|
|
|
Date: 2010-06-22 15:45:36
Title: Great Moments
Great Moments
Being a big sports fan, I’m always interested in those shows that highlight great moments. Whether it’s baseball, football, basketball….or even soccer, I enjoy seeing the moments that define the game. Well, what about great moments in discipleship? Have you ever experienced a time or situation that defined a discipling relationship? If so, submit your experiences by responding to this post and share your story with the world.
I had a great moment when I discipled a young man in my home town. I recall the story often because, for me, it typified the role of a discipler and the responsibility we have to spur those we disciple to take steps of faith that they sometimes seem reluctant to take.
We were concluding lesson five on specificity in prayer when I asked what we could be praying for, specifically, that only God could accomplish. While contemplating, I recalled that his wife, who was 8 months pregnant, was testing very low for fluid in her womb—a cause for concern. Her fluid levels came in between 5.0 to 5.5. Normal fluid levels are 8.
In faith, I stated that we should pray that her fluid levels be at 8.0 for the next ultra-sound. I still recall the look on his face. He agreed, but not enthusiastically, so I lingered. I asked if he thought God could increase her fluid levels, and he nodded the typical halfhearted nod you give when someone asks if you wouldn’t mind filling in for them in the nursery during church service because they’re going to the beach for the weekend. Sure….I’d love to.
I took the halfhearted nod as agreement and we prayed that his wife’s fluids would be an 8.0 the next day. Then we went about our business.
I received a text message at 11:30 a.m. the next day. It read, “Fluids are still low, but God is still good and holy.” To be honest, I was disappointed. I was glad, however, that he had a kingdom-perspective that allowed him to say, even though God chose not to increase her fluid levels, He was still a good and holy God. I read that text and wondered if his faith would be challenged. The next text came a few minutes later. It read, “Wait, they did a second look. Praise God, fluids are an 8.8….Yeah!” Oh, me of little faith.
Because I was traveling, I wasn’t able to speak directly with him until a couple of days later. When I did, I asked what happened and why they did a second ultra-sound. Here’s what he told me: The first ultra-sound was typical and registered a 5.5. The nurse had a quizzical look on her face and blurted out that she wanted to do another test—something she had never done in the two months that they were on twice-weekly visits. When the second ultra-sound was administered, the baby shifted and released a sac of fluid that brought the level to an 8.8. That’s it. No fireworks. No bright flashing light or loud thunder; just the hand of God at work in the womb of a yet-to-be-born baby, or, as I like to call it: A Great Moment in Discipleship!
[Post Comment]
|
|
|
|
|
