.
Reading
Reading the Bible gives us an overall picture of God’s Word. Many find a daily reading program helpful to take them systematically through the Bible.
Studying
Studying the Scriptures leads us into personal discoveries of God’s truths. Writing down these discoveries helps us organize and remember them better.
Memorizing
Memorizing God’s Word enables us to use the Sword of the Spirit to overcome Satan and temptations, to have it readily available for witnessing or helping others with a “word in season.”
Meditation
Meditation is the thumb of the Hand, for it is used in conjunction with each of the other four methods. Only as we meditate on God’s Word — thinking of its meaning and application to our lives — will we discover its transforming power at work in us.
Hearing — The First Finger
Three Problems of Hearers
There are problems related to hearing. These are well known to us all. We do not listen to our children, spouses, or to our friends. The simple matter of listening is a crucial problem in society today. Yet we are urged in Revelation to listen if we have ears to hear. Perhaps in listening to God we should play like we are a big ear. We should “open the pores of our skin” and listen. Yet we are simply poor listeners. How different this should be in relation to Scripture. We need to be ready and able to hear everything our Father would have us hear.
1. We remember only one half of what we hear immediately after hearing.
2. We remember less than 25% in a week.
3. The mind can think four times faster than we can speak. Therefore there is much leisure time and this contributes to the difficulty of being a good listener.
The Word makes the difference between mediocrity and productivity in the life. From the Book revival is born! Babies are made adults by the milk and meat of the Word.
Concerns in Handling the Word
1. Hearing the Word and not being a doer, James 1:22-25. Understand that hearing brings great responsibility for action. Study this passage carefully and prayerfully.
2. Studying and not rightly dividing, 2 Timothy 2:15. It is important to learn to interpret Scripture as correctly as possible, and not simply to pull out passages to support a pet theory.
3. Handling the Word of God deceitfully, 2 Corinthians 4:2 (without honesty).
Get, and make what you get to be your own. You will grow in terms of what you put into your life and being. Only what is yours will be significant.
Becoming a Good Listener
Here are some ideas for being a good listener.
1. Anticipate points. What is the speaker saying to you?
2. Weigh evidence for accuracy.
3. Listen between the lines.
4. Summarize what is said.
5. Listening is an active process—not passive. It is much different from watching television or looking at pictures. Your mind must be aggressive and active if you are to listen well. Make it aggressive!
Worksheet
Hearing is the first way we begin to get a grasp of the Word. Scripture related to hearing includes the following verses. What do they say?
Romans 10:17
James 1:22
Revelation 1:3
Revelation 3:6, 20
James 1:19
Analyze each of the previous verses and indicate in your own words the importance they attach to hearing the Word of God.
Summary and Key Concepts
In “The Hand” we learned a framework for personally gripping God’s Word: Hearing, reading, studying, memorizing, and meditating on Scripture. In “Hearing” we found that involving ourselves actively in listening best prepares us to understand the Bible, and then to be obedient and “show you my faith by my works,” James 2:18.
Life Application
Outline the sermon and Sunday School lessons you hear this coming Sunday. Practice some of the ideas we have suggested in this session. Immediately following the sermon and lesson, see if you can write a summary in your own words of what has been said. Try to get together with someone and discuss the learning.
Related Topics: Discipleship
25. The Fourth Finger: Memorization
Purpose: The purpose of this session is to enable the disciple to keep God’s Word ready for use in everyday life. The disciple will learn reasons for Scripture memory and see how to be successful at memorization.
Objectives
1. The disciple will be able to overcome obstacles associated with memorization.
2. The disciple will realize the vitality of memory activities.
3. The disciple will begin to look forward to doing memory work.
Scripture Memory
In my heart I store up your words, so I might not sin against you.
Psalm 119:11
Agenda
1. Mutual prayer and sharing.
2. Discuss the questions.
3. Review Scripture memory.
At this point in the ministry, you should be memorizing consistently and enjoying the process, as well as the results. There is nothing more gratifying than having the Word of God written on the tablets of our heart. As Jeremiah 15:16 says, it becomes the "joy and the delight of my heart." It equips us to meditate day and night, as well as to give an answer to everyone that asks us a reason for the hope that is in us. It is the method for making the Word a permanent and inherent part of our lives.
How to Be a Success at Scripture Memory
- Ask God to better enable you to memorize His Word, and ask Him to in crease your desire for this discipline.
- Work at it every day. Train your memory. It is good to try to set aside the same time and meet at the same place to work at Scripture memory.
- Don't overload yourself. Be content to do a little.
- Take pleasure in what you do… enjoy involvement with the Scripture.
- Learn with the idea of never forgetting. Don't cram just to be able to quote a verse to someone you are accountable to.
- Never take up a verse to memorize until you have thoroughly mastered a previous one.
Principles of Memory
I. Fixity of thought or attention.
A. Learn something you are going to use in the future. Be sure that what you memorize has practical value for you.
B. Close your eyes.
C. Practice reading the verse with the idea of concentration.
II. Have a clear concept of what you are memorizing—understand it. It may help to write it out in your own words.
III. Analyze what you want to learn.
IV. Use associations.
V. REVIEW!!!!!!!!! Develop a system in which you review daily, weekly, and monthly. Always return to daily review any verses you fail to quote correctly.
How to Succeed!
I. Recognize that there is no magic way to do it.
II. Realize that the average mind is lazy and must be stirred to action.
III. Determine to make the mind an obedient servant.
IV. Understand that first attempts are the most difficult.
V. Do thorough, rather than slipshod, work.
VI. Retain by review, review, review.
VII. Consider it a joy and pleasure to get the Word of God within you.
“It’s hard for the flesh to think God thoughts. It’s hard to concentrate on spiritual concepts. The brain doesn’t like to think, especially if its on spiritual matters. We like to sit down in a nice, soft chair in a cool breeze and float to heaven on a flowery bed of ease. I’m that way and I know that in life, there are a lot of things that come easy, but getting the Word of God on your heart through memorization isn’t one of them. Its spiritual. Anything spiritual is work, and my flesh and blood doesn’t like work. But it can be done, and we can do it!”
Dawson Trotman
Project: Get your memory verses in systematic order.
