Serious competitors know that transformation is at the heart of preparation. Transformation requires change – taking you from something to something. Deficiencies are defined, injuries illuminated, and oversights corrected, all so that meaningful development takes place prior to competition. You’re smarter, faster, and stronger.
The same is true for discipleship.
Serious disciple-makers know that transformation is also at the heart of preparation – and they’re serious about reading God’s Word. Why? Because ministry moments that matter are determined by hours of unseen preparation. The overflow of God’s work in you leads to what He does through you. God’s Word is a training ground for your heart’s transformation. Here’s why.
Know
First, a question. How do you view the Bible? Your answer here may diagnosis a needed discovery.
For some, the Bible is interpreted as a list of mere rules that identify “do’s” and “don’ts” in order to be a “good person”. Ever walk into a workout and realize that you’re there because you “have to” rather than because you “want to”? Hence, a similar feeling with this approach. It’s possible to have a head full of facts and a heart void of connection with Jesus. The ultra-religious leaders during Jesus' days focused on studying the rules in ill-advised hopes of earning God’s love. Jesus quickly corrected this thinking:
"You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me!” (John 5:39-40)
In its proper context, the entirety of the Bible is a cosmic Love Story of God going to the ultimate length to win back the hearts of His most dearly loved creation (us). Jesus is clear – it’s not enough to know about Him (i.e., the facts); He desires that you truly and personally know Him.
“And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth.” (John 17:3)
A proper posture towards the Bible sparks transformation as the Holy Spirit helps you more intimately know God while you read.
Grow
Knowing God means you’ll become acquainted with His character and understand His desires for you. And it’s here – the intersection of knowing God and learning more about yourself – that the realization of much-needed growth emerges. Here’s where God’s Word proves essential:
“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” (2 Timothy 3:16)
God’s Word is a light, and it’s used to illuminate our hearts by exposing misaligned motives (Psalm 119:105, 2 Corinthians 4:5). It’s more than mere behavior modification (remember the previous mention about lists of rules); God is after the restoration of your heart. It’s usually neither comfortable nor convenient. Yet, it’s vital for a disciple-maker seeking to fulfill the mission at-hand.
Go
Daily renewal in Scripture reveals God, refines your growth and reminds you of the mission. It gets you to go!
“God uses [Scripture] to prepare and equip his people to do every good work,” (2 Timothy 3:17).
Personal transformation leads to public multiplication. Immersion in the Word recalls the great Love Story and reinforces your place in it as a disciple-maker, while preparing you with everything you need to fulfill God’s calling on your life.
Jesus’ command is clear: “Therefore, go and make disciples…” (Matt. 28:19).
The mission matters. So does your preparation.
May God’s Word be the training ground for your transformation and for those whom you influence.
New Devo!
This quarter, we’re exploring what it means to Pursue Mission. This month, our focus is on how to Prepare for the Mission. Join us as we journey through this exploration and Commit to the Mission next month.
One way to actively Pursue Mission is to get involved with FCA. Whether it’s volunteering as a Huddle leader or character coach, or committing to our team and coming on staff, we have a place for you to serve and disciple coaches and athletes. Get involved!
Want to learn more about pursuing team and surrounding yourself with the right spiritual teammates? Head to FCA in Action and read our November Pursue articles:
Anchor Article: Fundamental Training: Prepare for the Mission
Article One: Armor Up: Communion with God
*If you read this article and aren’t in relationship with Christ yet but would like to know more, we invite you to go through FCA’s The FOUR that explains how an everlasting and fulfilling life with God is possible.
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