During September we’re focusing on learning to disciple. Please see the Monthly Prayer Focus page to read our strategic prayer request for this month.

By Lindy Pate

During the Pacific Orientation Course I read an article by Wayne Dye. He talked about the importance of having Scripture application moments in day to day life. Basically, in your interactions with people in the village are you demonstrating how the content of the Bible can change their lives? Colossians 4:5-6 (NLT) describes it this way. “Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”

Wayne Dye goes on to challenge missionaries to dig into the Bible. He suggests that if we are not being transformed, well, what do we have to give? I took his question seriously and found myself wanting. A Bible translator…starting her first term…and I knew that my conversations weren’t salty. I asked God to change that.

I’ve met people that try to manufacture salty conversations. Though savory, it is forced and sometimes has bad side effects. This is akin to the containers of MSG that can be found in supermarkets in Papua New Guinea. It isn’t real salt. Don’t substitute knowledge and effort for God-initiated transformation.

So what do we do when we find that our conversations aren’t God focused, gracious, and attractive, and we are lacking those substances inside? We pray and we wait and we read and study the Word. Recently, I’ve noticed a change in my interactions. I end up talking about Jesus, but not with self-manufactured intention. It just comes up. And the Scripture I’ve read and digested over the past year has application to people’s lives.

I will share a few grains from the sprinkling of salt I’ve seen recently. Nehemiah speaks to a team in the final stages of translation, being attacked by the enemy on all sides. Hold a weapon in one hand and a tool in the other. Proverbs 23:29-35 describes the conflict and wounds that come with drunkenness. Haman’s story speaks to people seeking their own gain using whatever means necessary.

Is your life marked by active discipleship?

Lindy Pate serves as a Bible translator.