Scripture Memory Problems
The Back Review
I. Major Issues
A. You may have memorized too many verses on the same topic. Varied topics and their verses is best.
B. Your interest in Scripture memory wax and wane—it varies.
C. Review is not your priority. You're still trying to "catch it on the run".
D. Feelings of guilt. Not knowing all of your verses adequately, lack of consistency, poor review, you are embarrassed.
II. Building a Solid Back Review.
A. Set adequate objectives.
B. Retain the "right verses."
1. Those that have continued to be significant to you.
2. Those that apply to your ministry.
3. Those that you know will always be helpful in what you most want to do for the Lord.
C. Two parts of your review packet.
1. Those verses you really know perfectly.
2. Those verses you are still working on.
III. Objectives in Memorizing New Verses.
A. Why do you want to memorize this verse, passage or chapter? This understanding will help you in your choice as well as your memory.
B. Verses should have practical meaning for you.
Questions for Review and Discussion
1. First steps:
Have you selected a time each day for memory work? Jot it down and look back in a week or two to see if this is the optimal time for you.
Pace yourself. Overloading will frustrate you. Have you decided upon the number of verses you’ll memorize each week?
Organize yourself. Have you selected a memory system? If not, how are you organizing your efforts?
2. What do you want to memorize?
Why? What are your objectives?
3. What readings have you selected to support your memory objectives?
4. How will you document or keep track of the verses you memorize?
Related Topics: Discipleship
26. The Thumb: Meditation
Purpose: The purpose of this session is to realize that meditation is “soaking up” God’s word.
Objectives
1. The disciple will receive biblical instruction for meditation.
2. The disciple will experience meditation on Psalm 1.
3. The disciple will be prepared to meditate in Scripture.
Scripture Memory
I will meditate on your precepts and focus on your behavior. I find delight in your statutes; I do not forget your instructions.
Psalm 119:15-16
Agenda
1. Mutual prayer and sharing.
2. Discuss the worksheets in this session.
3. Review Scripture Memory.
Introduction
The thumb represents that which enables us to grasp firmly and get the most from the Word. This is the ongoing practice of meditation. It is interesting how meditation is central in the practice of many Eastern religions, and is also practiced by many for relaxation, etc. This is not what we are talking about. Meditation, in the sphere of our study of the thumb on the hand, is meditation on the Word of God and the Person of Jesus. It is not ambiguous but directed and focused.
Years ago, during the ministry of Dawson Trotman, I heard him give the following illustration of meditation. "A cow eats grass as it grazes early in the morning. When the sun gets hot, it will lie in the shade of a tree, and through the use of a unique elevator system it will bring up the grass from one stomach and thoroughly masticate it. When this is finished, it will put it into another stomach, having gotten from it everything possible in the way of nutrients." In some sense, this is a crude illustration of meditation. It is more than perusal. It is beyond rigorous study. It is literally living in a thought or verse from Scripture, allowing it to bathe us, to infiltrate our thinking and very being. It is soaking it up, drawing nourishment from it, and allowing it to become a part of us. It is filling our thoughts with our Savior's Person. In the passages that follow, there are biblical statements about meditation and the value in our lives that comes from this practice.
Worksheet
1. Joshua 1:8 tells us that we should meditate _______ and ________ . What is the result of meditating on the Word, according to this passage of Scripture?
2. Psalm 1:1,3 talks about the blessed or happy man. What does the "happy man" do?
What is the description of this man?
3. Psalm 19:14 speaks of our inner condition. What is the reference to meditation in this verse?
How can this become a reality for us? Philippians 4:8; Psalm 119:89.
4. Psalm 104:34 describes the quality of our meditation upon God and Christ. In your own words, write what the Psalmist says.
5. When is a good time to meditate in the Scriptures, Psalm 1:2; Psalm 63:6?
What is necessary for this kind of meditation on the Person of Christ, the Father, and Scripture?
a.
b.
c.
6. What progression of behavior is taught in 1 Timothy 4:13-15 that might relate to meditation?
1 Timothy 4:15 seems to imply that following meditation there should be _________________ and ______________________ .
Project for Meditation
Passage: Psalm 1
Read Psalm 1 twenty times slowly. Check the spaces off as you read.
( This is a blessed exercise, please don’t miss the value of it because of the time it takes.)
List the key words that impact you as you read this Psalm. You may want to use a dictionary to get a more expanded understanding. Think deeply about these words. What meaning do they have for you?
Words Personal Meaning
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Read the Psalm again slowly five times. _______ Check when finished.
In your own words, summarize the significant meaning(s) of this portion of Scripture.
To people experiencing what kind of circumstances would you highly recommend this Psalm and the exercise you have just gone through?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Passages for Future Meditation
Romans 8:1-4
Psalm 34
Psalm 37
John 15:1-14
Philippians 4:5-9
Colossians 3:1-4
Psalm 91
Hebrews 12:1,2
John 1:1-14
James 4:11-17
1 John 5:9-13
Romans 12:1, 2
Matthew 11:28-30
Galatians 6:1-5
Isaiah 53
John 10:27-30
Summary and Key Concepts
Meditation is not a study, as we have seen. Rather it is living in a thought or verse from Scripture. Our study can enhance our meditation, and vice versa. Memorization enhances both. Draw nourishment from God’s Word through the meditation He calls us to perform.
Related Topics: Discipleship
27. Review Questions
Purpose: The purpose of this session is to review the components of “The Hand.”
Objective
1. The disciple will review what has been learned of how to use your hand as a visual reminder of how to better grasp the Bible.
Scripture Memory
For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing even to the point of dividing soul from spirit, and joints from marrow; it is able to judge the desires and thoughts of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
Agenda
1. Personal interaction with disciple — prayer and sharing.
2. Discuss the Review Questions.
At this point, encourage regular Bible study using verse analysis and
S.T.S. methods of study, as a lifestyle from this point on.
3. Review Scripture memory.
1. List four or five things that can help you be a better listener.
2. What is the most ineffective way of getting a grasp of the Scriptures?
3. How does study differ from reading?
4. What are some of the chief problems in building an ongoing satisfactory system of Scripture memory?
5. We have sought to teach you ways of meditating in Scripture. What are some of the problems inherent in meditation without Scripture?
