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BOOK TWO

80 Days of

DISCIPLESHIP

A daily devotional about
your relationship with God and others

The Navigators: Celebrating 80 Years of Advancing the Gospel

In honor of The Navigators 80th anniversary, and to thank
you for your partnership with us, we’ve created this devotional
to encourage you to grow with God and others. This is Book
Two of 80 Days of Discipleship and it contains Days 41 to Day
80. If you’d like to download a digital version of Book One,
please visit my.navigators.org/80years.

The Navigators is an international network of people who
love God and follow Jesus Christ. Our passion is to help others
know Christ, make Him known, and help others do the same
all around the world.

Currently, 4,600 Navigators staff serve in 50 states, 107
countries, and 170 languages. Our staff minister in the
United States and internationally on college campuses and
military bases, in big cities and small towns, in churches and
neighborhoods, to young people and adults in all different
seasons of life. While people and cultures vary around the
globe, the message of the Gospel is the same. Behind each
Navigator ministry you will find people who are passionate
about advancing the Gospel.

—DAY 41—

The Need of the Hour
Dawson Trotman, Founder of The Navigators

What is the need of the hour? That depends on the person who is
thinking about it.

For a beggar with a tin cup, it’s a dime. For a woman being taken to the
hospital, it’s a doctor. But what is it in Christian work?

Some say, “If I just had a larger staff.” Many a minister would like an
assistant, and many a mission would like more missionaries. Others say,
“We don’t need more workers, but better facilities. If we just had more
office space and more buildings, then we could do the job.”

In some parts of the world they say it’s better communications we lack,
or better transportation, or better health care.

Many feel the need is an open door into some closed country.
Some say, “If we just had more time,” or “If I just weren’t so old.”
What is the need of the hour? I don’t believe it is any of these. I am
convinced that the God of the universe is in control, and He will supply
all these needs in His own way and in His own time. The need of the hour
is an army of soldiers dedicated to Jesus Christ, who believe that He is
God, that He can fulfill every promise He ever made, and that nothing
is too hard for Him. This is the only way we can accomplish what is on
God’s heart.

Adapted from The Need of the Hour, © The Navigators.

TIP: “He saved us not because of righteous things we had done, but
because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and
renewal by the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:5).

1 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 42—

The Lost Art of
Spiritual Apprenticeship

Doug Nuenke, U.S. President of The Navigators

The method of training people in a trade or art through mentoring—
called “apprenticeship”—is not as prevalent as it once was. According
to Wikipedia, the formal system of apprenticeship first developed in
the Middle Ages when a master craftsman employed young people in
exchange for providing food, lodging, and formal training in the craft.

Long before the Middle Ages, Jesus invested in the lives of the next
generation through the apprenticeship model. He spent regular time
with a handful of people, both individually and in groups, imparting and
modeling lessons on living life to its fullest.

We call these His disciples; the original Greek word, mathetes, means
student, follower, or learner. Jesus encouraged His disciples to make still
more disciples (Matthew 28:19). The Message translation puts it this way:
“Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life.”

Many churches and organizations boast discipleship programs. But
discipleship and disciplemaking are only a shadow of their true self when
they exist in programs and curriculum. True discipling is experienced
through life-on-life encounters as we pass along and model the Jesus-life
to others. We live as true followers of Jesus when we consider ourselves
learners under His teaching. And we are called to help others because, as
a good friend says, “A leader is someone a step ahead and headed in the
right direction.”

Is there someone in your life who could use a spiritual apprenticeship?

Prayer for Church Discipleship Ministry
Pray that we will grow in intentional partnering with all Navigator ministries
to advance The Navigators Calling.

2 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 43—

The Discipleship
Formula

Stephen Brucker, Church Discipleship Ministry, Oregon

Discipleship is complicated. There, I said it. The cat is out of the bag.
If it were easy, every Christian would attempt it; every Christian would
want to participate in its unpredictable adventures. Ask 10 people for
the definition of discipleship and I promise that you will receive 10
different answers. For we all assume we know the meaning of discipleship,
pretending it’s not a foreign concept, all the while hoping that someone
might illuminate our wandering gaze and guide our scattered feet. 

I like formulas. They make life simpler. I have looked high and low
for a formula in the Bible on discipleship—a sort of three-step, money-
back-guarantee process. To my avail, I have found no such formula.
Why? Because discipleship is messy. It’s messy because people are messy.
Therein rests discipleship’s power to intimidate us, and its unrivaled
ability to arrest our souls in paralysis. And yet when Jesus sent out His
disciples, did they have all the answers? Could they refute every objection
or teach perfectly? No, they were ragamuffins. So what did the disciples
have? They only had Jesus and the faith to believe in Him. Perhaps that
should be good enough for us, too.

In the end, I stand corrected. There is a “formula”: His name is Jesus. 

TIP: Put Christ first. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and
all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).

3 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 44—

Five Essentials
LeRoy Eims, Served with Collegiate Ministry

There are five essentials a new believer needs to develop a life of
discipleship. At the top of my list is love. In 1 Thessalonians 2:7,8, we
learn that Paul was willing to give his very life for people, not because of
what they could do for him, but simply because he loved them.

The second need of a new Christian is protection. The apostle Paul
protected his flock in five ways: prayer (Colossians 1:9,10), visits (Acts
15:36), sending others (1 Corinthians 4:15–17), writing (2 Corinthians
2:9), and assuring them of their victory in Christ (1 Corinthians 10:13,
1 Thessalonians 3:1–5).

The third essential is food. We can open the Bible and feed new
Christians ourselves (1 Peter 5:2). And we can teach them to feed
themselves (Jude 20,21). We all need to spur our spiritual growth through
obedience and personal application of Scripture.

The fourth need is fellowship with other believers. Several years ago a
hurricane flattened every tree in a forest outside London. Why? The trees
were planted too far apart, so the roots of one tree could not intertwine
with the roots of another, making them weak.

The fifth essential is training. Don’t just tell them what to do and leave
them on their own. Show them, walk with them, and enjoy their progress.
New Christians need someone—not something—to help them. That’s you!

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

Prayer for 20s Ministry
By faith we are trusting God for a multiplying movement of Christ-followers
who form into small teams in each of Seattle’s 127 neighborhoods. Will you
pray with us?

4 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 45—

It Takes Courage
Leslie Vernick, Discipleship Journal Contributor

At times it takes great courage to enter into—or sustain—a
relationship. Fear has a way of capturing our imaginations and fueling
our emotions. Relationships are risky business. It takes courage to initiate
them, mend them, and deepen them.

