Blog

How to Respond When a Disciple Pulls Away

Your disciples will go through hard times. They will face tests, trials and temptations. They will have freak-out moments. They may even pull away from you because they are discouraged. How do you respond to them in tough times?

**GIVE THEM SPACE. You aren’t God, and you can’t fix their problems. Don’t hover or smother. Step back, knowing that the Holy Spirit will step in.

** STAY CALM. Don’t overreact, scold or get upset because of their problems. Gently remind them you are available to chat.

** PRAY FOR THEM. Jesus knew His disciples would scatter after He went to the cross. He prayed: “Holy Father, keep them in Your name” (17:11). Pray protective prayers. Engage the enemy and fight for them!

** SHARE A WORD. Isaiah 50:4 says: “The Lord God has given me the tongue of disciples, that I may know how to sustain the weary one with a word.” One word from God can break heaviness. Let God use you to bring hope and comfort.