Discipling with Joy
We love seeing many Japanese and foreigners discipled and growing in their faith in God. It’s a joy. Jesus thinks so too!
(Luke 10:21) At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.
(Message Bible) At that, Jesus rejoiced, exuberant in the Holy Spirit. ¡ÈI thank you, Father, Master of heaven and earth, that you hid these things from the know-it-alls and showed them to these innocent newcomers. Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way
Key thought:-Discipling is a joy-filled relationship with Jesus.
Some people don¡Çt see the joy and rewards in discipling. They might think of a negative example or see only hard work involved in it.
However I¡Çm sure we can all think of a great teacher, coach or christian leader who has sown great things into our lives. These good teachers were more than good teachers. They became models for us to emulate. They brought joy into the learning experience. They helped us grow at a faster rate. They helped us to love what we were learning.
These were in effect ¡Ædisciplers¡Ç in our lives.
Key thought:- Jesus is filled with joy when we grow in discipleship
Jesus is the greatest discipler. He causes growth in us as we allow him. He is always on the job training us as we read his Words and follow him. And he is full of joy as we grow and ¡Æreport in¡Ç through prayer and thanksgiving. Yes, He ¡Ærejoiced, exuberant in the Holy Spirit¡Ç as it says in the Message Bible.
Key Thought:- Jesus loved the fact that discipleship was easy and fruitful.
He rejoiced that many wise educated people missed it due to their pride. Yet any child-like, open, hungry person could get it. God would bring much new and wonderful revelation to anyone who is hungry for more. It is easy!
Also, the disciples were able to help others by praying for healing and sharing good news. Others were blessed and healed. And this fruitfulness brings joy to us too.
Prayer:-
Lord Jesus, I want to be a disciple (constant learner) of Jesus. I want to help others and be fruitful. I want to bring more joy to your heart.
