“Only by walking with God can we hope to find the path that leads to life. That is what it means to be a disciple. After all—aren’t we ‘followers of Christ’? Then by all means, let’s actually follow him. Not ideas about him. Not just his principles. Him.” — John Eldredge
Being a disciple of Jesus isn’t like being a student in a classroom. A student studies to gain knowledge—facts and skills to navigate the world. Discipleship goes deeper than just learning information. Yes, it involves learning truths and principles, but it’s not just about filling our heads with knowledge. What discipleship is truly about is the transformation our hearts. To be a disciple is to become like the One we follow, to let his character shape ours. And if we’re to take on the character of Jesus, we must walk with him—day by day, step by step.
I think John Eldredge captures it beautifully in the quote above: discipleship is “walking with God.” Discipleship is not learning basic Bible doctrine or living according to the right moral standard (though those things are important); it is living a life that is actively pursuing Jesus.
How do we do that? I believe this journey unfolds through three vital practices: leaning into community, embracing spiritual disciplines, and following Jesus’ example of love.
Community: We Don’t Walk Alone
From the beginning of humankind, God said it’s not good for us to be alone (Genesis 2:18). We were made for relationship—with Him and with each other. Jesus didn’t teach in isolation from people; he gathered disciples around him, living and learning together. The early Church followed this example, devoting themselves to fellowship (Acts 2:42-47).
Walking with God happens best when we walk alongside others. Christian community offers:
- Encouragement and Accountability: Friends in faith spur us on and keep us grounded.
- Shared Wisdom: We grow as we study Scripture and share the ways God is working in our lives.
- Strength in Struggle: Bearing each other’s burdens lightens the load and deepens our trust in God.
Spiritual Disciplines: Staying Close to the Guide
Walking with God doesn’t happen by accident—it takes intention. Spiritual disciplines are the habits that keep us connected us to God, tuning our hearts to His voice. They are also the way we “practice” the character of Jesus. Consider:
- Prayer: Talking and listening to God builds a living, breathing relationship.
- Scripture: His Word is the map for this journey, renewing our minds and guiding our steps.
- Rest and Worship: Pausing to honor God—whether through a Sabbath or a song—restores our souls.
- Giving and Generosity: Blessing others with what God has given us and trusting Him to continue to provide for our lives.
- Fasting: Going without food for a period of time to express our grief and repentance or to teach us how to say no to our flesh.
These aren’t duties to perform; they’re invitations to draw near to the One who knows the way and develop His character.
Loving Others: The Fruit of the Journey
Jesus tied loving God and loving people together (Matthew 22:37-40). Our walk with Him shows up in how we treat those around us. Discipleship isn’t just the maturity of our heart—it’s the transformation of our character:
- Serving: Meeting needs reflects Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve.
- Forgiving: Extending grace mirrors the mercy we’ve received.
- Sharing: Inviting others into this walk multiplies the joy of following Him.
Love isn’t optional—it’s the evidence of a life shaped by King Jesus.
Step by Step, Together
Walking with God isn’t a sprint to perfection; it’s a steady, lifelong hike. Some days we’ll stumble, but the call is to keep going—together. Community keeps us moving, disciplines keep us close, and love keeps us true.
This is the path to the life Jesus promised: full, abundant, real (John 10:10).
So, where are you today? Are you walking with God, or just thinking about it? Let’s take the next step—side by side, eyes on Jesus, hearts open to what he’ll do along the way.
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