A Path to Strength, Stability, and Spiritual Growth

One of the greatest challenges facing young Christians today is the lack of discipleship and mentorship. Many new converts come to Christ with enthusiasm, ready to embrace their newfound faith, only to struggle with spiritual stagnation, confusion, and even drawing back, due to a lack of guidance.

The journey of salvation was never meant to be walked alone, as Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us that two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Yet, in our generation, many believers lack the stability and strength to uphold Christian values and navigate life’s challenges simply because they do not have someone to hold their hand, walk with them, and guide them in their faith.

I am not saying that they do not attend church or get involved in church programs but rather emphasize the essence of having a community of people who hold them accountable. Discipleship is not just a religious program; it is a biblical principle. Jesus himself set the example when He called the twelve disciples, taught them, and equipped them to carry forward the mission of the gospel. Matthew 28:19-20 underscores the importance of making disciples, and the early church flourished because new believers were nurtured, instructed, and held accountable, as seen in Acts 2:42-47.

Without discipleship, many young Christians navigate their faith alone, facing doubts, temptations, and worldly pressures without the necessary spiritual tools and guidance. This often leads to spiritual immaturity, and an inability to withstand life’s challenges, which can ultimately cause them to drift away from their faith.

While discipleship focuses on teaching and spiritual growth, mentorship adds a relational aspect to the journey. A mentor is someone who has walked the path before and can offer wisdom, encouragement, and correction when needed. The Bible highlights powerful mentoring relationships such as Moses and Joshua, Elijah and Elisha, and Paul and Timothy. Having a mentor provides young believers with guidance in decision-making, a safe space for questions and doubts, encouragement during tough seasons, and a living example of Christian maturity. Seeing faith lived out in a mentor’s life is a powerful testimony and model for young Christians to follow.

I got born again in 2006 and was blessed to have mentors who held my hand in the salvation journey. I count it a great privilege to have been discipled, mentored, and groomed in my walk with Christ. Having someone walk alongside me, teach me, and hold me accountable shaped my spiritual foundation. Now, my ministry and maturity in life are anchored on the things I learned through such nurturing. Now, as I look back, I see the fruit and results of that investment. I understand Scripture better, I have developed a resilient faith, and I am able to disciple others in return, as emphasized in 2 Timothy 2:2 You have heard me teach things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others. Sadly, many young Christians today do not have this opportunity or rather ignore it. They are found to figure things out on their own, leading to a generation of believers who lack the stability to uphold Christian values and navigate life’s challenges with the right foundation.

As the body of Christ, we are all called to disciple others. Jesus commanded us to go and make disciples of all nations, and this is not reserved for pastors or church leaders alone; it is a call for every believer. If we have been privileged to receive guidance in our faith, it is our responsibility to extend the same to others. It is crucial to be intentional about discipling others and to create spaces where young Christians can grow, ask questions and be held accountable.

Discipleship is not an optional extra; it is a core part of Christian growth. As believers, we must take up the responsibility to disciple and mentor others, ensuring that the next generation of Christians stands firm in their faith. Who is holding your hand in your faith journey? And more importantly, whose hand are you holding? The call to disciple is for all of us. Let us rise to the occasion and nurture a generation of stable, mature, and deeply rooted Christians, even as we are being nurtured.

Wangari Maathai said, “It’s the little things citizens do, that’s what makes the difference” This quote resonates deeply with the call to faithful, consistent action in following Christ. Discipleship is not always about grand gestures but rather the small, daily acts of obedience, kindness, and love that reflect Christ’s character. Just as Jesus taught that faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains (Matthew 17:20), every prayer, word of encouragement, act of service, and moment spent sharing the gospel contributes to transforming lives and communities. These little things; mentoring a new believer, living with integrity, or showing compassion and others, accumulate to make a lasting impact, fulfilling the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.

May God help us to continue walking in the path of prioritizing what moves heaven. May we find the right vessels to hold our hands and help us grow, even as we avail ourselves to be used of God to do the same.

Stay Blessed.

WiGTyT