Spiritual Insights

What does it mean to be a disciple? This is a really good question and one that you might get several answers on. There are tons of curriculums available along with 10 easy step programs, but what does it really look like to call yourself a disciple? I had the Holy Spirit ask me this exact question recently and I’ll share briefly what I uncovered.

The easiest definition of the word disciple is, pupil. Basically someone applying what they learn into everyday activities.  My advice, before you decide you want to be one,  know what you're committing to. My oldest son always says “read them the fine print before they decide to follow Jesus.”

That may sound like an odd comment but the truth is before marriage we weigh out all the pros and cons of our betrothed so when we say I do, we do.  How much more important your decision making Jesus the Lord of your life!

Jesus doesn’t command us to make converts or Christians he commands us to follow Him and make disciples.

Matthew 16:24-26  Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

Matthew 28:19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

It’s not how much of the bible we know, it’s how much we obey. Living a life of devotion to Jesus is discipleship. We have to ask ourselves how much time do we spend each day reading the bible (the how to manual) to even know what following requires.  Jesus asks us “why do you call me Lord and not do what I say? He expects us to study His words, His works and His ways so we can become like Him. 

Our children watch us and mimic us often, usually when we want them to the least. Recently I was visiting my 3 year old grandson Eli and I was tickling him. He wanted me to stop so he ran away from me, turned back toward me, pointed his finger directly at me and with an authoritative tone commanded “Nana! In the name of Jesus be nice!!”

It stopped me in my tracks. I tried not to laugh out loud but truthfully I was thrilled that not only was he learning from his family, he was applying it  :)  

Jesus can’t be a part of your life only when it’s convenient, He’s not looking for fans He’s looking for followers. Many people will start the relationship excited to grow, learn and serve then something happens in their life that shakes their faith and they decide having Jesus truly be Lord of their life is too much to ask. This fact has been true since the beginning, many of the disciples/pupils that walked with Jesus personally decided His teachings were too difficult and walked away.

Honestly, it’s not  always easy to follow Jesus but the reward is eternal life. The fact is Jesus didn’t just die on a cross and rise to life just so we could go to Heaven,  even though that would be enough!   Christ  gave His life so He could be Lord of mine and hopefully yours as well. 

If you don’t know what being a disciple means, pray and ask God to help you.  Get a bible and start reading it, join a church that teaches the word of God. Become part of a bible study. Don’t just see Jesus as a part of your life, be seen as a part of His.

Many people have difficulty understanding how the Holy Trinity works, The Father, Son and Holy Spirit being one. I’m one of those people.  I’m not sure How the miraculous God of the universe does things, however, I would like to share some of my personal relationship with the Holy Spirit. 

I have always felt like the Holy Spirit is my best friend. Let’s look at what the Bible says regarding our relationship with the Holy Spirit. 

John 15:14 You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.

John 14:25–26 “These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”

These are awesome promises from God for all of us. For me, when I say the Holy Spirit is my best friend it goes to a different kind of level. It’s like a best friend, you know the one who knows all your deepest darkest secrets and still loves you. The one you call when you need to whine or laugh or flat-out cry. The one who lets you vent without judgement. This is the relationship we have. Here is a sample of a conversation I would have with the Holy Spirit.

Me: So, I wanna talk to you about something and I’m not ready for you to tell Jesus or God…. I mean I’m really struggling with this situation, and I know I’m not handling it well, but I’m really unnerved by the whole thing.

Holy Spirit: UH-HUH?

Me: What the heck! I feel like I have a valid point here and would appreciate it being acknowledged.

Holy Spirit: UH-HUH?

Me. I really appreciate you listening and understanding my position. Now can you help me figure it out and do the right thing, even though I’m not 100% wanting to.

Holy Spirit: Do I need to remind you how you won’t sleep and will beat yourself up way more than I will if we don’t handle this? 

Me: whatever

Holy Spirt: Does that mean you’re ready for my idea?

Me: UH-HUH

I know very spiritual right? But it’s real. A best friend that ALWAYS not only knows the answers but uses God’s word for me without judgement is the best counseling session I could ask for.

Whether you find yourself battling addiction or life’s challenges in general, the Holy Spirit is your best friend. Sometimes we just don’t have words to express how we are feeling or are so overcome with emotion that our words can work against us.

Sometimes we don’t know what or how to pray and sometimes tears are our only defense. The Holy Spirit is a gift that Jesus died for us to have. God knew we needed more than mortal man to successfully walk out this life. He has provided a Spirit that speaks HIS language and His will for us. Send him a friend request-He accepts them all!

Romans 8:26–27 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.