First, we need courage to be honest. We can spend years in silence and
pretense, too afraid of disapproval and criticism to share our true selves.
Ask God for the courage to be honest with people and the ability to speak
the truth in love.

Next is the courage to confront. When healthy discipleship is at stake,
ask God for the courage to follow the apostle Paul’s example. In Galatians
2, Paul relates his confrontation with Peter, who was separating himself
from the Gentiles because he feared what the Jews would say (verses
11,12). Paul saw that Peter’s actions were undermining the truth of the
Gospel and leading others astray.

Finally, pray for courage to seek reconciliation. The Bible is clear that
we are to initiate a conversation with someone who has hurt us (Matthew
18:15). We are also to approach others when we know we have offended
them (Matthew 5:23,24). Both require courage to overcome our fear of
rejection.

“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord
is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid” (Psalm 27:1)?

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

Prayer for Collegiate Ministry
Pray for the student leaders in our Navigator ministries.

5 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 46—

A Disciple Seeks
Forgiveness

Sandy Weyeneth, Collegiate Ministry, Colorado

A veteran missionary commented that he was “amazed” that Brad
sought out Michelle after a meeting to apologize to her because “so
few Christian leaders do that today.” But why would Brad’s apology be
“amazing” since Brad had indeed sinned against Michelle?

Instead of simply apologizing, Brad should have also asked for
Michelle’s forgiveness. That is one mark of a disciple of Jesus Christ
(James 5:16), and it helps reconcile us to one another.

A disciple who seeks forgiveness is:
▶ Convicted of sin. As tempting as it is to rationalize, blame, or

not own up to our sin—whether it’s being rude, unkind, jealous,
arrogant, or impatient—the first step is to admit our sin.
▶ Controlled by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). This produces
the fruit of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
▶ Responsive to confrontation. When someone you trust confronts
you, do you listen?
▶ Feeding on the Word. The Word of God cleanses, renews, reveals,
convicts, directs, teaches, transforms, leads, and restores! Ephesians
6:17 describes God’s Word as our sword of the Spirit.

Our loving and righteous God gives grace to the humble (1 Peter
5:5,6). Is there someone you may need to humbly ask, “Will you forgive
me?” Is there anyone you may need to help or encourage in this area?

Tip: The key to spiritual maturity is applying God’s truth to your life and
submitting your whole heart, mind, and soul to His transforming grace.

6 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 47—

Priests

Al Engler, Military Ministry, Washington

God declared that we “are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy
nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of
him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter
2:9). We are priests, and as such we have been planted in a place and time
to represent God to people and people to God.

Do you pray for the people in your world? When I was activated for
military duty after 9/11, I worked in a very high-stress environment with
12 others. I knew that we had a mission and that there would be little
time to talk about God with my workmates. I also knew that God had
put me in that environment as a priest and that I was responsible to pray.
I wrote the names of my 12 colleagues on a 3x5 card and taped it to the
dashboard of my car. Each morning as I drove to work I named their
names before God.

The work environment did not allow me to do much besides pray, but
today there are at least three people walking with Jesus from that group
who did not know Him prior to being activated. We must believe God for
people and pray urgently for them.

TIP: Create prayer cards for people in your life, listing the name of the
person, a prayer request, and a verse. Rotate through these throughout
your week.

7 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 48—

Boundaries in Discipling
Charity Singleton, Discipleship Journal Contributor

The knock on my door created a dull ache in my stomach. I knew
who it was. One of the students I was discipling had developed a habit of
dropping by whenever she was bored—which was many times each week.
I had prayed for a deeper relationship with her, but now I felt invaded.

Discipling others requires letting people into our already busy lives;
it is no small task limited to a certain evening each week. However,
neglecting our personal responsibilities or our own spiritual growth for
the sake of others is not only harmful to us but sets a negative example for
those we are trying to help.

Finding the proper balance between sharing your life and having a
life can be challenging. Jesus’ interaction with the people of Capernaum
(Luke 4) provides guidelines for establishing appropriate boundaries in
our discipleship relationships. After an exhausting ministry stint, Jesus
pulled away from people to pray.

Finding time alone is never easy, but it is possible—and necessary. If
Jesus needed time alone to hear from God, then we certainly do.

Some may argue that setting ministry boundaries is selfish. But
when we look at Jesus’ life, we see that the purpose of setting limits is
not to protect us from giving to others at all, but to help us love others
intentionally and purposefully.

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

Prayer for Military Ministry
Ask God to bring unity and new growth to our ROTC initiatives, growing
our engagement with college students in this specific area of service and
training.

8 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 49—

A Disciple’s Foundation
Eddie Broussard, National Leadership Team, Colorado

A disciple’s devotional life is like the foundation of a house: You can’t
see it, but it’s there. The entire house depends on it for stability. When
the foundation is weak or cracks begin to appear on the walls, the whole
house is in danger of collapsing.

The believer’s devotional life is similar. Just as the foundation of a
house is underground and mostly unseen, so is our devotional life. It’s not
something people see when they look at us, but it’s still there. It’s what we
are doing with God when no one else is looking. Devotional life is our 24/7
relationship with God in worship and in life. It begins with a focused time
with God in the mornings, but it doesn’t stop there. When I walk to my car,
God is there. When I drive with a friend to the store, God is with us.

Every day we need to ask ourselves, “Will I be in touch with God today,
or is my spiritual phone disconnected?” It’s so easy for us to go through
life with our spiritual phone turned off, and then we wonder why God isn’t
speaking to us. He is! Tune in to Him and keep your foundation strong!

TIP: Spend seven minutes with God each day. The more you spend time
with God and allow Him to fill your cup, the more you will have to encourage
others. Find out more at www.navigators.org/resources. Look under “Articles
and Tips,” and look for NavTools—Got Seven Minutes for God?

9 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 50—

Quiet

Sue Tell, National Leadership Services, Colorado

The alarm clock rudely barges into my sleep. The five beeps of the
coffeemaker are a mixed blessing. The garbage man seals the deal—I’m
awake. My day, with all its noise, begins.

Romans 10:17 says faith comes by hearing. How quiet do I need to
be to hear? I soon find out. The tall ponderosas surrounding our deck
beckon. I gather my Bible, journals, and coffee and head for my quiet
haven.

God speaks with a quiet whisper. Am I hearing His voice? Or do the
noises of life rob my attention? I want to hear.

I’m learning:
▶ Quietness is a need; God hardwired me for quiet.
▶ Quietness is an art; it blossoms with practice.
▶ Quietness is a skill; it is a habit to be developed.
▶ Quietness is a gift; I must unwrap it to enjoy.

