We are down to 2. We have almost completed our profile of a maturing/ mature disciple. On to our next trait.
- Engages in regular conversation with God
- Lives out a life that is others focused
- Dispenses forgiveness quickly
- Presents a teachable disposition for life and ministry
- Has a missional mindset and focus
- Owns the ministry of the local church
- Processes life and decisions through the Bible
- Rests in the sovereignty of God, especially amidst trial
- Leads his or her children in the ways of the Lord
- Encourages others
- Practices spiritual disciplines
- Takes sin and its effects seriously
- Lives in community
#14 – Uses relational influence to move others toward Christ
Those who love Jesus and follow Him have an amazing opportunity and privilege. The Bible refers to Christians as ambassadors. An ambassador is someone who represents a higher power (like a government) and has the privilege to speak on their behalf and connect the third party to the rights of that higher power. Christians get to do this for God most high. And here is the thing we must remember about being an ambassador for the Lord…we are never off. We are always on. We represent Jesus at home, at work, on the golf course, at the hairdresser, at your stepmom’s house, or on social media. In each of these spheres, and in any sphere, we should leverage our representation in a way that makes people interested in Jesus and His ways. We need to be magnets that draw people. Not people who push, or yell, or argue our faith and our love for Christ, but people who are on mission anywhere and everywhere to influence people to Jesus. This means we need to be focused and on mission not just in the mundane and day-to-day, but also at special events like wedding receptions, office parties, tailgates, St. Patrick’s days, bachelor nights, and so on. Those who are maturing/mature aspire to be as effective as possible in any relationship on connecting others to Christ – from the store clerk to your son or daughter.
A Pastor's Thoughts 