There is an unseen spiritual battle for your life. Our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the spiritual forces of evil.

You and I are engaged in a battle.

You don’t have to look hard to see the forces of evil at work in our world today.

Remember what Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:12? “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

For many of our Global Disciples partners, working where the light and power of Jesus Christ are not known, the battle is often intense.

In a recent training in Central India, we see a glimpse into the battle. Even before the event, Philip, our South Asia director, said that whenever he prayed for the training, he experienced a great heaviness in his head. One morning as he stood to speak, he said it was like an arrow hitting him, a sudden severe headache.

Another leader felt his tongue so tight as he began to teach, he could not speak properly, or concentrate. It took 15 minutes before he felt the words coming out right. Even the translator struggled to the point of collapse.

During a prayer walk in the community, several participants were nearly in accidents; others were within the blast of an explosion but unharmed. And the two leaders described feeling unable to walk; their legs were so heavy and hard to move.

These participants represent several strategic areas with the potential to reach significant people groups who have yet to hear the Gospel of Jesus.

The Holy Spirit was touching lives and drawing them into a deeper commitment and intimacy with God. Something the enemy doesn’t want – and he works overtime to stop and derail God’s work in his territory.

So how do we face this battle?

In Ephesians 6, Paul urges us to stand firm. “Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” The battle rages on…but we have the victory.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Sometimes the path to faith in Jesus is a hard one. But God is in the business of shaping journeys and changing hearts, as you’ll discover in Husna’s story.

When Husna came to a Global Disciples‘ discipleship-mission training in North India, she had a story to tell. Her path to faith in Jesus Christ was not an easy one.

Husna grew up in a Sikh family, zealous for her faith, and devoted to one of the leading gurus in her religion. Then her grandfather, also a Sikh, became very sick, and every doctor they went to see said he wouldn’t survive.

However, a follower of Jesus met Husna’s family and shared about Jesus and His love for them. The Lord touched Husna’s grandmother first; she went to church and placed her faith in Jesus as Savior. Soon, the rest of the family also put their faith in Christ.

All except Husna. She stubbornly refused, going her own way, clinging to Sikhism. Then she too became sick and nothing helped.

Her family prayed for her and shared the Gospel, the pastor visited too, but she still resisted. Only when she was healed did she reluctantly go along to church.

But her change of heart didn’t last long. Husna went back to her old ways even though they didn’t bring her peace or happiness.

Several times she tried to commit suicide. Once she jumped into a deep canal, but some people passing by pulled her out. Another time, she took poison but her family found her, called the pastor, and prayed for her. And God saved her life. This time she gave her life fully to Jesus, and committed to serving Him.

When Husna had the opportunity to take the discipleship-mission training, she leaped at the chance! Through it, God worked in her once rebellious heart, and her commitment deepened. Husna said, “In this training, God has blessed me, made me strong in my faith, and called me to serve Him to the end of my life.”

And God is keeping His Word to Husna. She has married another Christ-follower, and now they serve as church planters among many unreached people in North India.

Praise God for His wonderful work in Husna’s life and the many who were part of her faith journey.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Have you ever heard the phrase “beauty for ashes”? It comes from a special book many people read called the Bible. In the Bible, there’s a part that goes, “to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes.” This might sound a bit confusing, but it’s actually a comforting message. It reminds us that good things can come from bad situations.

At Global Disciples Canada, we see this idea in action all the time. We work with leaders who believe in Jesus and help them learn how to share love and good news with others. In fact, even in places where not many people know about Jesus. These leaders learn how to turn tough situations into hopeful ones by sharing their faith.

We think this message is really important because it shows us that no situation is too hard to handle when you have help and hope. That’s what we try to teach and share all over the world. So, this article is going to talk about how we can see “beauty for ashes” in everyday life and in helping others, just like we do in our work here at Global Disciples Canada.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to reach least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One third of our world hasn’t heard the Good Start your journey today to help us spread hope and transform lives!

In the Bible, Isaiah 61:3 is a powerful verse that talks about giving us “beauty for ashes.” This means that even when things look really bad and hopeless, like a pile of ashes, God can change it into something beautiful. It’s like when a flower grows from a patch of dirt—it shows how something beautiful can come out of something not so nice. This message helps people feel hope and trust that good things can happen, no matter how tough things get.

