Encouraging Other in Their Walk with Christ

Have you ever felt like you’re not equipped to encourage someone else in their walk with Christ? Maybe you’ve thought, “I mess up too much—how could I help someone else when I’m still trying to hold myself together?” If so, you're not alone. Many Christians feel inadequate when it comes to discipling or encouraging others in their faith.

But here’s the truth: no matter where you are in your walk with Jesus, you are called to be a disciple and to make disciples. That might leave you wondering, “What exactly is a disciple, and how do I disciple someone else?” At its core, being a disciple means following Jesus, being transformed by Him, and joining in His mission. 

Encouraging others in their faith is a key part of discipleship. It’s the intentional process of helping someone grow in their relationship with God and become more like Christ. Encouragement isn’t just a kind word—it’s a powerful reminder of what’s true when life gets hard, and one of the most meaningful ways we reflect Jesus to the people around us.

If you’re seeking to disciple someone, or just need a few reminders in the process, keep these foundational truths in mind:

1. Be a Disciple First

Before you guide someone else, make sure you're rooted in your own walk with Christ. You cannot lead someone where you haven’t gone yourself.

• Lay a firm foundation in your own life before trying to help lay someone else’s.
• Make time for spiritual growth—study Scripture, seek accountability, and pursue personal discipleship.
• Remember: our lives are designed to glorify God and reflect His character. The way you live speaks louder than what you say.
• Your “building blocks” must be strong—and that strength must come from Christ alone.

2. Your Story Has Purpose

Your testimony isn’t accidental. No matter how ordinary or messy it may seem, God can use your story to point someone else to Him.

• Don’t underestimate the power of sharing your own journey—your story may be what helps someone recognize the love and grace of Jesus.
• It’s not about having a polished past; it’s about showing how God has worked in and through your life.
• Your story is a unique testimony of God's faithfulness, redemption, and grace in real life.

3. Start With What You Know

You don’t need to have all the answers to begin discipling someone. You simply need a heart willing to walk alongside another.

• Use the knowledge and experiences you already have—it’s more than enough to get started.
• And if you feel like you don’t know much, just show up and be present. Consistency and care go a long way in the discipleship journey.
• God works through humility and availability, not perfection.

4. Stay Rooted in Awe of God

Discipleship isn’t about what you can do—it’s about what Christ is doing through you. Lose sight of Him, and the mission becomes skewed.

• If your awe of God fades, you risk turning this sacred work into a checklist—something that feels heavy, performative, or legalistic.
• We cannot disciple well apart from Christ. When we try to do it on our own, we risk making it about our moral success instead of God's transforming grace.
• Keep Jesus at the center. Let every conversation, every prayer, and every step of this journey flow from a deep love for Him.

Discipleship isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about being faithful, available, and deeply rooted in Christ. As you walk with others, remember to first walk closely with Him. Your story matters, your presence is powerful, and your growth sets the tone. Keep Jesus at the center, stay in awe of who He is, and let your life reflect the grace and truth you hope others will come to know. You’re not doing this alone—He is with you every step of the way, equipping and sustaining you. 

This calling to disciple others is a direct response to Jesus’ own prayer for more laborers in His harvest—those moved by compassion and willing to join Him in reaching the lost and broken (Matthew 9). The harvest is still plentiful, and the need is still great. One of the most meaningful ways we live out our faith is by encouraging someone else in their journey with God. When we do, we step into Jesus’ mission and reflect His heart to the world around us.