This resource is part of Northside’s Intentional Discipleship Plan (IDP). If you are not familiar with IDP, it is a vehicle we use to help every individual become a more fully devoted follower of Christ and help others do the same. The first step in using IDP as a personal growth plan is taking a 15 statement Spiritual Self-Assessment to give you a baseline indication of where you currently are on your journey. Once you take the assessment, you will be directed to content to help you grow specifically in the areas your assessment has identified as growth opportunities. This content includes a video from Northside ministers and staff that will give you ideas and suggestions on how to grow in these areas and external content from trusted pastors and authors with expert advice on how to grow in these areas as well. If you would like to join the many people who use IDP to grow in their relationship with Christ, start by clicking HERE to take the Spiritual Self-Assessment.
In addition to IDP, one of the best next steps to take is studying these areas in Scripture. The Bible is an invitation to grow in our relationship with Christ. It serves as the map to our journey of maturing as a disciple.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)
Below are suggested Scriptures to pour into that will help you grow in Statement #13 of the Spiritual Self-Assessment, which is:
I am comfortable sharing my testimony of what God has done in my life with others.
Whether you have started IDP or not, reading these Bible verses will help you identify why this spiritual growth area is so important, and allow God to start guiding your way.
Where To Begin? Take some time to look up and study these Scriptures. Don’t dive in all at once, study 2-3 passages at a time. The goal is not to get through Scripture, but to get Scripture through you.
How To Study? We recommend beginning with the S.O.A.P method. This is an easy to use tool to help you observe Scripture, and apply biblical principles to your life. S.O.A.P. can easily be used for a daily devotional quiet time or with a friend. Here is how it works…
- Scripture: Choose a passage of the Bible. Read the verses, writing down or highlighting meaningful words or phrases that stand out to you. It may help to read the passage in two different Bible translations.
- Observation: Using the verses, observe what you read and ask further questions about the text. Use these questions to help: What is the overall message of the passage? Are there any commands or instructions? Are there any warnings? What truth can I learn? What is God wanting to show me through His Word?
- Application: Reflect on how you can apply these Scriptures to your daily life. Use these questions to help: How can I live out what I just read? What habits, attitudes, or changes do I need to make? What lessons can I take away from this passage? Whom do I need to share this passage with?
- Prayer: Close your time in prayer. Ask God to help you live out what you are learning in the passage.
For more guidance, check out How To Start Reading The Bible.
For more resources on this topic, click HERE.