6. Why is meditation in Scripture important?
7. What are "cross references" and why are they helpful?
8. Define and illustrate meditation.
9. Please answer this question in a global sense: Why is getting a grasp on the Scripture so terribly important?
10. React to the following statement: "I have read the Bible through a couple of times. Now I want to read something new that will bring me new challenges."
Suggested Reading: Feeding Your Soul, Jean Fleming, NAVPRESS
Related Topics: Discipleship
Book C: Beginning Your Ministry
Related Media![](/assets/images/lifestyle_bookc.jpg)
The central teaching device as far as the materials are concerned are the worksheets. These have been put together in a way that becomes self-instructional and you can learn from them on your own. Absolutely correct answers to every question, or filling in blanks with exact wording is not crucial. Because of this, there is no answer manual. The discipler and disciple can adequately work out the responses that will be appropriate. The sessions as outlined in the module of material, if followed weekly as assigned, will take a person about a eighteen months to finish. It is unlikely, however, that it will proceed with no interruptions.
**You can download the entire book in PDF and work through each session.
Book A in this series may be found here.
Book B in this series may be found here.
Book D in this series may be found here.
Book B: Tools For Christian Growth
Related MediaLifestyle Discipleship is the theme of this group of studies. This is Book B: Tools For Christian Growth, which is the 2nd book in the four-book series. It is the author’s goal that you might catch the vision of an old principle taught in Scripture (Discipleship), and utilized in the early church, that you might integrate it into your life for ministry until the day you go to be with the Lord. We hope that with these helps you will be able to use the materials with maximum effectiveness. They have been prepared sacrificially and with great care over approximately thirty years. They certainly are not perfect, but we feel with adequate commitment on the part of disciple and discipler, you will find that they meet your particular need for growth in your development.
The central teaching device as far as the materials are concerned are the worksheets. These have been put together in a way that becomes self-instructional and you can learn from them on your own. Absolutely correct answers to every question, or filling in blanks with exact wording is not crucial. Because of this, there is no answer manual. The discipler and disciple can adequately work out the responses that will be appropriate. The sessions as outlined in the module of material, if followed weekly as assigned, will take a person about a eighteen months to finish. It is unlikely, however, that it will proceed with no interruptions.
**You can download the entire book in PDF and work through each session.
Book A in this series may be found here.
Book C in this series may be found here.
Book D in this series may be found here.
Book A: Basics For Christian Living
Related MediaLifestyle Discipleship is the theme of this group of studies. This is Book A: Basics for Christian Living, which is the 1st book in the four-book series. It is the author’s goal that you might catch the vision of an old principle taught in Scripture (Discipleship), and utilized in the early church, that you might integrate it into your life for ministry until the day you go to be with the Lord. We hope that with these helps you will be able to use the materials with maximum effectiveness. They have been prepared sacrificially and with great care over approximately thirty years. They certainly are not perfect, but we feel with adequate commitment on the part of disciple and discipler, you will find that they meet your particular need for growth in your development.
The central teaching device as far as the materials are concerned are the worksheets. These have been put together in a way that becomes self-instructional and you can learn from them on your own. Absolutely correct answers to every question, or filling in blanks with exact wording is not crucial. Because of this, there is no answer manual. The discipler and disciple can adequately work out the responses that will be appropriate. The sessions as outlined in the module of material, if followed weekly as assigned, will take a person about a eighteen months to finish. It is unlikely, however, that it will proceed with no interruptions.
**You can download the entire book in PDF and work through each session.
Book B in this series may be found here.
Book C in this series may be found here.
Book D in this series may be found here.
Book D: Building On Your Foundation
Related Media![](/assets/images/lifestyle_bookd.jpg)
The central teaching device as far as the materials are concerned are the worksheets. These have been put together in a way that becomes self-instructional and you can learn from them on your own. Absolutely correct answers to every question, or filling in blanks with exact wording is not crucial. Because of this, there is no answer manual. The discipler and disciple can adequately work out the responses that will be appropriate. The sessions as outlined in the module of material, if followed weekly as assigned, will take a person about a eighteen months to finish. It is unlikely, however, that it will proceed with no interruptions.
**You can download the entire book in PDF (click there to download) and work through each session.
Book A in this series may be found here.
Book B in this series may be found here.
Book C in this series may be found here.
28. Developing My Spiritual Genealogy
Purpose: The purpose of this session is to discuss various selection criteria that have been found to be effective in choosing the person to be involved with in discipleship.
Objectives
1. The disciple will understand that faithfulness is extremely important.
2. The disciple will understand that time is an important factor and will schedule sessions that are consistent with schedules of both the discipler and the disciple.
3. The disciple will see the value of “openness” in learning.
4.The disciple will understand commitment more fully, and will commit himself to discipleship.
Scripture Memory
And entrust what you heard me say in the presence of many others as witnesses to faithful people who will be competent to teach others as well.
2 Timothy 2:2
Agenda
1. Prayer and sharing.
2. Discuss readings.
3 Mutual sharing of Scripture memory verses.
4. Discuss new concepts for discipling.
5. Discuss thoroughly plans to begin meeting with the new disciple.
Considering Whom to Disciple.
Discipling takes time and I am commanded in Scripture to "make the most of the time because the days are evil," Ephesians 5:16. Whatever else this Scripture might mean, it does mean that I am to make the best use possible of my time.
I. I have only 24 hours a day. Some of this time is needed to survive in the world—to sleep, eat, exercise, etc. I need to support myself which supports my ministry. I can't personally help everyone.
II. The way I can approach helping everyone in my limited way is to be quite selective in relation to whom I disciple. Many people can become enthusiastic. A full-orbed ministry of discipleship tends to attract others who want to get on the bandwagon. Always remember, we want those who are faithful first of all. If they are also enthusiastic, this is fine.
III. To know who is faithful, I need to know them more than simply in a casual way. I must know them well. I must spend time with them in many areas of their lives.
