Branching Out in Faith
Everyone needs to branch out.
As a term connected to trees, it points to growth. Growth always leads to new branches. At some point, we all have to step into the unknown. Sometimes it’s exciting. Other times, it’s terrifying.
Leaders Encourage Branching Out
As leaders, we love investing in people. We enjoy mentorship and discipleship. We get to watch growth unfold in real time. And then comes the moment when the right decisions start happening; not because of convincing, but because of conviction.
That’s when the time and energy invested really pays off.
What Does Branching Out Look Like?
Branching out in faith can take many forms:
- Someone receiving the Gospel and accepting Christ.
- Someone sharing a testimony of God’s work in their life.
- Someone choosing baptism or church membership.
- Someone stepping into leadership in the church.
Each step is a public declaration of following Jesus. Each one takes courage.
Facing the Challenges of Growth
Once those steps are taken, challenges come. Faith gets tested. Convictions must run deep to overcome fear and anxiety. A mentor can walk alongside. A leader can encourage. But no one can take those steps for someone else. Growth is personal.
Jesus gave His disciples this moment:
“When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick… So they set out and went from village to village, proclaiming the good news and healing people everywhere.” (Luke 9:1–6)
There came a point when Jesus let His disciples step out on their own. He equipped them. He prepared them. And then He sent them.
That’s real leadership and mentorship. That’s what it means to branch out.
Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts
- Who are you mentoring right now, and how have you seen them branch out in faith?
- How have you experienced growth lately?
- Do you sense God calling you to branch out in a new way?