This verse is especially meaningful for us because it reminds us that everyone has hard times. But with faith and hope as our tools, we can help make things better. We use this idea a lot in our work, teaching leaders how to bring hope and joy to places where people might not have heard much about it before.

Isaiah 61 is an important part of the Bible because it promises good things to people who are struggling and feeling broken. This chapter tells about wonderful things that will happen to help those who are sad or having a hard time. For example, it talks about fixing broken hearts and giving freedom to those who feel stuck or trapped. It’s like telling someone who is sad that there will be happier days coming—that’s a very powerful message.

For us, this chapter is a guide that helps us understand how important it is to bring hope to others. It teaches us that part of our job is to help lift people up when they are down. We think of ourselves as helpers who bring the good news that the Bible talks about in Isaiah 61 to people all over the world, especially those who might not have much hope right now.

These teachings are central to what we do every day. We believe that by sharing these messages, we’re not just talking about religion—we’re helping to make others’ lives better, kind of like how a teacher helps students learn new things that will help them in life.

In our work, we constantly explore ways to bring to life the promise of turning “ashes into beauty.” We do this by reaching out to communities that are often overlooked, bringing them hope and new opportunities. Here’s how we apply this powerful message in practical terms.

Firstly, we organize community events that focus on healing and reconciliation. These events are opportunities for people to come together, share their stories, and support each other. It’s like creating a beautiful tapestry from different strands of experiences—each unique, but all contributing to a larger, more beautiful picture.

Secondly, we offer training sessions that not only teach about the Bible but also equip individuals with skills they can use to improve their lives and their communities. By doing this, we help turn the “ashes” of poverty and despair into the “beauty” of prosperity and hope.

At Global Disciples, we are inspired by the promise of “beauty for ashes” to push beyond traditional boundaries of mission work. We believe that every act of kindness, no matter how small, can lead to big changes. We use this verse to motivate and encourage our teams and the local leaders we train. And, we remind them that their efforts can bring light to the darkest places.

Our approach involves close collaboration with local churches and community leaders to understand their unique challenges and needs. This partnership helps us tailor our programs effectively, ensuring that we’re not just visiting a community, but becoming a part of their journey toward transformation.

Furthermore, we share the story of “beauty for ashes” in all our communications, from training materials to public speeches. We want everyone involved—volunteers, staff members, and supporters—to know that they are part of something transformative, turning grim situations into opportunities for growth and joy.

In every corner of the globe, there are stories of pain and loss that seem overwhelming. But amidst these challenges, there are also incredible stories of renewal and hope. Through Global Disciples, we strive to embody the message of Isaiah 61:3, helping individuals and communities experience the profound transformation from “ashes” to “beauty.” Our mission work is not just about spreading faith; it’s about catalyzing change and lifting others into a new life filled with possibility and purpose. Let us help you turn to Bible verses to keep going in life!

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to reach least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet, Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

For many of us, it’s hard to imagine a life without ever knowing or hearing about Jesus Christ. Yet it’s the daily reality for many people around the world.

A Third of our world has yet to hear about Jesus but it doesn’t have to stay that way.

“Who is this Jesus who loves me?” the woman asked, tears running down her face.

For the first time in her life, she had heard the name of Jesus. And the message that He came, the Son of God, to die for her sins…all because He loved her.

Can you imagine what would your life be like…if you knew nothing about Jesus? To have never heard His name before—on radio, or books or music, or in conversations with people around you.

For many of us, that’s beyond our understanding.

In our North American culture, there are many ways we might hear, see or learn something about who Jesus is, even if we didn’t grow up around Christians or the church or the Bible. But to know nothing of His love for you? The salvation Jesus offers? The hope He gives you for life today and for your eternal future?

Today there are billions of people in our world who are just like this woman. She lives in northern Ethiopia, in a region among people where there is no witness to Christ.

That is until recently when some Ethiopian believers came to her community to share the Good News about Jesus who loves them so much.

The news was life-changing! When she heard it, she was ready and eager to put her faith and hope in her newfound Savior. It spilled over into her family and her community, and while they face much opposition and difficulty, God is doing something new and multiplying His kingdom in this region.

