Encouraging Word
A recipe is a set of instructions for preparing something; a method to attain a desired end; a formula that produces anticipated outcomes. A disciple is a student that receives teaching and training. I suggest there are four active ingredients that make a Christian disciple: Focus, Follow, Faithful and Fruitful.
- Focus means to have clear vision; a fixed gaze; to look intently; to give your full attention to. Hebrews 12:2 says, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith …” You need to beware of some hindrances to staying focused. They are distraction, detour, doubt and discouragement.
- Follow means to move behind in same direction; to acknowledge authority; to conform to and comply with. A Christ-follower must submit to and stay close to Jesus as He leads. In Matthew 16:24, Jesus says to “Follow Me.”
- Faithfulness is also an ingredient to discipleship. To be faithful is to be true, reliable, dependable and loyal. To be found faithful one must be dedicated, disciplined, determined and devoted. In II Timothy 4:7, the Apostle Paul said, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
- Fruitful means to be productive; to cause results. Galatians 6:7 says, “. . . A man reaps what he sows.” There is a sowing principle that says: you reap what you sow; you reap after you sow; and you reap more than you sow. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the spiritual fruit that should be evident in the Christian’s life. It says the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
As a Christ-follower, make sure you have the spiritual recipe for discipleship that includes these ingredients: stay focused on Jesus; follow His lead; remain faithful; and be fruitful.
-Tony Cooper
Celebrating 27 Years of Service as Exec. Director, Jimmie Hale Mission
