Day 23 – Living Boldly: The First Step Before You Start

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An essential first step in discipleship is how you view others. If your disappointment in people is greater than your desire to help them, your ability to disciple effectively will run into many hindrances. Jesus had some strong language for those who made the log/speck mistake.

Rick’s 31-Day Devotions

• 31-Day Marriage Devotion
• 31-Day Parenting Devotion
• 31-Day Young Adult Devotion

Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, “Let me take the speck out of your eye,” when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye 
(Matthew 7:3-5).

The Importance of Perspective

How you think about others shapes the quality of the care you will provide. Jesus used the analogy of the log and speck in our eyes to highlight the importance of humility in relationships. Before helping someone with whatever their struggle may be, you must address your sin adequately.

This worldview isn’t just a metaphor; it’s a heart check. Discipleship flows best from a place of humility, where you see yourself as a fellow traveler on the path to becoming like Christ, not as someone who has arrived, and you’re waiting for others to get to where you are.

Diagnostic Questions for Soul Care

Perhaps these questions will help you to assess your readiness for discipleship:

1. Do you consider yourself better than the person who needs your input? If so, pride may be clouding your ability to offer genuine care, and you must descend from your lofty perch so you might serve them.
2. Does your care for family members or friends feel like looking down on them? If your tone or attitude comes across as condescending, it can hurt the relationship and your witness.
3. Are you impatient with those who have yet to arrive where you are spiritually? Remember that growth takes time, and everyone’s journey is different. Patience and grace are essential.

The person who views themself as a servant of all is best positioned to help others grow. Jesus modeled this servant-heartedness perfectly, and we are called to follow His example (Mark 10:45). The practical question that I am asking you is, “Who is the biggest sinner in the room?” If you do not see yourself as the foremost sinner—like the great apostle—I recommend you work on your heart first before you address others (1 Timothy 1:15-16).

Time to Reflect

1. Are you more controlled by God’s call to disciple others or by people’s actions toward you? If people’s failures frustrate you, refocus on God’s call to serve them.
2. What specific way do you need to change regarding the “log and speck” paradigm? Identify an area where pride might be hindering your ability to care for others well.

Practical Steps

1. Spend time in prayer, asking God to reveal any logs in your life that need attention.
2. Practice humility by reminding yourself that you, too, are in need of grace daily.
3. When discipling others, focus on encouragement and truth rather than criticism or judgment.
4. Discipleship is a beautiful but challenging calling. It requires humility, patience, and a servant’s heart. As you grow in these qualities, you’ll be better equipped to walk alongside others in their journey toward Christ.

Let’s live boldly, humbly aligning our hearts with God’s call to love and disciple well.

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Rick Thomas

Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.

In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).