Lisa Blair

Part One

Many new and more mature believers grapple with the hesitancy to step into discipleship. A common theme I have encountered throughout my years in BSF is, “I want to be one of Christ’s disciples, but I fear approaching others to share the Good News.”  

God commanded all believers to share His Word, change our character to reflect the character of Christ, and show His love for us through our demonstration of loving others. The thought of loving others as Jesus loved us is a risk. It is the risk of being rejected. Hesitancy stems from not knowing how to approach others with agape love, especially those you do not know. Some fear being intimidated and running the risk of being ridiculed. What is happening is that you are caught in a viselike grip known as a stronghold. Your thoughts, or as we will learn later, your self-talk, reflect strongholds stymying your faith. Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, “Though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have the divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

God calls all believers to share His Word, transform our character to reflect the character of Christ, and demonstrate His love through acts of kindness toward others. The idea of loving others as Jesus loved us involves an inherent risk, such as the possibility of rejection or the fear of being intimidated or ridiculed. This hesitancy often arises from not knowing how to approach others with agape love, particularly those we do not know. Our thoughts, or as we will discuss later, our self-talk (internal conversations with ourselves), reflect strongholds that stymy your faith. Consequently, we may find ourselves trapped in a stronghold—a spiritual war. According to Biblehub.com, “a stronghold represents arguments and pretensions that set themselves up against the knowledge of God.”  The Apostle Paul addresses this in 2 Corinthians 10:3-5: “Though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 

Why do we perceive sharing the Word as risky when the Holy Spirit dwells in us? God’s Word is embedded within us. Paul reminds us that the Word serves as our weapon to demolish these strongholds, particularly the fear and hesitancy that come with sharing God’s message. Peter encourages us to stand firm in our faith and resist the devil, which includes combating negative self-talk that tells us we are ill-equipped to share His Word. This negative self-talk reinforces our doubts about our ability to be effective disciples. The good news is that we can reverse this pattern of negative thinking and doubt. Zechariah 4:6 reveals that the Lord instructed him to tell Zerubbabel, and by extension, us, that His power and Spirit are the ultimate sources of success. It is not our strength that empowers us to share the Word. The Holy Spirit provides the right words to communicate effectively with those we speak to. Paul prays in 2 Thessalonians 3:5 “that the Lord direct our hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.” If we embrace God’s love and Christ’s perseverance, nothing can hold us back from sharing the Word. 

Joshua 1:9 states: “Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” If God is with us wherever we go, He is with us when we share the Word. We should not be frightened or dismayed from spreading His Word.

To address our weaknesses and fears, we must examine three factors that hold us back: a lack of confidence, negative self-talk, and, most importantly, inconsistent faith.

Hebrews 10:35 advises us not to throw away our confidence. Verse 36 further stresses the importance of perseverance so that, when we have done God’s will, we will receive what He has promised. Our confidence is rooted in the Lord. Building this confidence is a gradual process that develops through both success and failure. Each failure teaches us what does not work, while each success reinforces what does. Over time, these experiences contribute to our overall confidence. Our confidence rests on our willingness to rely on God’s Word, surrender to His will, and feel comfortable depending on His strength. The more we practice sharing God’s Word, the more confident we become. 

In Mark 13:1, we are promised we will be given the words to speak when needed. This passage illustrates divine guidance and inspiration for sharing God’s truth and boldly expressing our faith, even in challenging situations. Luke 12:12 affirms that the Holy Spirit will provide the words we need the instant we need them. 

The key is to focus on small, manageable steps rather than becoming fixated on the end goal. Concentrate on God’s Word and seek out scriptures that resonate with your needs. As we develop skills and refine our methods, we build the confidence and strength necessary to share the Word beyond our immediate circle. For instance, initiating a casual conversation with fellow believers and sharing a personal experience can demonstrate how God has influenced, directed, or positioned you to share the Word with others. This approach also opens the door for additional conversations with people you interact with regularly.

As you build confidence in sharing the Word, you will feel emboldened to reach out to a broader audience—associates, friends who are not believers, and even strangers. It is a gradual process; each step brings you closer to feeling comfortable sharing the Word with anyone, including the person you meet on the street.

We are all equipped to become disciples; however, many of us are our own worst critics and fall victim to negative thoughts. Our internal critic is a disruptor, reinforcing long-held fears of inadequacy and failure. Yet, there is always light that dispels darkness (fear), and as you continue to share, you will find stories of victory. The hesitation to step into discipleship often stems from negative thought patterns, strongholds, and wavering faith. Remember, you are fully equipped to become a disciple. As a new creation in Christ, you have been gifted with His values and character. The only thing holding you back is you.

Conversation starters: One of the most challenging aspects of stepping outside your comfort zone is figuring out how to start a conversation. Opportunities arise in various situations throughout your life. The scenarios outlined below may assist you in your efforts to open new doors.

1. Sitting at a Doctor’s Office: You could say, “I am waiting to be called for my annual checkup. How about you?” If they are also waiting, you can add, “We are so fortunate that God has provided us with medical care; many who are less fortunate.” If they mention being there with a loved one or friend, you can ask, “Do you mind if I pray for them? What is their name? My name is ______. What is yours? It’s nice to meet you. Let’s pray.”
2. At a Coffee Shop: You could say, “I love coming here for my morning coffee and some quiet time. It’s a great place to reflect on God’s blessings. Do you have a favorite spot where you feel close to God?”
3. Waiting in Line: You could say, “Waiting can be a bit tedious, but it’s a good time to think about the patience that God teaches us. Have you ever felt God’s presence during a moment like this?”
4. During a Community Event: You could say, “It’s wonderful to see our community come together like this. It reminds me of the unity and love that Jesus taught us. Do you have any favorite Bible verses about community?”
5. At a Park: You could say, “Nature is such a beautiful testament to God’s creation. Do you ever feel a sense of closeness to God when surrounded by nature?”
6. At a Social Gathering: You could say, “Meeting new people and exchanging stories is such a joy! Have you noticed how God has been at work in their lives?”
7. To anyone, anywhere, at any time: “Have you ever had a moment where you felt God’s guidance in your life?”

