Week 1 | Thursday
Being a disciple of Jesus is more than just following him. Lots of people followed Jesus during his earthly ministry. Huge crowds, even! Jesus was clear about the cost of following him, and many, many followers reached a point where the cost was higher than they were willing to pay. The ones who stuck it out, dug in, and did the work are called disciples.
This distinction between followers and disciples is still true today. Paul sums it up in Romans 12:1-21. Disciples place their everyday, ordinary lives before God as an offering, saying, “God, here’s my life. The big and small parts. The stuff I think is important and the stuff that isn’t. It’s all yours. I am giving it to you, trusting that you will do way more with it than I could ever do on my own. I trust you. Please bless it and do what you know is best.”
The following 10 characteristics describe attributes of Jesus’ disciples. They give a glimpse into what it looks like to place your life before God as an offering. Chances are you are doing well in some areas and have room to grow in others. Good news! You’re in good company! Not even Jesus’ 12 closest disciples batted 1000 on these. Yet, as we become more like Jesus and thereby become more faithful, we must also continue to grow in these attributes.
Disciples:
Seek and surrender.
Live like Jesus.
Follow the Holy Spirit’s leading every day.
Maintain healthy relationships.
Serve others with their gifts and abilities.
Use the Bible to guide their lives and worldviews.
Show compassion for the least of these.
Reflect God’s generous heart.
Tell others about Jesus with their words and actions.
Lead people into life with Jesus.
Reflect on this list and ask God to show you two things: (1) where you can grow and (2) where to start. Then, ask God to reveal your first step.