Embracing Your Sword and Calling

In today's world, it's crucial to rise up as champions, as disciples who take action. We can't sit back and expect change without stepping into our calling. We must be the ones who move, who engage, who fight the good fight.

Recently, I've been reading a powerful book. It's my second time through, and it's impacting me all over again. I'm so moved by its message that I plan to get copies for our leaders and church members. This book emphasizes a crucial truth: we all have a sword to bring. We each carry a unique gift, a weapon meant to be part of God's army.

However, it's not enough to simply wield our swords. There must be structure and order. Just as a soldier follows the commands of their general, we must lay our swords before our leadership. Our fight must align with the vision set before us. This is the essence of discipleship—it requires discipline, order, and structure to learn how to fight and how to win.

The Call to Discipleship

We hear it all the time, but it bears repeating: “Go therefore and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19). Notice it doesn't say to simply be a disciple but to make disciples. If you are truly a disciple of Christ, you should be actively training, developing, and gathering people who can learn from you.

You never stop being a disciple because we are always learning. Even as an apostle, I am continually learning. But with my role as a sent one, I carry the authority to teach, to send out others, and to guide them in this journey of discipleship.

Discipleship: Bringing Jesus to Every Part of Life

Discipleship is about more than teaching doctrines or attending church services. It’s about bringing Jesus into every aspect of our character and lives. It's about understanding how people operate and guiding them to reflect Christ's character. It involves every part of our being—our physical walk, spiritual journey, mind, will, and emotions. Discipleship means shaping our entire selves into the presence of God.

But it starts with looking in the mirror and seeing God within ourselves. Until we see God in us, we won't change anything. When I recognize God's image in me, I begin to take better care of myself—not out of vanity, but out of a commitment to the calling He has given me.

Self-Care and Discipleship

Taking care of ourselves is part of our discipleship journey. When we focus on Jesus, everything else falls into place—our health, our emotions, our purpose. Health is important, but the most crucial aspect is hearing God's voice. And here's the freedom: It's okay to be different. What's important is the state of your heart and your commitment to discipleship.

When we prioritize our spiritual growth, God guides us on how to care for ourselves—spiritually, physically, and emotionally. Discipleship isn't just about spiritual practices; it's about living fully in God's presence.

The Call to Action

Look at the world around us—our systems, our society. If we don't rise up as disciples, we'll be hoodwinked and misled. We'll tolerate and accept things we should stand against. That's why we must become champions, warriors in God's army. We must learn to fight with structure, order, and vision.

It's time to bring your sword. It's time to embrace your calling. Rise up, make disciples, and let your life reflect the power and presence of God. Amen.