Devoted预览

Designed for Discipleship, written by Suhanya Green

I love the way in which we were created. We, as humans, have been designed to mature, absorb and learn. It is an ever-evolving process of physical, mental, and emotional growth from our first day until our last.

When I was a high school teacher, it always fascinated me how much (or how little) a student could get out of a lesson. A lot of the time, it came down to desire. Some had a desire to get as much learning out of the hour as they possibly could, while others’ ambition was to see what level they could get to in their game without getting caught!

As God-breathed humans, we are created to be disciples, to grow and learn and mature in the ways of Jesus, and hopefully become a little more like Him each day. Whether actively or passively, learning is always taking place; there is a constant osmosis of our values and actions with our choice of surroundings. And as with my students, the deepening of our spiritual maturity comes down to desire. Am I truly open to becoming more like Jesus?

We see in Ephesians that this is our life’s work: to grow as believers “to the measure and stature of the fullness of Christ.” I’m thankful that God is not in a rush! He is the master gardener, the potter, the craftsman of our lives. His work is to slowly and gently nudge us to think, act and love more like Jesus.

At times, our spiritual growth requires the laying down of some comforts. Perhaps it’s taking the time to really listen to what God is speaking to us or actually doing the work we need to do, whether it’s forgiving, resting, healing, or confronting.

The Message translation of Psalm 63 is a beautiful depiction of what devoted discipleship truly looks like: “Eyes open, drinking in your strength and glory.” Growing as a disciple of Jesus is not boring, burdensome, or mundane; it is awake and alert, life-giving, and awe-inducing! How encouraging is that final line – “In your generous love, I am really living at last!”. A life of devoted discipleship is a life to the full!

• How receptive am I to the leading of the Holy Spirit?
• In what ways can I think, act, and love more like Jesus?