A Growth Mindset for Disciple Makers

rwh10may Ep.363 – Run With Horses Podcast – rwh10may Ep.363 – Run With Horses Podcast – A Growth Mindset for Disciple Makers
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Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

1. The Growth Mindset in a Christian Context
1. Welcomes challenges as opportunities for sanctification (James 1:2–4 NKJV).
2. Perseveres under trial, knowing endurance produces spiritual maturity (Romans 5:3–5 NKJV).
3. Seeks feedback and correction, recognizing rebuke refines faith (Proverbs 27:17 NKJV; Proverbs 12:1 NKJV).
4. Celebrates others’ growth, rejoicing when fellow believers flourish (Romans 12:15 NKJV).
2. Discipleship and the Great Commission
A growth mindset fuels the “teaching” phase: we believe learners can grow in knowledge, obedience, and Christ-likeness. It also shapes our own approach, as we accept that our skills in evangelism, teaching, and mentoring improve through practice, prayer, and reliance on God.
3. Spiritual Growth is a Process
Scripture depicts growth as a journey.
4. The “One Another’s” and Growth Mindset
5. Practical Implications for Disciple Makers
1. Model a growth mindset by sharing your own struggles and progress in Bible study, prayer, or ministry skills.
2. Set incremental goals for disciples (e.g., memorizing Scripture, leading a small group), celebrating small wins to build confidence (Zechariah 4:10 NKJV).
3. Cultivate “one another” rhythms in your church—regular accountability groups, prayer partnerships, and service teams.
4. Teach the biblical process of growth—explain that sanctification involves trials, correction, and perseverance, rooted in passages like James 1:2–4 (NKJV) and Hebrews 12:11 (NKJV).
5. Encourage reflection—have disciples journal progress, confess weaknesses, and plan next steps, reinforcing that effort and dependence on Christ yield transformation.
1. Confess Fixed-Mindset Thinking and Renew Your Mind
“I can’t change,” “I can’t do that.” and the like are big hinderances to spiritual growth. Lies need to be brought into the light and exchanged for truth. The question should be, “What is God doing? What does HE want me to do?” God empowers His people for His work.
2. Meditate on God’s Word Daily
A growth mindset flourishes when immersed in truth. Scripture both reveals God’s power to change us and gives the roadmap.
3. Pray for Wisdom and Perseverance
Growth requires divine enablement—both insight and the grit to keep going.
4. Engage in Christian Community
Even if attendance has been spotty, intentional fellowship is vital for encouragement, accountability, and skill development.
5. Set Small, Measurable Goals for Spiritual Disciplines
Growth rarely happens overnight. Incremental victories build confidence that God can grow you further.
6. Welcome Correction and Feedback
A growth mindset leans into rebuke, knowing it produces maturity.
7. Practice Gratitude and Celebrate Others’ Growth
Focusing on progress—both yours and others’—reinforces a mindset that abilities can expand.
8. Rely on God’s Strength in Weakness
A growth mindset isn’t self-reliance; it’s dependence on Christ, who is at work in us.

Doctrine Today
God’s Sovereignty
God’s sovereignty means that God reigns over all things with perfect wisdom, power, and love, and nothing in our lives is outside His control.

– “Thank you for listening today!
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