What does a disciple of Jesus look like from a spiritual perspective? Another way to ask this question: what kind of character do we pray the Holy Spirit will impart to others as we make disciples?

Here is one answer. In Luke 4, Jesus quotes Isaiah 6:1-2 as he describes his own purpose and ministry. If you continue to read Isaiah 61, you find a description of what the Lord bestows on those who the Lord heals in verse three.

1) a crown of beauty...instead of ashes (the reflection of God's very image)
2) the oil of joy...instead of mourning (the joy of the Holy Spirit)
3) a garment of praise...instead of a spirit of despair (overflowing praise to God)

As you pray this week for the people you disciple as well as the people in your church, your community, and your family, pray that the Lord would bestow these gifts and blessings in their lives that "they will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor (vs. 3)."

Always praying for you,
Brian