The Sacrifice of Discipleship: Do You Have What It Takes?

By Becky Squire

Millions of people believe in Jesus Christ, but does that mean they are disciples? It’s great to know what you believe, but knowledge in and of itself is not a hallmark of discipleship. As Paul says, knowledge puffs up. Love, by contrast, builds up.

Consider your own discipleship. It’s great to believe. It’s even better to love. And it’s best to do. I feel like I’ve heard that somewhere before. What actions will you take to build your own discipleship? In 2009, President Uchtdorf shared several steps we can take to start or continue right where we currently stand. 

Let us be humble.

James L. Ferrell said, “Righteousness is simply a humble understanding of how unrighteous one is coupled with a deep commitment to become better.” We must continually commit to learn of and draw closer to Christ.

Have faith.

Marjorie Pay Hinckley wisely stated, “First I obey, then I understand.” That is the essence of faith, isn’t it? We may not understand today or even soon, but we must take action now so we can be blessed with a sure knowledge.

Seek and you will find.

One of the greatest gifts we have is personal revelation; to know for ourselves. President Nelson has warned that “in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.” That day is here. Ask. Seek. Knock.

Serve the Lord by serving others.

Every one of us has unique attributes we can use to serve someone the Lord has placed in our path. What a wonderful gift! Neal A. Maxwell said, “God does not begin by asking us about our ability, but only about our availability, and if we then prove our dependability, he will increase our capability!”

Become an active participant in your ward or branch.

Again, we are surrounded by children of God who need us. And we need them. We need each other and that is why the church is organized into wards and branches. We don’t have to be alone.

Strengthen your family.

We must commit to live the principles of the gospel in our families. Is your home more often filled with contention or love? Is there competition where there should be unity? Our families should always be of one heart and of one mind.

Adjust your lives to be able to have a temple recommend and use it.

Elder D. Todd Christofferson said, “True success in this life comes in consecrating our lives – that is, our time and choices – to God’s purposes. In so doing, we permit Him to raise us to our highest destiny.”

Have meaningful Family Home Evenings.

President Benson taught that we should take time to have a meaningful weekly home evening. This can become a wonderful tradition for your family. It doesn’t always have to be a formal event. Mix it up with games, sports, activities, etc. But always let your family be taught by the spirit.

Fill our hearts with gratitude.

We have so much to be grateful for: The Restoration of the Church, living prophets, the Book of Mormon, and the priesthood power that blesses our lives. President Gordon B. Hinckley said, “Gratitude is the very essence of worship.” Let’s worship better by filling our hearts with gratitude.

Embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ.

President Nelson said, “The day is gone when you can be a quiet and comfortable Christian. Your religion is not just about showing up for church on Sunday. It is about showing up as a true disciple from Sunday morning through Saturday night — 24/7! There is no such thing as a “part-time disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ.”

When I was a senior in high school, I served on our seminary council. One of our assignments was to choose the theme for the school year. After a lot of thought, prayer, and discussion, we unitedly chose the scripture Romans 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ.”

Will you join the ranks to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? Or will you be ashamed? Will you yield to the loud and popular voices of the world? Or will you listen to the still small voice of the Spirit? Will you be careful, or casual?

What are you willing to sacrifice for the gospel of Jesus Christ? And what can you do to become even more dedicated to the Savior? The next step on your path to discipleship starts now.