Bravery, Service, and the Lifelong Work of Discipleship

Hey Rogue Disciples!

It's a season of transitions, isn't it? School’s back in session, and for many, that brings a fresh wave of excitement—and maybe a little anxiety. I remember those early return transfers, feeling the weight of the work ahead, wondering how I could possibly make a difference. It's a feeling that doesn't disappear, even as we gain experience. But I've learned something profound: true confidence doesn’t come from how you look or what’s trending; it comes from serving others.

I was listening to the latest episode of This Is Kingdom—seriously, listen to the full episode—and they hit on something so vital. They’re shifting their focus to studying For the Strength of Youth with a lifelong perspective, recognizing that discipleship isn't a phase we graduate from. It’s a continuous journey.

Talon shared the story of Gideon in Judges, and it really resonated. When we feel overwhelmed by the challenges around us, especially when it comes to the work of gathering Israel, it's easy to feel powerless. But the Lord’s response to Gideon – “Have not I sent thee?” – is a powerful reminder. It's not about feeling qualified; it’s about recognizing that we are instruments in His hands, sent to serve.

The Confidence of Service

The episode highlighted a simple but profound truth: if you want to feel confident, don't focus on yourself. Focus on serving someone else. Find someone who’s lost, someone who’s alone, someone who needs a friend. That’s where real confidence is built—in the act of lifting others.

Think about your own missionary experiences. Wasn't it often in those moments of genuine service – sharing a gospel principle with a teaching companion, helping a less-active member, simply offering a kind word—that you felt the Spirit most powerfully?

Embracing Bravery in Everyday Life

Another piece of advice from the episode really struck me: “Do one brave thing every day.” It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. It could be as simple as striking up a conversation with someone new, sitting somewhere outside your comfort zone, or even, as one of the hosts joked, “trying out for the school play.” (A metaphor, of course, for stepping into a role you might feel unprepared for.)

That resonates so deeply with the spirit of Rogue Discipleship. We’re not about hiding in the shadows; we're about actively engaging with the world, sharing the gospel online, and being Christlike in every interaction. That requires bravery—the willingness to be vulnerable, to be imperfect, to step outside the safety of our routines.

Beyond the MTC

It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that missionary preparation ends at the MTC, or when we return home. But the principles we learned—the discipline, the humility, the focus on serving others—those are tools we need to use every day. The Spirit isn't a reward for perfectly executing a lesson plan; it’s a constant companion for those who are striving to follow Christ.

This week, I challenge you: identify one brave thing you can do today. And remember, as the Lord told Gideon, He has already sent you. Trust in His guidance, serve with compassion, and watch your confidence—and your testimony—grow.

What brave thing are you planning to do this week? Share in the comments!

And if you’re looking for more opportunities to grow in discipleship, join us for the weekly Disciple Challenge. Davee’s been prepping some great resources to help us tackle tough questions and deepen our understanding of the gospel.

Until next time, keep striving to be Christlike—every member, an internet missionary, a disciple, all the time.