IV. The process of getting to know people is somewhat time consuming. Be willing to spend this time simply for the purpose of not wasting time later. Remember, the one who becomes your disciple must not only meet the criteria of a disciple, but must also develop to do the same thing you are doing and share your heart’s burden for an entire area, indeed for the world. Consider the following:
A. Jesus spent all night in prayer before He invested His life in 12 men, Luke 6:12-13.
B. “Do not lay hands upon anyone too suddenly” 1 Timothy 5:22. Consider for a bit of time and pray.
C. Can the person I am going to commit myself to be faithful in the basics, and will he be able to "teach others also?" 2 Timothy 2:2.
V. Follow-up and Discipleship.
A. Follow-up is the process of helping a Christian grow personally in the basics. I follow-up a new believer, John 15:16.
B. Discipleship is the process of helping a Christian grow and help others grow in the same way. This involves the Lordship of Christ.
C. Follow-up can be done one-on-one or in small groups. In some cases, small groups may be better because of relationships that are built.
D. Discipling is best done "one-on-one."
Discipleship Evaluation
Questions to ask about future disciples:
1. When did the person trust Christ?
2. What is his/her educational background?
3. What is his/her work experience?
4. What major decisions have they faced?
5. What is the nature of their interpersonal relationships?
6. What ministry experiences have they had in the past?
7. What gifts or abilities do they have?
Present Circumstances
1. What areas are present struggles for him/her?
2. What are his/her present goals?
3. What are his/her ministry skills?
4. How is he/she doing in their work responsibilities?
Questions to ask yourself:
1. What gifts am I going to help him/her develop?
2. What kind of training situations have I considered for him/her?
3. What ministry skills will I be able to help him/her with?
What to Look for in a Timothy
For Man to Man (Follow-up as a Primary Focus)
1. With whom do I have a heart relationship?
What are the evidences of this?
2. Who evidences spiritual hunger?
What are the evidences of this?
3. Who demonstrates a heart for God?
Indicate evidences for this?
4. Who is available to receive personal help?
What makes you think this is true?
5. Who will respond to my modeling and leadership?
Why do you believe this?
6. Who is teachable?
List indications of this.
For Man to Man (Training as the Primary Focus)
1. Who demonstrates faithfulness to the basics?
Write those demonstrations.
2. Who demonstrates a heart for people?
What makes you think so?
3. Who demonstrates willingness for commitment of time to the ministry?
How is this demonstrated?
5. Who makes themselves available to help others?
How do they do this?
Remember, the person you spend time with must be able to "teach others also." 2 Timothy 2:2
Minimal Expectations for a Timothy
In anticipation of our discipling relationship, there are some minimal expectations I have which I will share with you right up front. These are the following:
I. I expect to see the characteristic of commitment demonstrated overall in your life. This includes your being willing to do the projects assigned to you, the memory work (this is an absolute must), a willingness to learn how and engage in active discipling yourself, and to read the assignments given you.
II. I expect you to be teachable. I also expect to learn from you in whatever ways the Holy Spirit sees fit to teach us. One of the ultimate goals is for both of us to have a servant’s heart.
III. I expect both of us to have a time commitment that is realistic. I will do my best to be on time for my appointment with you and I want the same from you. Time is of the essence in what we are doing. I am giving time— I expect it to be handled with care.
IV. I want to be a helper in your life. While we are involved in this kind of relationship, please be as open with me as you can. I will do everything in my power to help you emotionally and spiritually. I want to see you grow and reach the place where you will be able to reproduce your life in the lives of others.
V. Ask questions. Give suggestions. Help me know how I can be in your life in the most significant ways.
VI. I want to learn from you while we are in this relationship. Feel that you can share your ideas with me. I want to learn from what you think.
A Strong Suggestion
Be sure you discuss and elaborate all of these ideas with the person you are about to begin discipling. We should not, of course, be harsh. But we need to be "up front" and as honest as possible. Discuss them freely and openly.
Encouraging Optimum Growth
How To Set a Proper Climate for Learning
When we work with our first Timothy, many will be somewhat lost in knowing exactly how to proceed. This is, of course, a natural feeling. Most are not nor have they ever been teachers. The purpose of this paper is to give a few encouraging suggestions that relate to learning and the promotion of growth.
I. What is learning? Please consider that learning is not memorizing a number of facts and being able to restate them. Learning is the process by which we achieve higher forms of adaptive and creative behavior in our environment. It involves information that enables me to change how I function. Therefore, unless there is a change in my behavior, I haven't learned anything, even though I have in some way added some information to my present repertoire of facts.
II. What kind of atmosphere most encourages learning? Several things need to be mentioned here.
A. Acceptance is crucial. This means that I take my Timothy at face value as he is. He is unable to grow unless I accept him and his limitations now. As I create an accepting atmosphere now, he is enabled to grow more readily. This is "grace" as an attitude.
B. Closely associated with acceptance is the "right to fail" in a situation. Failure is not ultimate failure. Have we not heard of "trial and error learning"? Extending the right to fail will enable one to be more willing to tackle a difficult situation. And this is what we all need. It is simply the right or opportunity to try difficult things without being condemned if we do not succeed.
C. The above principle implies that there may be some anxiety involved in situations that result in failure. This is true. In many ways anxiety is crucial in a situation if true learning is to take place. Actually an effort without anxiety usually doesn't teach us anything.
III. Responsibility is an important factor if learning is to take place in a "one- on-one" session. It is the responsibility of the person being discipled to be accountable. It is the responsibility of the discipler to create a learning and growing situation in each session that takes into account the uniqueness of the individual being discipled—his needs, where he is in his walk with the Lord, and what his emotional state is. The discipler is to be willing to share his life significantly with the one being discipled.
IV. Remember! If you can help another grow emotionally and spiritually, you have achieved something significant for eternity.
V. Allow your disciple to participate. You are not giving a lecture. This might better be described as "interactive time."
VI. Be sure to set an adequate example for all that you want a disciple to do. Modeling is significantly important in this ministry. Set the pace!
VII. Be open—be transparent. Let your feelings show through.
VIII. Don't expect any failures or dropouts.
An Atmosphere That Encourages Growth and Learning
Those of us who have responded to the individual needs of another are often asked to do something in that process that is new and difficult. Most of us do not think during the normal course of our lives about facilitating growth in another person. We simply interact in the course of our daily involvements and some people grow, others remain quite the same, and there are those who leave us and our interaction from time to time "the worse for wear."