Zephaniah 3:17 tells me that the Lord quiets me with His love. Oh,
how I desire God to showcase His love to me. Quietness enables His love
to be manifest.

So I sit, I ponder His words, I pray. Sometimes I read a favorite author,
all the while listening for God. Restlessness transforms into rest—a rest
so energizing I want to shout it from the rooftop—but then I would
interrupt the quiet of my neighbors.

“The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be
quietness and confidence forever” (Isaiah 32:17).

Prayer for Military Ministry
Pray that our deployed military personnel will be conduits of hope to those
they serve alongside as well as the people they are serving and protecting.

10 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 51—

The Gospel
Makes Disciples

Billy Otten, Collegiate Ministry, Ohio

We are called to make disciples. But what is a disciple, and how is
one made? A disciple is one who has renounced ownership of his life
and recognized Jesus as Lord (Luke 14:33). Realizing this gave me clarity
in my ministry. What was I really trying to accomplish in the lives
of students? Teach them how to read the Bible? Make sure they were
members of a church? Ensure they know how to share their faith? These
are all good things, but none of them is the target. At the end of the day,
my goal is that they “might no longer live for themselves but for him who
for their sake died and was raised” (2 Corinthians 5:15, esv).

But how are disciples made? The Great Commission helps us here. “Go
and make disciples . . . baptizing them . . . ” Baptism is the faith-response
to the preaching of the Gospel. We make disciples by preaching the
Gospel. It is the message that Jesus is Lord, by virtue of His resurrection,
and that He is worthy of our allegiance by virtue of His sacrificial death.
The cross is the only thing that can make us want to surrender. It is the
ultimate demonstration of God’s love. When we see His love for us, we
want to respond with the obedience of faith.

TIP: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not
from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can
boast” (Ephesians 2:8,9).

11 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 52—

Choosing Truth
Over Pride

Jamie Clark, Served as Collegiate Staff, Florida

For several weeks I couldn’t shake the intense inner struggle that
enveloped me like a thick cloud. “Why can’t I pull myself out of this?” I
wondered. I ended up pouring out my heart to a friend, who responded,
“It sounds to me like you need to build some convictions in these areas of
your life and not be so double-minded!” Ouch!

There were two ways I could respond. I could well up with pride and
defensiveness. After all, I have a lot of convictions for my life! Or I could
humble myself, take her words to Jesus, and let Him confirm whether or
not this was truth.

I went to a coffee shop to get some time to sip from the Lord’s
coffee mug. I figured He’d shoot straight with me, so I began eating the
Scriptures. The Lord led me on an incredible journey that released the
cloud in my heart. I realized my double-mindedness was linked to who I
believed God was. I would believe Him to be one way when things were
good (kind, good, loving) but another way (distant, uncaring) when the
storms rolled into my life.

Had I let pride get in the way of listening to my friend, I would have
missed out on what God wanted to show me. Next time someone speaks
into your life, you might want to ask the Lord if there’s any truth in what
that person is saying.

Prayer for 20s Ministry
Christ-following musicians and artists are meeting in local coffee shops
to build community and common ground with the young people of Seattle.
Pray for new friendships to be planted and for the Gospel to spread.

12 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 53—

The Great Niche Hunt
Dave Kraft, Discipleship Journal Contributor

C. S. Lewis wrote, “Everyone is composed of a few themes.” As
disciplers, one of our privileges is to help others discover their “themes.”
We can make an immense contribution to people’s lives by coaching them
through the process of discovering their niche in the family of God. Here
are some principles to keep in mind.

1. Help them identify their calling. One pitfall to avoid is remaking
others in our own image. We need to let them be who God
intended and celebrate the unique calling God has on their lives.

2. Help them say no. Pastor Bill Hybels has said, “Most of the people
I know are overwhelmed and overcommitted.” As we’re helping
people find their niche, it’s a perfect time to begin talking about
how to use their gifts and work within their margins. Teach them
the skill of prayerful planning and that it’s OK to say no.

3. Help them live in God’s grace. We must help those we disciple
anchor their lives in God’s grace. Experiencing God’s grace takes
the focus off of what we do and places it on who we are: children of
God. Only a deep experience of God’s grace will give us courage to
embrace our calling and say no to the many voices that lead us this
way and that.

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

Prayer for Church Discipleship Ministry
Please ask God to provide the funding for our staff to be empowered in all
of our God-directed plans.

13 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 54—

Teaching Like Jesus
Roger Hamilton, Ministry Partner Development, Colorado

Jesus was a master of imparting spiritual truth to His followers. He knew
His disciples needed more than explanation. They needed to see His words in
action, and they needed to talk about what they’d witnessed. Jesus’ approach
models three important components of discipleship: demonstration,
explanation, and clarification. We find an example of this in John 13.

In this well-known passage, Jesus had a final lesson to teach about the
importance of sacrificial service. While washing the disciples’ feet, He
demonstrated how leaders should serve those to whom they minister.
We, too, must demonstrate what we want others to learn. Telling a young
believer to share the Gospel without giving that person the opportunity to
see us do it will result in frustration.

After washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus explained the significance of
what He had just done: “I have set you an example that you should do as I
have done for you” (verse 15). Both demonstration and explanation must
be incorporated in discipleship.

Next, Jesus made the connection between demonstration and
explanation. He asked a question of clarification: “Do you understand
what I have done for you?” (verse 12). Implied in Jesus’ question about
what He had done was the reason why He had done it. He provided
clarification for His disciples.

By emulating Jesus’ teaching style, we can reinforce the soul-shaping
work He’s already doing in the lives of others.

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

Prayer for Military Ministry
Ask the Lord to open avenues of spiritual growth among our service
academy graduates, that they will become Christian leaders and
influencers within the military.

14 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 55—

Building Trust
Through Gentleness

Alan Andrews, Neighborhood Ministries, Arizona

In a world full of brokenness, it takes time for the people we disciple
to trust us. One of the mistakes I made early in my ministry was an
unwillingness to get involved in the lives of hurting people. After going
through a season of brokenness in my own life, I realized that a lot of
wounded people try to overcome their brokenness through performance.
They can do all the right things for a while, but sooner or later they have
to deal with their brokenness.

Jesus came to give life and hope to the brokenhearted (Luke 4:18–21).
We must relate to others as Jesus does. That means remembering how
sensitive people’s wounds are. The way we deal with someone’s wounds
will affect how he responds to us and how he grows.

