Who encouraged you as a discipler? That person undoubtedly helped you persevere and succeed in discipling others. Now is your time to share what God has given you. Here are some pointers on mentoring aspiring disciplers.

�?B>Listen to the reasons they want to disciple others. Help them set and define goals. Encourage them to look for the right target audience: teens, young men, families, or wherever their hearts�?desire lies.

�?B>Share your start. You can instill hope by telling of your successes and struggles. Sharing your good and bad times in discipling may protect new disciplers from future discouragement.

�?B>Find talents. Identify each person’s expertise based on life experiences, hobbies, and gifting. Discuss ways to use these as a bridge to reach others.

�?B>Be supportive. New disciplers are sensitive and vulnerable. If they’re insecure, the wrong words may discourage them forever. Look for positive comments to make.

�?B>Lend your resources. Discuss how tapes, magazines, and books have helped you as a discipler.

�?B>Do a walk-through. Walk through a typical week of discipling. Explain the process of prayer, Bible study, and other activities that are part of being a discipler. Discuss how you blend these commitments with the rest of your life, work, and relationships.

�?B>Celebrate first successes. Invite them to call and celebrate their success in discipling someone. Also, invite them to share their difficulties. Discuss those problems with them, and help them decide what to do next.

�?B>Share your inspiration. Tell what keeps you motivated and how you avoid overcommitment. Share the special scriptures, devotions, or prayer methods that inspire your discipling.

—Karen H. Whiting