I am not asked in the process of discipling another to make that person or shape that person into something I think might be good, nor am I asked by our Father to shape him into a "little me." And, while it is true that I will model things for the person I am involved with, it is also true that this person has a uniqueness about himself, and is to ultimately be a "little Christ," not a little Emery Nester (God forbid!) or whoever we might be.
It is imperative to remember that the Holy Spirit is in this person, and He is the ultimate Shaper and Teacher of this individual. If there is any role I play in the life of this individual, it is that of a facilitator of the Holy Spirit in his life. I am a very real person myself, in whom the Spirit of Christ dwells, and fellowship is a true human need. The disciple needs to know me as a human who can work in cooperation with the Holy Spirit and facilitate the ground made ready by Him for change. I need to remember that it is His will to bring to completion the work He has begun. Indeed, Philippians 1:6 strikes this note loud and clear: "For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." And in the process of that ongoing work, He develops the person exactly as God has purposed, in order that he might fit into the Body of Christ most effectively and efficiently.
The uniqueness of an individual in the Body of Christ is taught in Romans 12:3-6, where we are told that we each have different gifts and therefore different places in the Body. Hear the words as Paul says, "And since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let each exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches in his teaching; or he who exhorts in his exhortation…” Without a willingness to develop someone uniquely, we can be responsible in unusual ways for the crippling or abnormal development of the Body of Christ, as well as for an individual being aberrant in his own development and functioning. Having said these things, let's look for a moment at the nature of learning.
What Is It to Learn?
Most of us have the idea that learning is the accumulation of facts that we "learn" and are able to regurgitate effectively when we are asked to do so. This idea is related to Thomistic concepts of learning embodied in a philosophy of education called Perennialism. Most of us have experienced this as an educational procedure in our formal school experiences.
While learning usually does involve a body of information, its true nature is much different. Please consider again that learning is not memorizing a number of facts and being able to "recite" them. Regardless of the amount of information I have, if it doesn't change my behavior, I haven't learned a thing. Therefore, let us define learning as the achievement of higher forms of adaptive and creative behavior. It involves information that enables me to change how I function, and when this change takes place, I have then learned something and function more efficiently. This is certainly not said in a way that would purposely disparage the accumulation of information. Information is a basis for our becoming aware, and it is important to receive and increase our pool of information. And when we consider Scripture, it is even more significant. Jesus said, "The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life," John 6:63. In Hebrews 4:12, the writer says, "For the Word of God is living and active," and in John 15:3, Jesus says, "You are already clean because of the Word which I have spoken to you." It is doubtful (though theoretically possible) that many people could get the Word of God into them without that Word having some effect or impact for change in their lives. For this reason, memorization of the Scriptures is important. But true learning must result in more efficient behavior. Without the modification of behavior, very little learning has taken place though I may have added significantly to my present repertoire of facts or information.
Please allow me to illustrate this principle I have just been speaking of in the previous paragraph. I understand from Scripture that I am to be in relationship with Jesus Who is to be LORD of my life, Romans 10:9. "That if you confess with your mouth, Jesus as Lord,"… says Paul. I understand from Romans 6 that I died with Christ and have risen to newness of life. These are facts—truths from the Word of God. But just knowing these things does not necessarily make me begin to live under the Lordship of Jesus. I must make a decision with my will—an act of my own volition, if you will, and begin to live with Christ as Lord. As I do this, it might rightfully be said that I have learned something because my behavior is now changed in this respect.
Acceptance—An Overriding Principle
It would be ridiculous to ignore the centrality of the quality of the interpersonal relationship between discipler and disciple. Reviews of the literature that relate to effective learning and teaching indicate over and over again the importance of the interpersonal relationship between teacher and those who are considered students. Therefore, it is appropriate for us to look carefully at those things that will enhance the quality of the relationship. In the forefront of such variables is the matter of acceptance.
There is nothing that is as crucial as "taking a person as he is." My Timothy is a learner. He is not what he will be in the future. But he is at this very moment a real, live, and warm person with a heart for God and a desire to grow and serve. And I must love him for what and who he is, just as he is. When we look at Scripture, we see that this is descriptive of the love of God. Grace is receiving us without demands to be other than we are. And "grace" in the psychological sense is nothing more than simple acceptance. It is saying, "You are acceptable to me now," or "I receive you as you are at this moment." This kind of attitude must characterize the discipler or there will be very little growth and facilitation of the work of the Holy Spirit. Those we meet with must experience grace as an attitude and atmosphere if true growth and learning is to take place.
The Right to Fail
Throughout my sojourn with Christ, I have experienced failure. It is common to fall on one's face in dismay. But this is the experience of life and it has been true of everyone who is human. Failing is a sort of "right" we possess as human beings. There is an attitude relating to acceptance that has to do with failure. I have found that giving the right to fail—to be imperfect… to try again… to approach something in a different way, is a jewel in the entire saga of trying to learn and move toward maturity. Do we not know of "trial and error" learning? Does failure speak of ultimate failure? Are we attempting to teach that we should never fail in this entire process of growth and development? Having a somewhat unproductive meeting with a person because I did not think through well enough what we were to do does not mean that I will never try again. Nor does it mean that I am not nor cannot be an efficient discipler of people. It simply means that I must try another way to do what I want to do.
Criticism discourages the feeling of acceptance. Description of a situation, on the other hand, encourages the atmosphere of acceptance. Disliking because of failure, devaluing the worth of someone because he fails to quote a verse correctly, or harshly reprimanding someone because his preparation was not up to our expectations is not biblical exhortation, nor does that kind of behavior edify, build up, or encourage.
It is imperative that I give my disciple the freedom to fail in aspects of the work we do together. As I give him this, there will be more freedom to be creative and develop areas in his own life that will otherwise lie dormant. Remember the words of the Psalmist, "When he falls, he will not be hurled headlong, because the Lord is the One who holds his hand" Psalm 37:24. Are we to do less for a disciple who stumbles and fails?
Some may object to this and bring up the whole matter of excellence. It may be argued that to allow someone to fail is disregarding the goal of excellence. This is not true, of course. Excellence is not perfection. Nor is excellence the process, but rather the goal. If excellence for the Savior is a reasonable goal, surely it includes the development of our own uniqueness. I have been watching Kara, my granddaughter, begin to walk. She will stand for a while only to learn she is "bottom heavy" and down on her seat she goes. She will try again and go forward too fast and land on her tummy. Should there be a demand for excellence at this point in her learning to walk? Of course not. We laugh, pick her up and encourage her to try again. And she will eventually walk with excellence.
