How to Make Disciples That Make DisciplesSample

Day 4: Paying Attention

Devotional

Have you ever walked away from a conversation and realised you weren’t really present?

Maybe you nodded and smiled, but your mind was elsewhere. Maybe you were already forming your reply before the other person had even finished speaking. We all do it. But this kind of discipleship requires our full attention.

Jesus really listened. He heard the words people said. But he also discerned the heart beneath those words. And he listened to the voice of the Father while he did it.

This is called ‘triple listening’. You listen for what they are saying. You listen for what they are really saying. And you listen for what the Holy Spirit is saying. This is the kind of listening discipleship needs.

When someone shares something vulnerable, and we truly listen, they feel seen. That space becomes sacred. You don’t need a degree in theology to disciple someone - you just need to give them your attention. To listen. To notice. To ask.

Jesus noticed Zacchaeus in a tree, the bleeding woman in a crowd, the look on Peter’s face after the rooster crowed. The discipling relationship is most powerful when you start to slow down and really see the person in front of you.

Good discipling relationships are shaped by trust, which is built through good listening. Pay attention - not just to the words, but to tone, emotion, body language, and to what the Holy Spirit might be nudging you to notice.

Today, consider how you listen. Bring to mind a conversation you had with someone recently. How well did you listen? Did the person have your full attention? Or were you rushing, distracted, or checking your phone mid-conversation? Ask the Spirit to help you grow in attentiveness.

Reflection Questions

• When was the last time you felt truly listened to? What made that moment powerful?
• How well do you listen in conversations?
• What distracts you from being present with others?
• What would it take to grow in attentiveness?

Prayer for them

Jesus, give [name] the confidence to share honestly. Help them feel safe and truly heard in the space we create together. Amen.

Prayer for me

Lord, train my ears to listen deeply. Help me hear their heart and pay attention to the whispers of Your Spirit. I want to be fully present, just like You are with me. Amen.