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Count the cost

Invites reflection on surrender and commitment, emphasizing intentional discipleship, spiritual practices and clarity of purpose on the path toward maturity.

Discipleship with intention

  • Discipleship is not a goal to be perfect, but a continual process of being perfected.
  • True following requires counting the cost and choosing transformation on purpose.
  • Clarity is needed to avoid confusing the what with the why.

Questions that shape commitment

  1. What do I need to surrender to the Lord today?
    • Surrender reveals what still holds our allegiance.
    • Letting go creates space for God’s work.
  2. What steps do you want to make to follow you better?
    • Faith is expressed through concrete actions.
    • Growth requires movement, not intention alone.

A plan for formation

The 9 practices:

  1. Sabbath.
    • Rest that reorients life around God’s provision.
  2. Solitude.
    • Space to listen and be present with God.
  3. Prayer.
    • Ongoing conversation that forms dependence and trust.
  4. Fasting.
    • Voluntary restraint that sharpens hunger for God.
  5. Scripture.
    • Immersion in God’s Word to renew the mind.
  6. Community.
    • Shared life that encourages accountability and love.
  7. Generosity.
    • Open-handed living that reflects God’s grace.
  8. Service.
    • Humble action that mirrors the way of Jesus.
  9. Witness.
    • Faith lived and spoken in everyday life.

Insight

  • Discipleship begins with surrender and continues through obedience.
  • Counting the cost clarifies commitment and direction.
  • Spiritual practices provide a framework for lasting transformation.
  • Maturity grows through intentional steps taken over time.