Equip with a Clear Plan

June 20, 2023

Equip with a Clear Plan

Scripture

  • Proverbs 15:22

    Plans fail when there is no counsel,

    but with many advisers they succeed.

  • Proverbs 16:3,9

    3 Commit your activities to the Lord,

    and your plans will be established.


    9 A person’s heart plans his way,

    but the Lord determines his steps.

  • Galatians 6:9

    Let us not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up.

  • Philippians 4:8-9

    Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy—dwell on these things. Do what you have learned and received and heard from me, and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

Just like sports, discipleship has seasons. It is beneficial to define and assess the discipleship process in increments. Take a minute to consider the importance of defining healthy discipleship rhythms and routines. Use the following points to help you define expectations:


Duration: People want to know what they are committing to before starting something. Uncertainty can inhibit people from taking the next step forward. Invitations should define the duration of discipleship (for example, one semester) and the duration of each meeting (45 minutes). After faithfully fulfilling expectations, you can always invite someone into another season of discipleship. Defining duration in these ways can help with commitment and productivity.


Frequency: Consistency is key in developing relationships. Ensure that you define the frequency of meetings (once a week) and the frequency of assessment (once a month). Commit to meeting consistently and stay accountable to Gospel transformation and multiplication. Defining frequency in these ways shows your relationship has clear purpose.


Filter: It is so easy to get sidetracked from what is most important in the discipleship process. A filter keeps your energy going in the right direction. It removes obstacles in decision making, and it holds you accountable to what is most important. Defining what will filter your time, energy, relationships, and resources is crucial.


Huge benefits come from defining your expectations, but do not forget that flexibility is also important. Inevitably, conflicts will exist. How you respond can affect how quickly you get back on track. Finally, keep in mind that discipleship is hard work. Ensure that you build in time to have fun, laugh, and celebrate progress; it goes a long way in developing relationships.


TAKE ACTION

  1. Define the duration of discipleship relationships.
  2. Define the frequency of discipleship meetings.
  3. Filter your time and energy using the principles in this playbook.


TOOLS

The Discipleship Filter