This is why we do what we do as Global Disciples. We train and equip believers in Ethiopia and over 70 other countries, just like the man who shared the Gospel with this woman and her community. And together we seek to help share the Good News of Jesus—of a Savior who loves people enough to sacrifice His own life, and to see their lives transformed for today and for eternity.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

In our continued efforts to serve and uplift communities, we often come across challenges that test our resolve and commitment. The biblical exhortation to “Be not weary in well doing” offers both encouragement and a command that resonates deeply within the heart of every servant. Our labors in the Lord are never in vain, even when the immediate results are not visible. This powerful phrase not only uplifts our spirits but also refocuses our purpose in doing God’s work.

It helps us to navigate through times of doubt and fatigue. It reassures us that perseverance is not just an option, but a vital aspect of our faith expression. We gain insights that not only inspire but also equip us to handle the challenges associated with ministry.

It drives us to keep moving forward, with a renewed spirit and strengthened resolve. To fulfill our mission of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ effectively.

“Be not weary in well doing,” found in Galatians 6:9, unveils a profound call to persistence in our good actions. This directive encourages us not just to do good, but to continue doing good, emphasizing endurance and perseverance. It’s a reminder that the impact of sustained goodness can often be seen only over time. In fact, immediate results should not be the sole measure of our efforts.

We are reminded that weariness can be a natural part of our human experience, but giving up should not be. Instead, we are to focus on the long-term vision. We are fueled by this powerful promise. That in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Realigning our focus to this truth helps keep our spirits uplifted and our efforts focused.

The Bible is rich with examples and teachings that inspire perseverance and dedicated service. Hebrews 12:1 tells us to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us,”. Just as runners focus on the finish line, we are called to keep our eyes on our goal: the spread of the Gospel and the growth of the Kingdom.

Furthermore, the story of Nehemiah rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem amidst great opposition showcases the unyielding perseverance required to accomplish God’s work. Nehemiah faced discouragement, threats, and even attempts to undermine his work, yet he remained committed. His resolve encourages us to stand firm in our missions, fortified by prayer and God’s promises.

These biblical principles reinforce our commitment to persevere in our efforts, knowing that our work is not just for the moment but for eternity. They guide us in serving diligently, reminding us that our labor in the Lord is always fruitful, even when the fruits are not immediately visible. These insights from scripture provide us with the strength to continue our service, motivated by our deep faith in God’s purpose for our lives and for those we serve.

Staying committed in ministry can sometimes be challenging, particularly when the immediate results are not easily noticeable. However, we have found practical approaches that help us maintain and even grow our commitment over time. First and foremost, understanding the bigger picture is essential. When we visualize the impact of our ministry on a global scale, it becomes easier to work through anything particularly taxing or seemingly mundane.

Regular spiritual practices play a critical role in sustaining our motivation and passion for our work. Daily prayers, meditation on the scriptures, and sharing our experiences with fellow believers reinvigorate our spiritual energy and remind us why we chose to embark on this mission. Moreover, regular retreats for spiritual renewal and strategy refinement are integral as they help clear our minds and refine our approaches based on what has been most effective.

Lastly, establishing a support network of peers who understand the unique challenges of ministry work is invaluable. Such groups provide emotional support, share knowledge and best practices, and offer accountability, ensuring we stay true to our mission’s path. By implementing these strategies, we maintain high levels of engagement and enthusiasm for our ministry efforts, ensuring we don’t grow weary in doing good.

The biblical call to “Be not weary in well doing” profoundly shapes our global mission at Global Disciples Canada. This scripture not only guides our strategies but also strengthens our resolve to press on despite challenges, ensuring that the Good News reaches every corner of the earth. It reminds us the importance of resilience and consistency in our efforts, knowing that our labor is not in vain but contributes to a larger divine plan.

In practical terms, this phrase drives us to be innovative in our approaches while being steadfast in our commitment. Whether it’s through our training programs or direct evangelism, we are constantly motivated to give our best effort and to innovate responsibly, ensuring that our resources are used to maximum effect. This scripture challenges us to continuously seek ways to enhance our effectiveness, thereby maximizing our impact among least-reached communities.