The Right to Fail and Anxiety
When the "right to fail" is talked about, it would be important to mention anxiety. When we try things that are new, there is almost always a certain amount of anxiety. Change produces anxiety, so growth which produces change in us spiritually and emotionally will also produce some anxiety, simply because it is new.
In many ways, this anxiety is crucial and important in the entire process of growth. For one thing, some anxiety calls from me more than I would ordinarily give to a new situation. And this is necessary, because if there is no anxiety at all, there will probably be very little change. One area where this is known to be true is in the area of self-concept (which is an area of concern in Scripture). Scripture tells me that I need to think of myself realistically,
Romans 12:3. And remember Jesus telling us that we should "love our neighbor as ourselves." This certainly suggests that we should not derogate ourselves, but rather think positively of ourselves, as if to place a premium on improvement in the areas of self-image. And how does this improvement come? Certainly not through "self-talk." Trying to convince myself of something that I have not experienced is absurd! But to experience something different that has some anxiety connected with it, will change how I see myself. Actually an effort without anxiety usually doesn't teach us anything. But the anxiety should not be overwhelming, nor should it be induced by the discipler.
The Importance of Cognitive Flexibility
If a situation is to produce learning to its fullest, there must be a willingness to meet the personal needs of the disciple. This means that although I have thought through what I am going to do for the session I have planned, it is going to be important that I be flexible enough to scrap those plans if my disciple has an apparent need in another area. This speaks to the need of our being "disciple-centered" rather than "discipler-centered." I will never say, "Let's shelve that and consider it at some other time." Interaction is important and it is crucial that I learn how to produce that interaction that becomes profitable for the growth of both my disciple and myself. Literature on effective teaching indicates that cognitive flexibility is extremely important in effective learning situations. So if I am to be an effective facilitator of learning, I must learn this spontaneous flexibility. And in this context, let me say that some of the most profound things I have learned as a discipler have been learned from someone I was spending time with in this kind of setting. The discipler is a learner as well.
A Word about Responsibility
Responsibility is a paramount factor in individual learning situations. It is important for me as a discipler to be responsible to get to know my disciple. It is crucial that I pay attention to him—to focus on him totally during the time we spend together. After all, what less could really be considered the sharing of my life? It is also necessary for me to be responsible for creating the atmosphere that will set the stage for growth to take place in the lives involved (his and mine).
In similar ways, it is the responsibility of the one being discipled to be accountable for what he has agreed to do with his life. Being a disciple is not a laizze-faire type of situation. It is "taking up our cross and following Jesus." If one is not willing to be responsible, he is not ready to have another share his life with him in this way.
Summary and Key Concepts
I have endeavored to present some ideas related to creating an atmosphere that will truly help one grow—one in which significant learning can take place. There are some summary ideas I would like to add that are for our instruction and mutual encouragement.
If I can help or assist in the spiritual growth and productivity of another person, I have done something that will be significant for all eternity. There is no ministry any more significant than the investment of your life in the life of another to the end that that person becomes a disciple for Christ. John says in 3 John 4, "I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth." In terms of investment, there is nothing we can do that brings greater satisfaction and joy, as well as lasting fruit for all eternity.
Our modeling is significant. Paul urged those he was involved with to be followers of him. This is a risky admonition. Few of us would dare make this suggestion to those we are discipling, yet we know the supreme importance of modeling. Water never runs higher than its source. I cannot expect those I am discipling to experience greater spiritual maturity than I have reached. On the positive side, however, my life lived in all diligence and faithfulness will have a positive impact on those with whom I am involved.
It is important that the discipler be transparent. No one can be well-rounded as a spiritual believer without learning to be honest—to be authentic. I need to be honest about my mistakes and failures and take responsibility for them. I need to let my feelings be present and under the control of the Holy Spirit. When I am sad, I need to be sad. When I am glad, I need to learn to jump up and down and appreciate the feeling of gladness. If I am angry, I may as well deal with it, because it will surely distort my life if I try to repress those feelings. Being in touch with these aspects of my life will enable me to live an honest life and teach my disciples to do the same. And in doing this, I help him know the all-pervasive attribute of God, TRUTH!
Learn to be a better listener than a talker. This means that I will allow my disciple to lead when we are together. In this way, I encourage his uniqueness and facilitate the work of the Holy Spirit as He seeks to develop this person. We are not to meet and give lectures. This is at best interactive time… a time of mutual sharing. This is extremely important to remember.
And finally, don't expect any failures or dropouts. Being a failure is not the same as failing. At this point we are talking about ultimate failure and never returning to the "plow." Somehow we can set people up by our expectations of them. If I just dismiss from my thinking that someone with whom I am meeting is going to be a dropout, it is less likely to happen. I eliminate "self-fulfilling prophecies," which are factors in the behavior of individuals.
Therefore, let us give honest and particular attention to "climates" that we create when we meet with another person. It is crucial that I involve myself in this as tenaciously as I can. All the preparation for meeting, excellent ideas to transmit, and the most eager heart can readily be neutralized by a climate that does not facilitate the work of the Holy Spirit and true learning.
Developing Your Spiritual Genealogy
In order to accomplish the task of total evangelism of an area, it is necessary to plan and organize for efficient movement toward the goal. One of the most important things needed is a plan to personally and efficiently give support to our developing spiritual “tree” which each will help bring into existence as our spiritual family enlarges.
When you become a disciple, you are a member of the spiritual genealogy of your discipler. Your discipler is responsible in many ways from this point for your spiritual care. When you become a discipler yourself, you are directly responsible to the one you are discipling for spiritual care, encouragement, exhortation, and anything else that might assist in his nourishment in the Body.
We want to list some things that are important for you to do perpetually. These are probably minimal. In whatever way you can creatively enlarge this list, by all means do it. Follow through with whatever you come up with. None of us has all of the good ideas concerning how to protect and nourish our spiritual genealogy.
