While growing as a Jesus-follower requires many contexts (church setting, community groups, accountability partner, partners in ministry, etc.), there is a necessary individual component. In times alone with the Lord, you must work to equip yourself as the Lord uses your activities to grow you into someone much more useful to Him.

Here are some places to get started:

growing in your Knowledge and application of God's Word

YouVersion (click link)

The YouVersion Bible app gives you access to a wealth of Bible translations (some of which can read the text to you). It is also loaded with an enormous amount of Bible reading plans, devotionals, and more. It's also free.

E-Sword (click link)

E-Sword is a free program (you may donate to E-Sword if you desire) that you can download to your computer or mobile device. It has an enormous amount of commentaries, dictionaries, and more to help you dig into God's Word as you grow in your knowledge and application of what God has revealed to us.

Growing in your Ability to Share the Gospel

Way of the Master (click link)

Learning how to share the wonderful news of the Gospel is something every Christian should do, and yet most don't. The truth is that if you have been saved, you know enough to tell others how they can be saved. But Ray Comfort and his ministry, Way of the Master, have done a wonderful job of filming hundreds of Gospel presentations and posting them on YouTube. So, watch and learn from the videos. As you do, you may find it gives you a presentation plan and the courage to share Jesus with others.

Cultivating a Christian Worldview

The Briefing (Al Mohler) (click link)

Dr. Albert Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, posts a 28-minute reflection each weekday morning. In it, he seeks to help Christians think through contemporary issues from a biblical worldview. I (Pastor Matt) have made it a habit to listen to each one every weekday morning for well over 5 years. But, rather than go to the website, I have a podcast app on my phone that downloads his podcast each morning.

Working Toward a Healthier and more fruitful Church

Revitalize and Replant (click link)

I (Pastor Matt) have been listening to NAMB's "Revitalize and Replant" podcast for a couple of years. It is produced by Southern Baptists who focus almost solely on churches running 200 or fewer. It currently drops two podcasts each week that are a wealth of information and wisdom, seasoned generously with humor. If you want to listen to who Pastor Matt is listening to, listen online or download a podcast app, search for "Revitalize and Replant," and enjoy.