When I was preaching in Florida last month I invited eight guys I’ve mentored to a special dinner. I encouraged them and listened to their prayer requests, and then we prayed for each other. Afterwards I paid the $100 bill for our meal. Then last week a friend handed me a check for $100. I thanked him, and then I asked the Lord what it was for. God said: “That’s your discipleship money.”
Since I started mentoring young men, I’ve always insisted on paying for their coffee or meals when we meet. And the Lord has always supplied the funds needed—because He blesses discipleship! Paul told the Corinthians: “I will most gladly spend and be expended for your souls” (2 Cor. 12:15). Discipleship will require lots of time, energy, love and money—but you cannot put a price tag on the reward of seeing your disciples growing spiritually!