Our commitment to “not grow weary” encourages us not only to continue in our existing efforts but to expand them. Reading the scripture for peace of mind is key. With every step, we are inspired to reach further, teach more comprehensively, and love more deeply. It’s a reminder that every action taken in faith and obedience has immense value in the eyes of God that resonates beyond what we can immediately see.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to reach least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet, we refer to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

There is power in the Name of Jesus. Power to free a person from spiritual bondage.

Sometimes we lose sight of just how great and powerful our God is. But this story from northeast India reminds us the Lord has victory over spiritual forces around us.

Madhu directs a discipleship-mission training in a spiritually dark area.

He went with the disciple-makers he was training to a village where he prayed with people and they shared the Gospel of Jesus.

They were told of a family needing help. Omana, the young wife in this family, had been bedridden for five months. Her family had spent lots of money consulting doctors and witch doctors but with no result.

Madhu’s team visited the home and told the family about Jesus. And in the name of Jesus, they prayed for Omana. After prayer, her behavior turned strange. She was rolling on the floor, shouting and vomiting and her family tried to restrain her. At one point, she fled from her bed!

The village went looking for Omana and one man found her trying to hang herself from a tree.

He managed to get her loose and they carried her home. Soon after, she told everyone she was leaving, then she went outside and acted like she was starting a motorcycle—but there was no motorcycle.

Finally, Omana fell to the ground unconscious and the demon left her! Her illness and erratic behavior caused by demonic forces had troubled her since childhood. The demons fought to maintain control, but they were no match for the name of Jesus and God’s power.

After she was freed and healed, Omana along with her husband, daughter, and mother-in-law all accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior and were baptized. By that time, the whole village witnessed the power of God and marveled at Jesus who could set spiritual captives free. Many of them have been slow to repent and put their faith in Christ. “It will take time,” Madhu said, “and our ongoing prayer.”

God is greater than any spiritual or physical power we encounter. And Jesus is the only One who offers true freedom.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Real life discipleship revolves around living out one’s faith in practical, tangible ways, embodying the teachings of Jesus Christ. In fact, it is the practice of integrating faith-based principles into every aspect of life, particularly among least-reached populations.

We’ll delve into the concepts of real life discipleship, examining how biblical teachings can be applied to daily life. We’ll highlight the inspiring work of organizations like Global Disciples Canada, who train local leaders to multiply disciples. Join us as we embark on this journey, discovering the transformative power of genuine Christ-centered living.

Real life discipleship begins with a commitment to continuous spiritual growth, seeking a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. Here are some practices to nurture spiritual growth in everyday life:

Real life discipleship also involves intentionally sharing God’s love and message of redemption through our daily actions and interactions. Read on for some practical ways to demonstrate Christ’s love include:

Did you know that making real life discipleship to the next level involves extending beyond our immediate circles? It means reaching out to least-reached communities that have limited exposure to the gospel message. This outreach can be pursued through:

Real life discipleship is not without its challenges, and believers must be prepared to navigate these trials with faith, perseverance, and commitment. Some common challenges and recommended strategies include:

Embarking on real life discipleship requires intentionality, commitment, and faith. By actively seeking spiritual growth, demonstrating Christ’s love through daily actions, reaching out to least-reached communities, and overcoming challenges, believers can truly live out their faith in a transformative manner. The impact of genuine discipleship has the potential to change lives and communities beyond our immediate surroundings, extending the Good News of Jesus Christ to those who have not yet had the opportunity to hear it.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to reach least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet, Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Worship is more than an act; it’s a deep, resonant connection with the divine, fostered through heartfelt expressions and scriptural foundations. The Bible, rich with verses that encourage and describe worship, serves as a vital resource for believers seeking to deepen their relationship with God. These worship scriptures guide personal devotion and enhance communal and missional engagements. As Global Disciples Canada continues its mission to train leaders near least-reached communities, the power of scriptural worship becomes increasingly apparent, offering both strength and inspiration. 

This article explores key scriptures that underline the essence of worship, demonstrating their practical and transformative impact on ministry. Join us as we delve into the biblical roots of worship, uncovering how these sacred texts support the spreading of the Good News across the globe.

At the core of biblical worship is the acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty and holiness. Deuteronomy 6:4-5 serves as a cornerstone, urging believers to “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” This call to wholehearted devotion sets the stage for a life of worship, emphasizing that worship begins with a profound respect and love for God, permeating every aspect of one’s life.