Building trust requires treating people’s hurts with gentleness. As people
grow and become stronger, they can deal with stronger things. But in the
early stages, we must relate to them on their terms and with great care.

So take your time and build trust. It may take longer, but it makes
relationships much more enjoyable because we’re not evaluating people’s
performance. Instead, we’re simply cooperating with the ongoing work of
God in their lives.

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

TIP: God is merciful. God’s compassion is infinite and inexhaustible. In the
mercy of His provision in Christ, He took upon Himself the judgment that
was due us. He waits and works now for all people everywhere to turn to
Him, not wanting any to be lost. Read Deuteronomy 4:29–31.

15 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 56—

Fess Up
When You Mess Up!

Doug Nuenke, U.S. President of The Navigators

I once had a Bible study with high school seniors. One night we talked
about how we should handle it when we “mess up.” I mentioned that the
six words I had said most to my kids were, “I’m sorry, will you forgive
me?” One of the guys stared at me in disbelief. Later he told me why he
was dumbfounded: “My dad has never said those words to me!”

Unfortunately, his experience is not uncommon. We live in a world
that applauds the façade of perfection. In reality, this side of heaven,
we all have flaws—like plywood under fancy oak veneer. Yes, God is
remaking us, but He won’t be done till we see Jesus (1 John 3:2,3).

 I’ve found that authentically admitting our weaknesses is one of the
most attractive, holy attributes that Christ-followers can exhibit. Many
nonbelievers know and embrace that they are less than perfect and long
to learn a God-designed way of dealing with that imperfection. If only
we as Christ-followers were willing to live authentically and accept one
another in our less-than-perfect state.

God says, “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are
humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word” (Isaiah 66:2).
This means that we should strive for holy imperfection while still longing
to be like Him. It means we’ll need to say we’re sorry sometimes, to admit
that we messed up. The world will take notice.

TIP: “Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions
and truth” (1 John 3:18).

16 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 57—

The World
in Their Eyes

Becky Brodin, Ministry Partner Development, Minnesota

During a planning session to design discipleship training at my
church, this question surfaced: “How does a ministry of discipleship differ
from other types of ministries?” Several things popped into my mind, but
one distinctive trumped the rest: At some point discipleship is passed on
to others.

How to build this into our discipling can be rather complex. Here is
what helps me. Each time I meet with someone, I intentionally look into
her eyes and “see the world.” What this implies is that I can visualize that
person passing on what she has learned to another who will pass it on
yet again. This perspective alters how I disciple another. Throughout the
discipleship process, I ask questions such as, “You have been learning
how to memorize important verses. How would you help one of your
friends understand the value of memorizing verses?” When she begins
ministering to others, I occasionally go along as a coach. This is aimed at
the first generation. To imprint the image of extending discipleship to the
second generation, I urge whoever I am discipling to look into the eyes of
the person they are ministering to and see the world.

Prayer for Collegiate Ministry
Pray for the salvation of students at each of the 160 campuses where
Navigators serve, across the nation.

17 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 58—

Generous Sowing,
Bountiful Reaping

Gert Doornenbal, Former Eurasia Director of The Navigators

“Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows
generously will also reap generously” (2 Corinthians 9:6).

In Paul’s day, farmers had good reason to sow sparingly. Some hardly
had enough grain to feed their families. They sowed with tears, trusting
God for the best. Their fears were replaced by the joy of harvest. That is
how laboring for Christ can be, too.

We sow sparingly in all kinds of ways. Life is expensive and the future
is uncertain, so we reason, “Let’s not increase our giving this year.” Life
is busy and we’re easily tired and agitated, so we think, “Let’s not get too
involved in ministry.” People who sow sparingly are left with a guilty
conscience, knowing they are withholding from God what is His. Their
guilt robs them of joy.

But the person who sows generously has a clear conscience. He looks
to God instead of circumstances. He sows generously and reaps joy and
satisfaction. In so doing he learns that joy springs from self-forgetfulness.

Deciding to sow bountifully is a matter of trusting Him. Not sitting on
the fence but setting well-considered goals with God is the way to joyful
Christian living. God promises His help, at all times and adequately.
Generous sowing in the Kingdom of God brings bountiful reaping. This is
the key to joy.

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

TIP: Ongoing outreach and sacrificial ministry for the good of other people
is a mark of believers who finish well.

18 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 59—

How Is My Walk?
Melody Mead, Military Ministry, Colorado

I love to walk. Walking carries with it the idea of making one’s
way, progressing along one’s journey, and making the most of our
opportunities. This takes some intentionality nowadays. We are a hurried
society, especially in America. In other cultures, your walk is your
journey, your life.

Jesus had specific things to say about walking—and we are to make
the most of it. Second Corinthians 5:7 says, “walk by faith.” First John 2:6
(nasb) says, “Walk in the same manner as [Jesus] walked.” Psalm 26:3
instructs us to “walk in the truth.” And Matthew 28:19 says, “As you are
going, make disciples.” This word “going” also means walking through
your life.

I often try to picture Jesus on His way, talking, touching, teaching, and
never hurried. His life would draw me in, calm me down, focus me, and
set me on course. As I go on my way and walk my journey, does my life
do this for others? Or do they look at me and not want my life because it
is too full, too fast, and too self-absorbed? Am I making the most of the
opportunities on which my journey takes me? Do others want to walk
with me as I walk with Jesus?

Prayer for Military Ministry
Pray for our future growth and impact within the military and that we will
see God provide laborers for His harvest.

19 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 60—

Personalizing Scripture
Anglea Dion, Discipleship Journal Contributor

One way to inject new life into your interaction with the Scriptures
is to personalize and paraphrase meaningful verses. To select a verse,
consider the following options.

▶ A verse that’s been coming up often in your life.
▶ A verse that’s often been comforting or meaningful to you.
▶ A verse related to a particular struggle, such as anger, worry, or pride.

Once you’ve chosen a verse, read it slowly several times. Pay attention
to the way it naturally breaks down into words and phrases. Write one
word or phrase per line in a notebook; then skip two or three lines to
allow room for your paraphrase.

Now begin rewriting each phrase using your own words, personalizing
the verse to your situation. When you see the words “you” or “we” in
reference to believers, substitute your name. If words such as “trial” or
“sin” relate to your circumstances, describe what you’re facing.

If you’re not sure how to restate something, try a thesaurus. Make sure
the words flow from one line to the next. You want your final paraphrase
to read as a complete thought.

Now meditate on the different facets of truth you’ve discovered. Ask God
to show you what He wants you to learn and how to apply it to your life.

