Marks of a Disciple 14: Focus Questions

This questionnaire is designed for you to self-assess behaviors that show at what level you are taking actions, making choices, and attaining knowledge that characterizes a disciple of Christ.

Ask yourself these questions and gain clarity regarding your path of growth in focus.

This is not a test! There is no grade! There is no one to compare yourself to!

Take note of the questions that you might answer Never/Unlikely/or Unaware. Pray through them and identify areas where God might ask you to focus and grow next year. In the same way, note your answers of Often/Very Likely/or Very Aware and thank God for the opportunities He has given you to grow in those areas. Posts for the next five days will cover each of the marks of a disciple. You may want to refer to previous posts for more information about each mark.

FOCUS is a characteristic that can be measured by the extent of the disciple’s diligence toward God and participation in the following spiritual disciplines.

Diligence toward God: 2 Peter 1:5, “Apply all diligence.”

1. If a standard for growing in Christ is diligence, how often do you review your Christian progress? Never/Sometimes/Often
2. How likely is it that you would follow a written plan for your life, which includes specific goals? Unlikely/Likely/Very Likely
3. How aware are you of obstacles that can prevent you from reaching your goals as a disciple? Unaware/Aware/Very Aware
4. Which word best describes how you feel when you are focused on Christ’s goals for your life? Surrendered/Persistent/Wise/Loving/Powerful

Discipline: 1 Corinthians 9:27, “I discipline my body.”

1. How often do you focus on devotional goals? Never/Sometimes/Often
2. How often do you focus on service goals? Never/Sometimes/Often
3. How often do you focus on community and witnessing goals? Never/Sometimes/Often
4. How often do you focus on Bible study goals? Never/Sometimes/Often
5. Which word best describes how you feel when you focus on your growth as a disciple? Surrendered/Persistent/Wise/Loving/Powerful

Identify one action that could support your growth. After completing the questions for each of the five marks, prioritize each action and choose one to commit to for next year.

Dearest God, I admit that diligence and discipline are hard to carry out, but I trust You to continue to place them in my heart. I want my focus to be on You through all the ways that will keep me listening to Your voice and Your heart. Amen.