CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
Character is who we are when no one is looking. It’s helping form a Christ-like heart in others. Here are some topics to consider as you make your way into this important area.
Topics to consider
Anxiety/Worry
As a disciple maker, anxiety and worry can creep in when we feel the weight of leading others or are uncertain about the future. However, we are called to cast these cares on God, trusting His sovereign plan. By modeling trust in God’s peace amid uncertainty, we help others learn to lean on Him as their source of security.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6-7
Pride (Humility in Leadership):
Pride is the enemy of disciple-making because it leads to self-reliance rather than God-dependence. As a disciple maker, embracing humility not only aligns you with God’s grace but also sets an example for others to follow. Humility opens the door for God’s wisdom and grace to shape us and those we lead.
“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” — James 4:6
Self-Control/Patience (Guiding with Grace):
A disciple maker must exercise self-control and patience, especially when others stumble or grow slowly. Self-control enables you to avoid reacting harshly, and patience allows you to extend grace in the growth process. This patience reflects God’s love and helps disciples mature at their own pace.
“Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.” — Proverbs 16:32
Tongue (words) (Speaking Life into Others):
The words we use as disciple makers can build up or tear down. Using words wisely to speak truth, encouragement, and life into others helps shape their faith journey. Our words should reflect the character of Christ, pointing people toward Him rather than ourselves.
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” — Proverbs 18:21
Joy (Reflecting God’s Goodness):
Joy is contagious, especially in disciple-making. By demonstrating joy, regardless of circumstances, you help others see that true joy comes from walking closely with God. It draws people in and reflects the fullness of life found in Christ.
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” — Nehemiah 8:10
Rest (Leading from a Place of Rest):
As a disciple maker, it’s essential to model the importance of rest. Rest allows you to remain spiritually refreshed, avoiding burnout, and teaches others to rely on God’s strength rather than their own. Prioritizing time with God, and resting in Him, is crucial to effective disciple-making.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
Peace (Promoting Peace in Relationships):
Peace is a hallmark of discipleship. As a disciple maker, demonstrating peace—especially in conflict or difficult circumstances—shows others the power of trusting God. It encourages disciples to pursue peace in their relationships and trust God’s plan over their own understanding.
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” — Isaiah 26:3
Confession/Repentance (Restoring Brokenness):
Confession and repentance are key to spiritual growth, both for the disciple maker and the disciple. By modeling vulnerability in confessing mistakes and repenting, you show others that God’s grace is always available. This transparency fosters a culture of openness and growth.
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9
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