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

TIP: Memorizing scripture is a great way to build a foundation of truth in
your life. The Topical Memory System is a great way to start, visit www.
navpress.com and enter “The Topical Memory System” in the search box.

20 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 61—

Security and
Significance

Keith Pepsny, Collegiate Ministry, Washington

I have a phrase that I often say when playing golf, especially if I
am with people who are actually good at the game: “I am secure and
significant in Christ.” Usually, there is a slight chuckle as I express the
words, but there is also a sense of seriousness as well.

If you have ever spent any time trying to a hit a tiny little ball into
a tiny little hole with a metal stick, you might understand how fun yet
agonizing golf can be. A few years ago, I started asking the question, why
do I get so frustrated and upset when I hook, slice, and score much higher
than the average Joe. It’s no fun for me and it’s no fun for anyone else
around me.  After much thought and prayer, Psalm 67:2 and John 17:22
came to mind. I sensed God saying through those verses, “Keith, you
want fame and honor in every aspect of your life, even golf.  Let it go!  I
have already given it to you.  Your salvation and honor depend on Me,
and because of Jesus, I have given you all the glory you’ll ever need.”

As we seek to encourage and disciple our friends and neighbors,
may they sense our security and significance in Christ in everyday life,
whether it’s parenting, going to work, or even playing golf.  This may be
one of our greatest contributions in helping them know God.

TIP: “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be
transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test
and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will”
(Romans 12:2).

21 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 62—

Always Ready

Sherry Graf, Collegiate Ministry, South Dakota

Unprepared to share the Gospel, I ran out to my car to grab my
Bible. What started as a simple get-to-know-you lunch soon became
something much more important. This young sophomore checking out
The Navigators campus ministry was clearly searching for a relationship
with God. When I returned to our table, I asked Sally to read Romans
6:23 while I drew The Bridge, a simple Gospel illustration that walks you
through that verse. We discussed what it means to have a relationship
with God, and she prayed to accept Christ.

That autumn afternoon with Sally was the perfect example of why we
should, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you
to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15b). Countless
times I’ve gone out intentionally to share the Gospel with others and
ended up only planting seeds. This time I had not planned on sharing, but
the opportunity was set before me. All that practice prepared me for this
chance meeting.

God graciously used me to reap a harvest in Sally’s heart where others
had already sown seeds of faith. What a great reminder to always be ready
to share about the hope you have in Christ, even when you think you’re
only going out for lunch!

TIP: The Bridge to Life illustration portrays the Gospel clearly, using simple
diagrams and selected scriptures to explain the need for salvation and how
to come to faith in Christ. www.navigators.org/resources

22 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 63—

Imitators of Christ
Judy Miller, Church Discipleship Ministry, Texas

“We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not
only the gospel of God but our lives as well” (1 Thessalonians 2:8).

Life-to-life discipleship: Even though the term hadn’t been coined
when Paul, Silas, and Timothy were around, they were modeling it. In this
verse, Paul reminds the Thessalonians of how they were discipled. They
did more than teach them with words, they shared their very lives. First
Thessalonians 5 talks about how they lived among them for their sakes.
Their objective was clear: that the Thessalonians would learn from them
and become imitators of Christ.

Paul uses three words to describe how they were discipled. They were
encouraged, comforted, and urged to make their lives worthy of God.

Paul, Silas, and Timothy were modeling the life of Christ. As they
shared their lives with others, they were teaching lessons on discipleship.
As they lived among them, they got to know them. As they got to know
them, they knew how to help them take the next step spiritually.

Yes, life-to-life discipleship is a commitment of self and time, but oh so
worth it. Paul expressed it well when he called it “a delight” to share your
life with someone, encouraging them to become imitators of Christ.

Prayer for Church Discipleship Ministry
Pray that we will find ways to go deeper with pastors in our ministry
network to increase our impact on many churches.

23 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 64—

When Disciples
Behave Badly

Scott Morton, International Funding, Colorado

Do you enjoy correcting a fellow believer who’s behaving badly? I
don’t, yet admonishing is part of our job description as disciplers; the
Scriptures exhort us to love other believers enough to confront them.
Four words from 2 Timothy 3:16 get at the heart of gentle restoration.

Teach. Before you confront, ask: Does she know the teaching? If
someone is engaging in destructive criticism, does she understand the
Bible’s teaching about a critical spirit? If you suspect she does not, do a
short Bible study with her on the topic.

Reprove. This word means to expose or convince, perhaps like this:
“Will you give me permission to mention something I’ve noticed?” If she
says OK, you can continue. “I may have misheard you, but I thought you
said some critical things about your pastor. That seems inconsistent with
what the Scriptures teach. Do you see what I’m saying?”

Correct. Move on to the more positive area of correcting: “I struggle
with criticism, too. Let’s determine in upcoming studies to avoid criticism
of the pastor or anyone else, OK?”

Encourage. Now reinforce the teaching by encouragement: “Your
comments about the pastor at Bible study last night were really uplifting.”

Though confronting involves risk, it isn’t optional. By following
biblical guidelines, we can fulfill the mandate to “admonish one another”
even as we are “speaking the truth in love.”

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

TIP: “Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain
from sinful desires, which war against your soul” (1 Peter 2:11).

24 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 65—

Seeking
Hidden Treasure

Dane Allphin, Church Discipleship Ministry, Ohio

I received a large check from a friend, and in the midst of a busy week,
I left it in the foyer until I could take care of it. When I went back for
it, it wasn’t there. I looked all over the house, even in my car, but it was
nowhere. I was stressed.

We’ve all lost things, and when it’s something valuable, we go to all sorts
of effort to find it. Proverbs speaks of searching for something precious.

“If you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then
you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God”
(Proverbs 2:4,5, esv).

The “it” in this passage is wisdom. Where do we find it? It’s in God’s
Word. We’re willing to search our whole house for missing treasure, yet
why are we reluctant to search the Bible for spiritual treasures? Take a
moment to gauge your desire to seek for the hidden treasures found in
your Bible.

Late in the evening I noticed the trash man had not taken one of our
cans. After digging through the kitchen trash, I found that wonderful
yellow check my friend had sent. I was overjoyed and thanked the Lord!

He has wonderful, life-giving treasures just waiting for us. We just have
to open God’s Word and start digging.

Prayer for Collegiate Ministry
Pray that our staff’s ministry to students will come out of their own rich
encounters with Jesus.

25 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 66—

Too Busy to Obey?
Lisa Marzano, Discipleship Journal Contributor

God tailors unique opportunities for each of us to obey. We can
surrender our agendas and learn to hear Him more clearly as we do the
following.

