Heart Of Discipleship

 

The Heart of Discipleship

In light of our country's major elections just finished, and anticipation running wild, I wanted to create a motivational message, and what better topic than: "In the garden where hope, patience, and love grow, the most beautiful miracles bloom."

In the garden of faith, hope takes root,
Patience waters, love bears the fruit.
In God's time, all things will bloom,
Miracles rise, dispelling gloom.

Opening Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of anticipation and trust. As we explore the virtues of hope, patience, and love, we ask for Your guidance and wisdom. Fill us with Your Spirit, that we may grow in these virtues and reflect Your love to the world. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Church History: The early church, especially during times of persecution and uncertainty, deeply relied on the virtues of hope, patience, and love. The Apostles, facing immense trials, continually encouraged believers to hold steadfast in their faith. They understood that true strength and resilience came from trusting in God's timing and His immense love for humanity. Their writings and teachings have inspired countless generations to cultivate these virtues in their own lives.

Devotion Content:

Conversion and Acceptance: The journey of discipleship begins with the acceptance of Christ as Savior, marked by conversion. This is the entrance into the faith and Christian life, which goes beyond just saying one is a Christian.

• "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17, ESV)

Baptism: Baptism is seen as initiation and public dedication, marking the beginning of the discipleship journey. It is both a profession and a testimony of faith.

• "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 28:19, ESV)

Ongoing Growth and Learning: A disciple grows in Christ and continuously learns the precepts of the Bible, engaging in prayer, doctrine, relationship building, Christian living, service, and worship.

• "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen." (2 Peter 3:18, NIV)

Christian Living: True discipleship involves living a Christ-like life in all matters, not just within the church. This encompasses transformation, repentance, and making God the priority.

• "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." (Galatians 2:20, ESV)

Service and Love: Disciples are called to love, edify, and serve others as led by God. This includes using their gifts to serve others and fostering relationships within the community.

• "For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another." (Galatians 5:13, ESV)

Obedience and Accountability: Obedience to God's will is crucial, which involves submission, surrender, and compliance. Accountability with godly authority is also emphasized.

• "If you love me, you will keep my commandments." (John 14:15, ESV)

Making Disciples: Disciples are tasked with making other disciples by sharing the gospel, teaching others to think, feel, and act as Christians. This involves both personal growth and helping others grow in their faith.

• "And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also." (2 Timothy 2:2, ESV)

Church Involvement: Being a part of a Christ-centered church community is important for mutual growth, support, and fulfilling the Great Commission. The process of discipleship is a lifelong commitment and involves active participation in the local church body.

• "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)

Since my goal writing as God's Journalist has primarily always been to be obedient to sharing the Good News, I have also been sensitive to sharing what I believe the Holy Spirit is prompting me to share, thus I want to say 💭: In these times of political and social changes, let us remember that our true hope is in God's unchanging nature, our patience is a testament to our faith, and our love is a reflection of His infinite love for us. May we continue to grow in these virtues, bearing witness to His grace and mercy in our lives.

Closing Prayer: Gracious Lord, thank You for the hope, patience, and love You pour into our hearts. Help us to remain steadfast in hope, patient in trials, and loving in all our interactions. May we be beacons of Your light in this world, reflecting Your glory through our lives. In Jesus' precious name, we pray. Amen.

Credits:

• Written by Otto Brinkmeier
• Grammarly
• AI Type Keyboard Plus

God’s Journalist.