Disciplined Discipleship

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Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly

1 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)

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Discipleship. A relatively small word, for a such a large meaning. It gets thrown around a lot in Christian circles but doesn't seem to be a word used much in the contemporary world we live in. Over the generations, there have been many interpretations of what it means and how to be one. When looking into the make up of the word, it would be easy to see the likeness to the word - 'discipline'. In 1 Timothy, we see that we are to train, to 'discipline' ourselves in the ways of Christ. So, looking at the Oxford Dictionary, there are 4 definitions of discipline.

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1. the practice of training people to obey rules and orders and punishing them if they do not; the controlled behaviour or situation that is the result of this training

2. a method of training your mind or body or of controlling your behaviour; an area of activity where this is necessary

3. the ability to control your behaviour or the way you live, work, etc.

4. an area of knowledge; a subject that people study or are taught, especially in a university

(Oxford Learners Dictionary)

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To my mind, the first definition is similar to the rules and regulations found in the Old Testament. But, Jesus came and rewrote those rules, so by merging the final 3 definitions, we get close to the meaning of discipleship. The word disciple originates from two Latin words - 'discere' and 'discipulus'. These two words meaning to learn and learner, added with the old French word for discipline, and you arrive at the definition of a disciple. A 'disciplined' learner. One who learns and also acts upon the ways of Jesus Christ, training the mind and body, growing in Holiness to live a life glorifying God. And whilst it is true that when we become Christians we’re called to make disciples of others, we have to remember that discipleship has to start somewhere. Nobody becomes a disciple-maker overnight. God knows our hearts, He understands that we’re going to have to take little steps to get from A to B. So don’t let all the “make disciples” talk frighten you away from seeking Christ and becoming His disciple.

Discipleship. A small word, a big challenge. Over the course of the next few weeks, as we are locked down, take the time to reconnect to your discipleship journey. Here at Aspirational Living, we will be exploring different spiritual disciplines, sharing ideas, building on the word, and looking at how we can convert the truths of the Bible into our everyday lives. I would like to encourage you to sign up to the blog so that you don't miss a post during this time.

We are all called to follow Him. Will you?

Dear Lord,

In this time of fear, let me not be swayed off the path you designed for me.

Help me to use this time to further explore your calling on my life.

Help me to develop spiritual 'habits' so that when we are allowed to return to whatever the new normal may be, I am equipped to glorify you in all I do and fulfil 'the Great Commission' by being a disciple-maker.

Lord, give me the strength to see through the fog of fear and remain steadfast in my faith.

In Jesus' name I pray,

Amen

In the darkest hour, when I cannot breathe Fear is on my chest, the weight of the world on me Everything is crashing down, everything I had known When I wonder if I'm all alone

I remember, I remember You have always been faithful to me I remember, I remember Even when my own eyes could not see You were there, always there

Lauren Daigle