Practice listening. When I practice listening to God in the quiet of my
prayer closet, I can better recognize His voice in the noise of the world.

Be honest. Sometimes I don’t want to be obedient and care only about
myself. When I honestly admit my feelings to God, I’m more likely to
hear Him when He speaks to me.

Be willing to be weird. Sometimes obedience feels weird. Like
Martha, many people believe that we must be busy to be productive. We
overcommit because that’s “normal.” If we’re not busy, we fear others will
see us as lazy or unspiritual or unimportant. But if I want to be obedient
in each moment, I do and say what the Father directs. How often do I say
no when God’s leading seems weird to me or when I fear it will appear
strange to others? I wonder if Jesus felt weird staying two extra days,
knowing that Lazarus was dying. Mary and Martha certainly did not
understand at first. Likewise, obedience may sometimes feel strange to us.

It’s our job to be obedient in each moment; it’s up to God to weave
those moments of obedience into a tapestry that glorifies Him.

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

TIP: God is Adonai. This name means “Master” or “Lord.” God as Adonai calls
all His people to acknowledge themselves as His servants, recognizing His
right to command them as the Lord of their lives. Read 2 Samuel 7:18–20.

26 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 67—

Scratching
Where They Itch

Mistie Hutchinson, Church Discipleship Ministry, Alabama

How do we determine someone’s needs in a discipling relationship?
Here are some ideas that have helped me.

1. Ask God for guidance. It seems obvious, but I’ve noticed how
easily I slide into relying on my own experience and knowledge. I
want to discern what God might want to accomplish in a person’s
life and to cooperate with Him in this process.

2. Ask good questions and listen attentively. I’ve found the following
questions helpful: What do you feel your needs are? Where would
you like to see growth? As we get to know a person better, our
questions will become more focused as specific issues emerge.

3. Differentiate between felt needs and real needs. I discipled
Brenda, who thought her most important need was learning how
to be a godly wife and mother. This is noble, but Brenda wasn’t
married, didn’t have any children, and wasn’t dating anyone.
Brenda was articulating a felt need. After talking with her, I began
to see a real need, something God was orchestrating in her life right
then. Felt needs can serve as a bridge to addressing real needs.

This process may involve extra time and effort, and it does force us to
relinquish our agendas. But the rewards of being in step with God’s work
in someone’s life are well worth it.

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

Prayer for 20s Ministry
Pray that we will help people in this generation share Christ with sensitivity
and wisdom through their actions and words.

27 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 68—

Spoken For

Rusty Rustenbach, People Resources Team, Colorado

Perhaps the most hurtful and damaging wound a person can
experience is to be rejected or not wanted. This is why separation and
divorce can be so painful and devastating. In some situations, children
that witness the constant arguing, conflict, and/or divorce of their parents
may unwittingly conclude that nobody wants them.

The opposite of being unwanted or rejected is to be “spoken for.” To
be spoken for is to be taken or reserved for someone. Isaiah 62:2b–5
(msg) is a powerful passage of God speaking for His chosen people:
“You’ll get a brand-new name straight from the mouth of God.
You’ll be a
stunning crown in the palm of God’s hand, a jeweled gold cup held high
in the hand of your God. No more will anyone call you Rejected. . . . As a
bridegroom is happy in his bride, so your God is happy with you.”

Before a person can be spoken for by God, he or she must first be
spoken to. Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they
follow me” (John 10:27). Jesus Christ speaks to us today. He speaks to us,
if we are listening, and He speaks for us. He has purchased us by His shed
blood, and He has engraved us on the palms of His hands (Isaiah 49:16).

TIP: “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice
and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me”
(Revelation 3:20).

28 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 69—

Little Eyes and Ears
Jamie Coraor, Former Communications Staff

I love it when my oldest son cocks his head to the side as he begins
to explain some important truth to his little brother. He uses his “adult”
voice and often repeats something verbatim that I’ve recently taught to
him. Then he looks at me with a little smile that says, I got it, Mom. I was
listening.

 My husband and I have the huge opportunity of shepherding the
hearts of two little boys. If we can do that well, there will be enormous
benefits for their lives. The greatest accomplishment of my life would be
to raise up two men who love Jesus, live with integrity, seek wisdom, and
love people.

Teaching my children who God is, how much He loves them, and His
purpose for their lives means I need to know who God is, how much He
loves me, and His purpose for my life. Quite honestly, it would be a lot
easier to teach them how to be anxious and fearful. But that’s not what I’m
going for here.

The challenge of little eyes and ears watching and listening can
sometimes overwhelm me and send me into a spiral of I’m not doing
enough, I’m not being intentional, I’m spending too much time on the
Internet, I can’t even keep my house clean! But, thankfully, God welcomes
my honesty, gives me another chance, and often gives me an opportunity
to see what He is doing through me.

TIP: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your
God. I will strengthen and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous
right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).

29 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 70—

Jump-Start Your
Spiritual Battery

Randy Raysbrook, Metro Ministry, Colorado

Boredom kills intimacy. What can I do to keep my relationship with
God fresh, vital, and meaningful? Here are some ideas:

1. Go on an ego fast. Whenever you start to talk about yourself or
something you want, consciously choose to focus on others.

2. Let God question you. For one week allow God to ask you the
questions in your quiet time. What would He ask about your time,
your secret attitudes, your goals, your pain, or your fears?

3. Pray with small children. What do you discover about your own
prayer life after listening to theirs?

4. Read outside your comfort zone. Pick up books representing
theological perspectives different from your own.

5. Pray through the newspaper. Politics, law, economics, crime, and
social issues have implications for us as Christians.

6. Explore unknown territory. Select a book of the Bible you have
not read or studied, and spend time in it.

7. Take a vow of silence. Remove yourself, as much as possible, from
the noise around you. Try not to speak, consecrate that time to
God, and listen intently to Him.

8. Practice redemptive remembrance. Recall in detail each time God
“saved” you and let Him know how you feel about each one.

Adapted from 23 Ways to Jump-Start Your Spiritual Battery, ©Randy Raysbrook.

TIP: One-Verse Evangelism® is a simple, interactive way to share Christ’s
love conversationally and visually using just one verse, Romans 6:23. Go to:
my.navigators.org/oneverse

30 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 71—

The Adventure of
Men Discipling Men

Dean Ridings, Church Discipleship Ministry, Colorado

The apostle Paul knew the adventure of men discipling men. Wherever
his missionary journeys took him, he always had traveling companions,
men like Barnabas, Silas, and Luke. No doubt they encouraged and
spurred him on in the faith. All the while he intentionally built up men in
the Lord who would do the same with others.