The Book of Psalms, often referred to as the hymnbook of the Bible, offers extensive insights into the practice of worship. Psalms like Psalm 95:1-2, “Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song,” exemplify the jubilant, communal celebration of God’s presence and acts. These verses not only encourage vocal and musical praise but emphasize a joyful, communal response to God’s providence and kingship.

Psalms also discuss the more introspective and solemn aspects of worship. Psalm 51, for instance, portrays worship as a repentant and contrite heart before God, where the psalmist David expresses deep remorse for his sins and seeks purification. This indicates that true worship also involves humility, self-reflection, and the desire for personal transformation—a theme that resonates deeply within the training programs of Global Disciples Canada.

In the New Testament, worship extends beyond specific acts into a lifestyle of dedication to God. Romans 12:1 declares, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” This passage revolutionizes worship, presenting it as a daily life lived in accordance with God’s will rather than confined to moments of singing or prayer. Such a perspective is vital for missionaries who often find themselves in challenging environments, indicating that every act of service in the name of Jesus is an act of worship.

Jesus’ interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:23-24) further emphasizes that “true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth.” This passage highlights the importance of an authentic heart in worship, free from geographical or traditional constraints, focused on a genuine, spirit-led relationship with God.

The relationship between worship and mission is pivotal. Acts 16:25 illustrates Paul and Silas praying and singing hymns to God in prison, an act of worship that leads to a miraculous jailbreak and the conversion of the jailer and his family. This incident shows that worship can serve as a powerful testimony of faith, often leading to evangelistic opportunities and impacting those who do not yet know Christ.

Furthermore, worship empowers missionaries by aligning their efforts with God’s power and presence. As they engage in worship, they are reminded of the reasons behind their mission—the love and mercy of God, which they are called to share with all nations. This alignment is crucial in maintaining spiritual vitality and keeping the mission aligned with God’s purpose, especially in contexts that are challenging or resistant to the Gospel.

Global Disciples Canada prioritizes this intertwining of worship and mission in its training programs, allowing leaders to experience and understand the transformative power of worship, not only in their personal lives but also in their ministries.

The scriptures provide a profound foundation for worship as a pivotal element of the Christian faith and missionary work. By integrating worship into every aspect of life, believers stand as beacons of God’s love, spreading His message through a lived expression of faith and obedience. At Global Disciples Canada, we are dedicated to empowering leaders who embody this spirit of worship, equipping them to reach out to the least reached with not only the Gospel but also the compelling testimony of their worship-driven lives.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to reach least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet, Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Have you lost your joy?

Leading others, serving the Body of Christ, seeking the lost is a big mission. Sadly, discouragement affects leaders too. However, a season of renewal can make all the difference.

“My life has taken an important turn,” Simon said. “Before the leadership training, I didn’t know the Lord very well. Today I give thanks to the Lord that my longing to be part of God’s mission is a reality. This is the greatest opportunity God has given me—the most meaningful of my life.”

As a church leader in Mexico, Simon was reflecting on his experience in a leadership development program, launched with the help of Global Disciples.

In parts of the world—Mexico included—many pastors and church leaders may have limited training or few opportunities to further their leadership skills. Consequently, this is a serious problem.

Global Disciples provide training for local church leaders. Did you know we partner with the local church? In fact, it’s how we build up the Body of Christ, even as we seek to encourage its multiplication among least-reached people.

Pablo is the director of this leadership training program in Mexico and passed along testimonies from the participants. Hector was in attendance and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, for the life change he experienced, and what it meant for his ministry in these days and the days to come.

“ A year ago, my spiritual life was in ruins” Hector said.

“The joy of serving the Lord was over. At that time, I was led to be involved in this training. Today I am leading the mission effort in my area, and I have recovered my love for lost souls.

Serving the Lord is a joyful experience. In fact, I feel fulfilled serving Him, searching for the unbeliever, and restoring broken people. Subsequently, Global Disciples has been used to restore my love for the Lord.”

Can you imagine? What a privilege we have to equip leaders like Hector and Simon, who are growing into passionate,Christ-like leaders. Don’t you agree that the church and the Body of Christ need these kind of people all over the world?

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. In fact, we live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

In a world rife with uncertainties and challenges, it’s easy to succumb to the spirit of fear. 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us that “God did not give us a spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” This empowering verse isn’t just a comforting thought; it’s a transformative call to action. 

