The Pathway of a Disciple

Today we’re talking about what it means to walk the path of a disciple.

Now, I don’t know about you, but when I think of a pathway, I imagine something scenic and peaceful—but let’s be honest, discipleship can feel more like a hiking trail with unexpected turns, uphill climbs, and a few rocks in the shoes.

Still, it’s the most rewarding walk you’ll ever take.

Luke 9:23 (NLT) — “Then he said to the crowd, ‘If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me.’”

We’re kicking off with what it looks like to start the journey of following Jesus. It's not always a dramatic moment—it can be quiet, ordinary, and still life-changing.

Sometimes, becoming a disciple starts with a simple yes.

What did your first step with Jesus look like?

My first steps were when I was—I think—6 years old. I remember vividly asking Jesus into my heart. Of course, life happens, and things change along the way, and I ended up rededicating my life to Christ quietly when I was 17 at a youth conference in Canada.

Neither time were big things, but both are etched into my memory and are big moments to me.

That’s what matters most when it comes to coming to Christ… that moment is something special between you and our Father God.

Let’s clear something up: being a disciple doesn’t mean you’ve got it all together. It just means you're willing to keep following—even when you trip over your own feet.

I’m thankful that grace is built into this journey because I have stumbled and failed so many times. But knowing that God forgives and that I am able to start anew each day because of His grace keeps me going.

Also, just a reminder—choosing to follow Jesus isn’t just a one-time thing—it’s a daily choice. Like Luke 9:23 says, “Take up your cross daily…” Some days we carry it with joy, and other days we drag it behind us—but we keep walking.

Being a disciple isn’t just about Sunday mornings—it shows up in how we treat the people who cut us off in traffic, how we respond to stress, and how we choose peace over pride.

It’s the little things. It’s the way we walk, talk, and handle ourselves and others. We are to do our best to follow Jesus’ example—and we do that by choosing submission every day.

So, you've started following Jesus... now what?

That’s the biggest question we all have because it’s a new journey and we don’t know how to walk it.

And though we may think, Okay, I’m good now and I can do anything, you need to remember that we will fight our flesh every day. And with that comes detours, potholes, and weather delays. But don’t worry—every good path has them. Let’s talk about the challenges of this walk.

This is not an easy path, but it is worth every bit of struggle and growth. The change will be significant.

Let’s be real—some days, following Jesus is hard. Life throws curveballs. We get discouraged. We wonder if we’re doing it right. But remember, even Peter had rough days—and Jesus still called him ‘rock.’

It’s easy to look around and feel like everyone else has this “Christian thing” figured out. But your path is yours. You don’t have to walk like anyone else—you just have to walk with Jesus.

Luke 9:23 (NLT) — “Then he said to the crowd, ‘If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me.’”

Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is not quit.

Keep showing up.

Keep praying.

Keep loving.

Keep forgiving.

Discipleship is about consistency.

If you’re feeling tired in your walk, you’re not alone. But don’t forget—you’re not walking alone either. God never calls us to a path He won’t walk with us. Keep going. He’s right there beside you.

The walk of a disciple may be hard at times, but wow—the view gets better the further you go. Let’s talk about the joy, the growth, and the fruit that come from sticking with Jesus.

Think about where you were five years ago. Chances are, you've grown in ways you didn’t even notice.

I can tell you right now—I’m not who I was five years ago, and it’s all because of the work God has done in my life.

Discipleship isn’t flashy—but over time, you realize you’ve changed. That’s Jesus working, whether we know it or not.

You don’t have to be a preacher or teacher to impact others. Just being faithful in your walk makes you a living testimony. Your quiet consistency might be someone else’s reason to believe.

Your walk isn’t just for you—it’s an invitation for others. When people see your life, they catch a glimpse of Jesus. Discipleship is contagious, and you never know who you’re inspiring just by being faithful.

There’s something deeply joyful about walking with God—even through hard stuff. You start to notice the little blessings: peace in chaos, strength you didn’t know you had, and purpose in the everyday.

You notice that your own ways of handling life become very different. And that’s because, as we change and grow and learn to walk more as a disciple, the fruits of the Spirit begin to form us into someone who better embodies what it looks like to walk with Christ daily.

Luke 9:23 (NLT) — “Then he said to the crowd, ‘If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me.’”

Remember this: The path of a disciple isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. It’s a journey of becoming—one step at a time. You may not feel like you’re doing it perfectly—but if you’re walking with Jesus, you’re on the right path. So keep following and keep growing in Christ.