Timothy’s another example. On a ministry trip to Lystra, Paul met this
promising young man, invited him to join in the adventure, and invested
in him along the way. Timothy became “my true son in the faith,” a man
he eventually trusted as pastor of the church in Ephesus (Acts 16:1–3;
1 Timothy 1:2,3).

Near the end of his life, Paul charged his young protégé to continue
the adventure with others: “And the things you have heard me say in the
presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be
qualified to teach others” (2 Timothy 2:2, niv).

Recently, I had an opportunity to show what this looks like today. At a
men’s event, Bob shared how he’d discipled a man named Mike from his
church. Mike then spoke of how this led him to look for a man, and he
called up Evan. Wouldn’t you know it? Evan talked about how he’s now
building into teens’ lives.

“Why join the adventure?” I asked. Bob, Mike, and Evan responded as
if one man: “God commands us to make disciples!”

Prayer for Church Discipleship Ministry
Please pray for continued development of our coaching culture throughout
our Church Discipleship Ministry.

31 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 72—

The Flip Side of Failure
Rebecca Barlow Jordan, Discipleship Journal Contributor

We all make mistakes, but our failures don’t have to destroy us. Peter
failed miserably when he denied Jesus. But later we see a resilient, bold
Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, stand up and preach one of the greatest
evangelistic sermons ever delivered (Acts 2:14–41). And how did Jesus
respond to Peter’s betrayal? The resurrected Christ never referred to it again.

How does God respond to our failures? “Though he fall, he shall not
be utterly cast down” (Psalm 37:24, kjv). The Hebrew word for “fall” can
be interpreted “fail.” God will not cast us away. And though we may fail,
we do not have to be failures.

Can you hear Jesus’ words to you? He’s saying, “I know you’re going
to fall. To you, it may seem like the end. But I’m here, not to whip you
into shape, not to laugh at your weaknesses, not to excuse your sin, but
to hold you up. What you see as failure, I see as an opportunity to show
you My power. What you see as imperfection, I see as an opportunity
to experience My grace. I’ve made it possible for your failure to lead to
success. The decision is up to you.”

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

TIP: God is sovereign. God is in control of our lives. His sovereignty is the
attribute by which He rules His entire creation. To be sovereign, God must
be all-knowing and all-powerful. Read 1 Chronicles 29:11–13.

32 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 73—

Walk Closely

Matt Dorn, Church Discipleship Ministry, Massachusetts

“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy
may be complete.” (John 15:11)

Hiking in the hills above Glen Eyrie yesterday I saw firsthand how the
Waldo Canyon fire had recently marched upon these special grounds of
The Navigators ministry. While many acres of surrounding forest were
sadly lost, the main facilities and grounds of Glen Eyrie were spared. As I
sat there and prayed, I could hear God’s gentle voice saying to me, “I love
you.” I hope you hear it, too.

Are the “fires” of life surrounding you today? Climb up to the heights
of God’s perspective and listen to Him say, “If you remain in me and my
words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you”
(John 15:7). Jesus goes on to invite us to remain in His love and to soak
in His joy. He calls us His friends and invites us to walk with Him as His
followers. When we walk closely with Him, His joy overflows into us,
somehow becoming our joy, and even overflowing to others.

Whether your life today is marked by the raging fires of turmoil or the
cool breezes of God’s blessing, walk closely with Him and invite someone
else to join you in your journey.

Prayer for Military Ministry
Pray that our staff and laborers will develop new and formative
relationships with future leaders of the various branches of the United
States military.

33 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 74—

Are You
Still Growing?

Don Whitney, Discipleship Journal Contributor

We are commanded in 2 Peter 3:18, “But grow in the grace and
knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” How can we know we are
making real progress in growing in grace?

Trying to determine the progress of a soul is like looking at the growth
of an oak—you can’t actually see it growing at the moment, but you can
compare it to where it once was. The following 10 questions can help you
discern whether you are maturing spiritually. Use them to evaluate the
past 6 to 12 months.

1. Are you more thirsty for God than ever before?
2. Are you more and more loving, sacrificing your own preferences,

plans, or rights for those of others?
3. Are you more sensitive to and aware of God?
4. Are you governed more and more by God’s Word?
5. Are you concerned more with the physical and spiritual needs of

others?
6. Are you more concerned with the Church and the Kingdom of

God?
7. Are the spiritual disciplines more important to you?
8. Are you more aware of your sin?
9. Are you quicker to forgive others?
10. Are you thinking more of heaven and being with the Lord Jesus?

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

Prayer for 20s Ministry
Please join us in praying for a deep and far-reaching cross-missional effort
in Atlanta in mid-2013.

34 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 75—

When the
Brook Dries Up

Leura Jones, Former Communications Staff

“Then the word of the Lord came to Elijah: ‘Leave here, turn eastward
and hide in the Kerith Ravine, east of the Jordan. You will drink from the
brook, and I have ordered the ravens to feed you there.’ So he did what
the Lord had told him. . . . Some time later the brook dried up” (1 Kings
17:2–7a).

Sometimes God dries up one brook so He can move us to another.
Five years ago, I was thriving at my “brook.” Through my job, I got
to be involved in discipling people all over the world—military people,
international students. I was using my strengths while never leaving the
safety of my cubicle!
Then the brook dried up. God moved me out of the cubicle and into
the world. The discipling I do now is much more personal. I’ve had to
become more transparent and more comfortable with the potential for
rejection. I’ve learned patience and perseverance with people that I could
not have learned behind a desk. I’ve grown not only as a discipler, but as a
disciple.
When Elijah’s brook dried up, God sent him to a widow who provided
for his needs. When our brook dries up, we may stumble and grieve, but
we can trust in God’s faithfulness. His new provision will be exactly what
we need.

TIP: God is faithful. Our hope for the future rests upon God’s faithfulness.
Because He is faithful, His covenants will stand and His promises will be
honored. Read Psalm 89:1–8.

35 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 76—

Be a H.I.P. Disciple
Randy Weyeneth, Collegiate Ministry, Colorado

A 5-tool baseball player has extraordinary maturity and skill. He has
great speed, hits for average and power, excellent throwing, and excellent
defense. Only a select few, like the great Willie Mays, exhibit all five skills.

Not everyone can mature as a baseball player, but God desires for all
Christians to mature in their walk with Him (Colossians 1:28,29), not just
a select few. Tragically, far too many never get beyond “first base.” Lack
of spiritual growth minimizes service to God and smolders commitment
to help fulfill the Great Commission. Pride, greed, and impurity cause
“strikeouts.”

