SOUL FOOD DEVOTIONAL *THE FRUIT OF CONFIDENCE IN GOD 4* *GAIN CONFIDENCE THROUGH DISCIPLESHIP* Matt 11:28-30 28 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." NIV A true follower of Jesus Christ must be a disciple in the true sense of the word. A disciple is a student who is committed to learning from his master by listening to him and observing his examples on how to live, and go on to apply what is learnt. We are all called and taught to learn from Jesus Christ and follow in His steps. 1 Peter 2:21 21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. NIV A true disciple who is committed to learning from Jesus and following in His steps will definitely have great insights and unshakeable confidence in Jesus Christ. The more you study Him, the more you know and understand Him. The more you know and understand Him, the stronger your convictions that He will never disappoint or abandon you, break, forget or violate His covenant with you. The more you study Him, the stronger your faith in His words, principles, teachings, instructions and promises. To develop confidence that will guarantee victory in every area of life, one needs to give himself to studying, listening to and meditating on the word of God. This will lead to the renewing of the mind as the revelations brings new convictions and makes one see life God’s way. Revelation will change your perception of yourself, God, people, challenges and life generally. It is the renewal of the mind that leads to the transformation of a man’s life. It is the renewal of the mind that energizes a man to work in victory in Christ. It is the renewal of the mind that helps us to manifest the life of Christ in the spirit of the believer. Rom 12:2 2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will. NIV I pray that you will submit yourself to Jesus and become a faithful and diligent student of His all the days of your life; and that through studying Him, you will gain enough insight that will make you strong in confidence in Him in Jesus name. Apostle Sylvester Onyemalechi www.jfoutreach.com