I. We need to pray regularly for those who have been discipled and who are part of our family tree.
II. Keep in touch with them regularly and continue to help them in ways that will enable them to walk efficiently in the Spirit.
III. Encourage person to person fellowship. Invite them to a dinner or luncheon, or breakfast, or something that will enable them to have continuing fellowship.
IV. Write letters and use the telephone and e-mail.
V. Learn to listen to them as they talk with you.
VI. The needs of each person are unique. We need to learn to prepare special studies that will facilitate their learning in areas in which they have special need. An example of this might be the area of parent-child relationships as taught in Scripture, or the area involving relationships with the government of one’s own state or city. Every discipler should make a life-long project of adequately providing for the means of growth for each disciple.
VII. There should be opportunities for you to give ongoing help to anyone having difficulty in their own discipling process. As you look over your spiritual descendants, make yourself available to anyone having problems in their own unique circumstances. You will share in this with other disciplers because each of us needs to be responsible to another for such help. When a discipler is farther removed, he should continue to be interested and involved.
VIII. If you see a problem with someone you have responsibility for and do not know how to handle it, always feel free to ask someone else who is involved in this ministry. At some point, we are going to develop a “hot line” for disciplers. Until then, feel free to call Emery Nester or any of the board members or disciplers you feel might be able to help you.
IX. Above all, trust Philippians 1:6. The Holy Spirit’s interest in completing this work is much greater than our own interest and desires. He will bring to perfection and keep those in whom He has begun His work.
X. Develop a spirit of independence in the sense that you can find materials or make materials that can meet the individual need of those you are discipling.
On the following pages you will find a spiritual genealogy for you to fill in. It will be important for you to keep track of your children in the faith and pray for and encourage them. When you experience times of discouragement, remember your genealogy. Only eternity will reveal the full extent of your investment in lives.
“For who is our hope or joy or crown of exultation?
Is it not even you, in the presence of our Lord Jesus at His coming?
For you are our glory and joy.
1 Thessalonians 2:19-20
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Session 28
Preparation for Discipling
• 28 Developing My Spiritual Genealogy
• 29 Early problems of a New Discipler
Developing My
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Preparation for Discipling
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The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.
2 Timothy 2:2
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Lifestyle Discipleship Session 28
The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses,
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faithful men who will be able to teach
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2 Timothy 2:2
Developing My Spiritual Genealogy
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“For who is our hope or joy or crown of exultation?
Is it not even you, in the presence of our Lord Jesus
at His coming?
For you are our glory and joy.
1 Thessalonians 2:19-20
Follow-up Notes:
Date, and Purpose: __________________________________________
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Related Topics: Discipleship
29. Early Problems Encountered by a New Discipler
Purpose: The purpose of this session is to help the new discipler face some realities that relate to the new relationship he is about to undertake.
Objectives
1. The disciple will be able to understand your feelings and thoughts more clearly.
2. The new discipler will be able to encourage the new disciple and work through his problems scripturally.
3. The new disciple will be better prepared to keep this new relationship “on track.”
Scripture Memory
So we must not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who belong to the family of faith.
Galatians 6:9
Agenda
1. Prayer and sharing.
2. Discuss the worksheet.
3. Discuss the questions.
4. Review memory work.
Worksheet
This is a summary of typical problems encountered by the new discipler. The day has finally come when you are about to begin with your own person. Your spiritual genealogy is initiated. What are you feeling?
I. You may have many things in your mind as you begin. Perhaps the most common thought is that of personal inability in doing this. "Can I really do this?" "Will I be able to answer all the questions that arise?" These are natural feelings and questions because most of us have never done anything like this before. New experiences that are different tend to traumatize us, especially if others are involved.
Read carefully the following verses: Amos 7:14-15; 2 Corinthians 4:7; 12:7-9. What enabling truths come from these verses from Scripture?
A
B.
C.
D.
When God chose an instrument to use in the hand of Aaron, He did not choose a "silver shaft." His choice was rather simply a stick! When He looks for men and women to use today, He looks once again for "sticks" that He might fashion. The latter part of 2 Corinthians 4:7 tells us why this is true. What does it say?
II. A second problem discussed is a purely functional problem. The first thing a new discipler must do is set a time for the meeting. This will be more difficult than it seems, but once a time is set, it must be rigidly kept. Some of the problems involved are interruptions that come into a person's life. There are emergencies that no one can help. But it is also true that most interruptions are not emergencies, and if many of these interrupt a schedule, it will certainly impair the process and keep the benefit to a bare minimum. It can even become detrimental to the entire discipling process. So, it is important to begin with a firm commitment that will tolerate only a rare interruption. Anything short of this can be chaotic. In some cases, the meeting time originally selected will become a problem. Rather than insisting on meeting at that time, seek a mutually agreeable time that will continue to meet your needs.
III. Another common problem related to antiquated teaching processes is the belief that the discipler is to talk, to lecture, to "present a lesson." One of the serious errors is that of talking a lot, of trying to convince of a point in the session, and as a result end in dominating the session. Remember that interaction is your chief method in working with your disciple. Let him talk, question, elaborate, apply. Use the discussion questions that are found at the end of each session to facilitate this interaction.
IV. A very common feeling a new discipler has is one of losing heart, or being discouraged. Galatians 6:9 encourages us in what way?
We are doing far more than simply being in the same geographic area as the person we are discipling. We are modeling faithfulness, and it is important to know that our disciple is learning from us what it is like to disciple by being discipled himself. We are also developing the gift of exhortation in that we are learning to be with another person. It is common for spirits to lag, and feelings to sag. Pick yourself up and determine that you are not going to be the link that fails in our determined effort to win the world to Jesus Christ.
V. Difficulty in Scripture memory is a common problem. This is why we are willing to give an individual about five months before we seriously considering dropping him for not memorizing Scripture. We know it is difficult for some to do.
The important thing is to model, as well as to keep encouraging and share the value of doing it in your own life. Remember that you will be really useful as a personal witness to others only as you are immediately prepared to share Christ and the Word in everyday situations. If one can remember his name, where he lives, and his telephone number, he can remember verses as well.
VI. What are some of the problems you anticipate as a new discipler? List these and discuss them with your discipler.
A.
B.
C.