Our spirit is reborn at conversion. Continue to “run the bases” and
transform your soul (mind, will, emotions) by renewing your mind
through Scripture (Romans 12:2). How? The continued memorization
and meditation of Scripture will rebuild your thought structures, refocus
your emotions, and redirect your will.

That’s biblical transformation, and it’s not optional! Transformation
means growth and maturity. Maturity is marked by three qualities:
Humility, Integrity, and Purity (H.I.P.).

Very few people become 5-tool baseball players. However, God
is looking for all Christians to become H.I.P. disciples. Will you
choose today to be a person of humility, integrity, and purity through
transforming your mind, will, and emotions?

Prayer for Collegiate Ministry
Pray for our staff as they balance ministry with being parents to their own
children, that they would have the grace, love, patience, and support they
need.

36 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 77—

If I Could
Live My Life Over

Bob Boardman, Launched Navigator Ministry in Japan

The Bible tells not only of successes but also of failures by individuals and
nations—failures that teach us lessons. We are to learn from the past. If I can
tell you in a positive, constructive way about my own failures and mistakes,
and thereby challenge you not to repeat them, it is a valid venture. If I can
help just one other person avoid one of my pitfalls, then I rejoice.

If I could live my life again, I would seek to make the following changes:
1. I would stand more boldly upon my God-given calling and not be

so fearful.
2. While my children were young, I would spend more time with

them in worship, in spiritual disciplines, and in just enjoying life.
3. I would ask God for greater blessings and victories, claiming His

mighty promises.
4. By God’s grace, I would turn more quickly from temptation and

sin.
5. I would welcome trials and failures as menders of my character.
6. I would ask more of people under my leadership and not be so

cautious with them.
7. I would be more single-minded in following a lifetime program of

personal Bible study and Scripture memory.
8. I would develop a hobby earlier in life.

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

TIP: Those who finish well maintain an ongoing learning posture through
the seasons of their lives. Humility and responsive obedience are the keys
to maintaining a teachable spirit.

37 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 78—

Got Stillness?
Dave Mead, Military Ministry, Colorado

“Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). One way to practice
stillness is through solitude and silence. We see God use a place of
emptiness and quiet, the desert, in lives of many of His Kingdom leaders.
Moses, Elijah, Jesus, and Paul were propelled forward in their design and
destiny after times of stillness. In Luke 4:1, Jesus enters the desert full of
the Holy Spirit. In verse 14, He leaves the desert in the power of the Holy
Spirit. Stillness allows the Holy Spirit to recalibrate, refresh, release, and
empower us into His purposes. Got stillness?

Solitude and silence is a way of opening ourselves up to the presence
of God that’s beyond human effort. When I’m still, I find myself releasing
concerns and anxious thoughts and receiving His affirmation, comfort,
and guidance—fully congruent with my circumstances and design.

As I finished two days of solitude and silence in June 2012, the Lord
clearly said, “Get rest today in order to be prepared for the opportunities
tomorrow.” Unknown to me, the flame, which in three quick days
would consume 346 houses in Colorado Springs—including ours—had
already ignited. God had given me rest and insight. Stillness provided
my body, mind, and soul the needed restoration and recalibration for the
challenging road ahead. Got stillness?

Prayer for NavVida
Pray for the staff of NavVida, The Navigator ministry to Hispanics, that
we will see great fruitfulness as we make disciples in Latino/Hispanic
churches across the country.

38 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 79—

Spiritual Influence
Lorne Sanny, Former President of The Navigators

Perhaps the simplest definition of spiritual leadership is that it is
influence: influencing the attitudes and actions of others toward God. You
and I should have a vision for the entire world. But we can’t minister to
the whole world. We ought to have a ministry to a small group of people
given to us by God as our special responsibility.

Well, you say, like who? You start with your family—your spouse, then
your children. How about your parents, other relatives, and of course
the people you work with? Just look around. God has given you all the
people you need to have a ministry. The question then becomes, are you
revealing God to them, as Jesus did to His disciples? And what does it
mean to reveal God?

Those around us should see evidence in our lives of growth in love
and holiness. Love is an unselfish concern that freely accepts another
and seeks his good. And holiness, I believe, begins with humility. “God
opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). No one can
have spiritual influence if God is against him. But God gives His grace to
the humble.

The essence of spiritual leadership—influencing others toward
God—is that “we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and
ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake” (2 Corinthians 4:5).

Used with permission of Discipleship Journal.

Prayer for 20s Ministry
Many people in their 20s today have a heart to change the world for
the better, to take on injustice, to care for the helpless, and to be good
stewards of the earth. Pray that they will grow in faith so they can act with
the power and love of the Holy Spirit.

39 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

—DAY 80—

Last Words

David Colston, Church Discipleship Ministry, Georgia

Let’s fast forward to the end of your life. You’re aware that this is your
last day on earth and are fortunate enough to have those you love by your
side. No one needs to remind you that you have limited time with them.
So what would you say?

Now let’s rewind to some of Jesus’ last words. Jesus said, “Go make
disciples” (Matthew 28:19). He said these words to His disciples just
before He ascended into heaven. Their model was clear, for He had just
spent the past three-and-a-half years discipling them. He was telling them
to go pour into others’ hearts what He had poured into theirs, doing it the
way He did it with them—life on life, shoulder to shoulder, nose to nose.
How important should these last words be to us, His followers today? We
should hold these words in our hearts as Jesus held them in His.

How significant are the words, “Go make disciples,” to you? Enough
that they are demonstrated through your life? Do you make key decisions
in light of these words? Or do you need to adjust the way you live in
response to these words? Take a moment and imagine what your life
might look like if you did exactly as Jesus said and made disciples the way
Jesus did.

TIP: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in
the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching
them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20a).

40 80 DAYS OF DISCIPLESHIP | BOOK TWO

Thank you to all of the contributors.
May God use your experiences
to encourage and bless others!

© 2013 by The Navigators
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from
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Discipleship Journal, published 1981 to 2009 by NavPress, a ministry of The Navigators. Used with permission. All
rights reserved. Archives available at www.navpress.com.
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INTERNATIONAL VERSION (NIV, 1984). Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, (formerly International
Bible Society), used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House. All rights reserved. Other versions used
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American Standard Bible (NASB). Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977 The Lockman
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New Living Translation (NLT), copyright © 1996, used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. All rights
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© 2013, THE NAVIGATORS