I have been writing this column since February 2021, experienced my husband passing five years ago in January and last month I turned seventy-one. These anniversaries have me thinking, retrospectively, about my Christian life since making Jesus my Lord and Savior in 2017 and my ongoing journey walking in His footsteps.
Discipleship is defined as the process of learning from and following Jesus Christ to become more like Him. It is a spiritual growth that involves putting Jesus first and living according to His teachings.
The phrase “walking in the dust of Jesus” is a metaphor for following Jesus so closely that you literally are “wearing” the dust kicked up by His sandals. The concept is to remain close to the rabbi’s influence.
For me, discipleship is essential, not optional. James 1:22 says “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” and 1 John 2:6 reminds us “whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.”
How does one do this in 2025? What does it look like to walk as Jesus did? How do I adopt His priorities? Can I live in daily submission to God’s will and authority (Luke 4:32)? Will I glorify Him in everything I do and shine His light everywhere I go? When I look at my calendar and my checkbook, is God first?
A priority is to avoid the overwhelming entanglements of this world. I confess that news and social media do not intrigue me. I try to stay away from gossip and I do not base my confidence or self esteem on what others say or think.
God created me and it is only His approval or opinion I need. As a Christian, I have imputed righteousness. This means I am considered righteous through faith in Jesus Christ. I am not claiming to be God.
I am holy, which merely means set apart, different. This helps me to live in “shalom,” a peace and wholeness from within (Philippians 4:7). It is a fullness and joy that comes from knowing God is present (Psalm 16:11).
When I abide in Him and He abides in me that joy is full (John 15:10-11). I aspire to examine the life of Jesus, diligently emulate Him and model His ministry; His attitude, His affections, His actions. I pursue listening and learning from pastors, mentors in my life and others that have a faithful relationship with God.
I dedicate time in His Word, attend classes, serve with fellow Christians and speak of Him to unbelievers. Time alone with Him is vitally important (Matthew 6:6).
Although not easy, I simply have to be obedient and say “Yes” to God, follow His will and not let my own dreams and goals lead the way. He knows best for me and His plans far exceed anything I can imagine (Jeremiah 29:11).
Are you encouraged to walk in the footsteps of Jesus Christ? Please email me… fr*********@gm***.com. I close, in the fruit of the spirit given to all believers: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness & self control (Galatians 5:22-23).