Finally, it is important that there be some anxiety as you meet with another person. Without some anxiety, an experience usually gives us no movement in our personal growth and development. We seem to put more into an experience in which we are somewhat not totally at ease.
How to Impact the World Through Effective Discipleship
This is a thought that challenges me. I have been thinking of these issues for so many years. I am ashamed that I have not worked at this until the last two decades. We have set a goal to reach the entire world. That means that by the year 2013, every individual in our state will have been discipled. Our country comes next, and the world is within our reach because Jesus told us to do this, Matthew 28:19-20.
I. The goal—is it reasonable or just presumptuous? Didn’t Jesus describe the narrow gate as being something that few would find? What is the narrow way? Matthew 7:14. Does the reality that few find it cause us to limit what God can do in our thinking? What are some of the reasons why we might limit God in our thinking?
Some will say, we are really ____________ to accomplish a goal like that, 2 Corinthians 3:5. Yet our sufficiency should never be a consideration. God has told us to reach the __________ parts of the world with our message, Acts 1:8. We know that He has chosen the _____________ things of world to ________ the things which are ___________, 1 Corinthians 1:27. God delights to use those who are willing to submit to Him, irrespective of their abilities.
Some may complain that a plan such as we are using sounds like some businesses today. In reality, who is copying whom? ___________________________ The multiplication plan is found in Scripture in several places. Look, for instance, at 2 Timothy 2:2-3. What plan does this suggest? What plan did the apostle Paul use? _______________ Acts 19:9-10. As he ministered and taught daily, ________ _________ heard the message.
A common complaint of some people is the lack of time. There just isn’t the time in my schedule to do something like working to reach the entire world. Of course, we all have just 24 hours a day. Of course, we have to support our families. We are told that to not do this is to be worse than a heathen. A stark and direct question comes from Jesus concerning this. Mark 8:36 asks the question that unmistakably involves time. What does it ________ a man to gain_______ _________ ________ and lose his soul? If you are too busy with your work or schedules to participate in an effort to reach the world, you need to withdraw for a while, look at your life and reprioritize your life and goals. Indeed, if this is not at the forefront of your life, you are walking on the wrong path as far as the will of God is concerned.
The fact that Jesus spoke of few that would enter the narrow gate might be a problem that you have wrestled with. It is true that ultimately there will be fewer saved than those who come to Christ. That is the business of the Father, not mine. His sovereign power is ultimately the factor involved in any one coming to Christ. There is, however, a compelling factor that offsets this argument. For whom did Christ die? 2 Peter 3:9 says, “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not_________ for_________ to perish, but for ______ to come to repentance.”
Through the death of Jesus, God was _____________ ______ ________ to Himself, 2 Corinthians 5:19. The moment Calvary was accomplished, reconciliation of God to ______ _______ took place. The world needs to know this and you and I are the ambassadors to carry the gospel to them.
Some might ask the question “what about the Moslems, Hindus and Buddhists? Are they not part of the throng for whom Christ died?” What do we see in 1 John 2:2?
Others might say that there is no way we can reach and disciple the entire world. If we cannot reach all, how about three fourths, or one half, as we try to reach them all? The chief way we can value His atonement is by attempting to reach all.
II. What are the hindrances to impacting or reaching the world?
A. Lack of ___________, Proverbs 29:18. Vision can provide motivation.
B. Lack of ____________ or concern, Romans 9:2-3.
C. Lack of ____________,Daniel 1:8. The resolve made by Daniel was a fitting thing to purpose in his heart. What are your commitments today?
D. A lack of understanding of proper __________, 2 Corinthians 5:19-20. Why has the Father brought me to life?
E. The “tyranny of the urgent.” Read that article in the appendix. (Book A)
III. What must we do? A summary!
A. The principle of multiplication must be used.
B. We must each share the burden of “lifestyle discipleship.” It must be part of our lifestyle. We must be committed to it for a lifetime.
C. Every disciple disciples someone else without exception.
D. Train each one to learn to witness.
E. Emphasize the importance of knowing doctrine.
F. Talk of total evangelism and work toward it.
G. Make Scripture memory a lifetime goal: saturate yourselves with Scripture.
H. Continually work toward solving the problem of not getting beyond the third generation. Brainstorm, plan, strategize.
Questions for Review and Discussion
1. For what reasons would God desire to use those who basically have very little or no ability in themselves?
2. The person you are discipling seems to continually need to move his appointment to another time. He will occasionally miss an appointment. What are some steps you can take to deal with this?
3. You are feeling rather discouraged and tired. There is a temptation to quit the ministry of discipling, or at least shelve it for a bit. What should you do?
4. How can someone having difficulty with memory work be encouraged?
5. If you have struggled through this session, what do you feel your heart is saying to you as you have done this assignment?
6. What valid excuses have we not covered?
7. What new commitments do you feel you can make?
Summary and Key Concepts
The task of discipling is something that must be learned, and in many ways, it is unlike other things we have done in our lives. Learning to disciple is being able to handle certain types of problems that are typical in every interpersonal relationship when one attempts to share his life with another person.
We feel that almost everyone can learn to share his life with another in this significant way. One of the problems often encountered, however, is the question "am I really able to do this?" It is good to remember that our God doesn't ask us to do things for which He has not equipped us. He has told each of us to be disciplers, and He is able to help us do that. We should remember that God typically chooses simple things to confound the wise. He chooses those in whom His power can be demonstrated. Simplicity or inadequacy is not a deterrent to becoming a good discipler.
The matter of time is also crucial. Everyone has just 24 hours a day in which to accomplish the necessary things of life. Missing appointments, or changing appointments often can be solved by reevaluating and increasing the level of commitment the individual has.
Another common problem has to do with "teacher centered" as opposed to "student centered" methods of meeting with another person. It should always be remembered that following the disciple and helping him with his needs is superior to making the disciple discuss what you want to discuss or listen to what you have to say.
Other problems relate to losing patience or growing weary, and having difficulty with the memory work at the beginning. Remember that growth takes lots of time, and getting involved adequately with Scripture memory is something we will struggle with for most of our lives. All of these things, as well as the anxiety they create, make discipling not only an enriching experience, but one that will truly shape other lives in honor and obedience to our Heavenly Father.
Related Topics: Discipleship