In this article, we will explore the depths of this scripture. We’ll dissect how it applies not only to personal spiritual growth but also in the context of mission work.

We’ll discover how embracing these attributes can propel us to effectively share the Good News of Jesus Christ. Join us as we learn to replace fear with faith, enabling us to fulfill our God-given missions courageously.

The promise found in 2 Timothy 1:7 begins with the affirmation that God gives us a “spirit of power.” This power transcends human strength; it’s a divine enablement that comes directly from God through the Holy Spirit. In missions and evangelism, this power is crucial. It goes beyond mere capacity to endure. In fact, it includes the ability to effect change, perform God-given tasks, and witness boldly in the face of adversity. For missionaries engaging with least-reached communities, this spiritual fortitude is essential. They often face logistical challenges, spiritual opposition, cultural barriers, and political complexities. Embracing this spirit of power enables these leaders to establish footholds for the gospel in hostile settings.

Coupled with power is the “spirit of love.” This type of love—agape love—is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional, reflecting the character of Christ. In missionary work, this love is the driving force behind every action taken. It motivates missionaries to cross borders, learn new languages, and adapt to foreign cultures. It’s what compels them to serve the needs of others before their own. It fosters genuine relationships that bridge the gap between different worldviews. This love is crucial in overcoming fear because it focuses on the well-being and salvation of those being served. Practising this love daily within missions transforms those on the receiving end and those who give too. It aligns them closer to the heart of God and fulfilling the greatest commandments outlined in Mark 12:30-31.

“Sound mind,” often interpreted as self-discipline or self-control, rounds out the trio of virtues gifted by God. This element is key to managing one’s own emotions, thoughts, and actions effectively. For frontline evangelists and discipleship trainers, possessing a sound mind helps in developing strategic, thoughtful plans that are attuned to the unique challenges and opportunities of their contexts. It aids them in discerning the best methods for communicating the gospel in culturally sensitive and impactful ways. This disciplined approach ensures careful stewardship of resources and maintains focus on long-term kingdom goals rather than immediate but fleeting successes. The spirit of self-discipline is especially vital in overcoming fear, as it helps workers maintain composure and perseverance through setbacks and opposition.

Creating and nurturing a culture that routinely rejects fear and embraces faith is vital for sustaining progress in ministry and missions. This environment encourages openness, where team members feel secure in sharing their concerns and victories. By fostering regular discussions on spiritual and emotional well-being, organizations can ensure that their members are spiritually healthy and mission-ready. Training sessions that focus on developing these three key elements—power, love, and self-discipline—equip missionaries not just with practical skills but also with spiritual resilience. Leaders who embody these virtues inspire their teams and those they serve, creating a multiplying effect that enhances their impact within the communities.

This fearless approach to ministry mirrors the early church as described in the Acts of the Apostles, where the Holy Spirit empowered believers to speak boldly and perform wonders among the people despite persecution and threats. In modern contexts, while challenges may look different, the principle remains the same. Equip yourself with divine power, serve with Christ-like love, and operate with godly discipline to effectively confront and conquer fear.

In today’s digital age, harnessing online tools and resources can also play a pivotal role in overcoming fear and fostering a robust spiritual environment. Websites, podcasts, and social media platforms offer vast opportunities for learning, encouragement, and connection that are readily accessible. They provide platforms for sharing testimonies and educational material that can strengthen faith and dispel fears. Missionaries and believers can take advantage of these tools to stay connected with supportive communities, gain insights from global ministry leaders, and access Biblical teaching that fortifies them against fear-focused narratives. By integrating these digital resources into daily routines, individuals and ministries can maintain a continuous flow of spiritual nourishment that reinforces the bold, love-driven, disciplined approach to life and ministry.

Embracing the spirit of power, love, and self-discipline emboldens us to confront our fears head-on, leaning into God’s promises and His immutable strength. As we apply these principles, both in personal life and in ministry, we also pave the way for others to discover the transformative power of the gospel. Global Disciples Canada remains dedicated to mentoring and equipping leaders who embody these characteristics, enabling them to reach out confidently to the least-reached communities with the compelling message of Jesus Christ.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to reach least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet, Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!