Part Two

In his book, *The Confidence Gap*, author Russ Harris explains that people often focus on their goals before identifying what values are important to them. As Christians, our values should guide how we pursue our goals. The first step is to evaluate our identity in Christ. Consider the following questions: Do we reflect the characteristics of Christ? Which characteristics feel most comfortable to us? Why might some be more comfortable than others? Which characteristics do we need to strengthen to effectively disciple others? These reflections will help determine our approach to discipleship.

God has given each of us different gifts for discipling others. Some may feel comfortable speaking with people, while others might prefer volunteering services, leading a Bible study, sending letters, texts, or emails, or even writing a blog or devotional. Regardless of where your strengths and comfort lie, you are discipling others through your interactions and by sharing the Word.

Jesus trained His disciples by demonstrating His gifts and sending them out as apprentices. They did not acquire all their skills at once, and we won’t get everything right from the beginning either. The Bible teaches us that we must learn and strengthen our identity as new creations in Christ. Understanding our identity and the values that best represent Christ is an ongoing journey.

God does not leave anything to chance. Scripture reinforces our identity in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17 tells us, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” Ephesians 4:24 states, “…put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” Finally, Ephesians 3:12 tells us we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in Him.

We have all the gifts necessary to become effective disciples, which is part of our new identity. Our values and ethics serve as the standards we follow based on what is important in our lives. As Christians, our values align with the principles taught by Jesus. While our beliefs and values remain constant, the way we express them can evolve.

In Philippians 4:9, Paul reminds the disciples: “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice, and the God of peace will be with you.” Once we identify our values, we can change the messages we internalize and communicate. For example, we can shift from thinking, “I am uncomfortable reaching out to share the Word,” to feeling, “I am comfortable sharing the Word of God with others.” Our communication style will depend on the specific situation or circumstance.

Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence

Building Confidence: Confidence is built over time through both failures and successes. Failure teaches you what does not work, while success affirms what does. Evaluating your values and characteristics in Christ can help build this confidence. Changing negative self-talk to positive affirmations is also crucial.

1. Small Steps to Big Goals: Focus on small, manageable steps rather than the daunting end goal of discipleship and reflecting on daily interactions and journaling the outcomes can help build confidence gradually. This approach enables you to feel comfortable sharing the Word with anyone, including strangers.

2. Practical Approach: Start with casual conversations and understand the person’s needs before diving into scripture sharing. This helps in making the conversation more effective and less intimidating.
3. Overcoming Negative Messaging: Identify and change the negative self-messaging that holds you back. Rewriting your internal message to positive affirmations can help you become comfortable with sharing the Word.
4. Focus on What Can Be Controlled: Concentrate on what you can control rather than the end goal. This helps in reducing self-doubt and discouragement.
5. Listening to Others’ Victories: Hearing others share their victories in discipleship can be encouraging and help you overcome your fears.

Part Three

Summary

Once reborn through faith in Christ, we become new creations, transformed by His love and grace. The Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, resides within us, guiding and instructing our thoughts and actions. This divine presence leads us along the right path and empowers us with strength during our moments of weakness, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles.

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in helping us combat negative self-talk—those critical inner voices that can stifle our confidence and hinder our ability to share the Gospel effectively. By acknowledging our fears and doubts, we can work through them and gradually build the self-assurance necessary to bravely share the truth of our faith. Recognizing the barriers that hold us back is the first step; once we address these obstacles, we can begin to develop a stronger sense of purpose as disciples of Christ. 1Corinthians 6:17 beautifully encapsulates the depth of our relationship with God, stating, “Whoever is united with the Lord is one with Him in spirit.” This profound unity signifies that we are intimately connected to God, sharing in His love and wisdom. Furthermore, 1 Corinthians 15:57 triumphantly proclaims, “Thanks be to God! He gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” This verse is a powerful reminder that our victories in life are made possible through Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection.

To effectively combat negative self-talk when sharing the Word, consider implementing the following practical steps:

 1. Practice Mindfulness: Take time to be aware of your thoughts. Recognize when negative self-talk arises and challenge those thoughts with truth from Scripture.

2. Affirmations: Create a list of positive affirmations based on biblical truths about your identity in Christ. Repeat them daily to reinforce a positive mindset.

3. Seek Community: Surround yourself with fellow believers who encourage and uplift you. Sharing experiences and insights can strengthen your resolve and confidence.

4. Pray for Guidance: Regularly seek the Holy Spirit’s help through prayer. Ask for clarity and courage to share your faith authentically.

5. Start Small: Begin by sharing your faith in low-pressure situations. Gradually expand your circle as you grow in confidence.

By implementing these steps, you can overcome negative self-talk and embrace your calling to share the Gospel with boldness and joy. Once reborn, we become new creations in Christ, and the Holy Spirit resides within us. The Holy Spirit instructs, guides, and directs us, providing strength in our moments of weakness. He helps us overcome negative self-talk that can hinder our ability to become true disciples. By recognizing what holds you back and actively working to overcome it, you will gain the confidence to share the Word and fully embrace your role as a disciple of Christ.