In the journey of discipleship, it is crucial to comprehend the significance of self-awareness and personal formation. Often, we are so engrossed in molding others that we overlook the necessity of shaping our own character first. The foundation of discipleship is rooted in the understanding of our own formation. Our experiences, beliefs, values, and attitudes shape us, and these elements, in turn, influence the way we disciple others.
Pain that is not transformed is transmitted
Ronald Rolheiser
The profound quote from Ronald Rolheiser, “pain is not transformed, is transmitted,” captures the essence of this concept. This statement emphasizes the importance of resolving personal issues and healing from past traumas before stepping into the role of a mentor or a guide. If we do not address our own unresolved issues, we risk transferring our pain and dysfunction onto those we are trying to disciple.
This highlights the importance of resolving issues that have shaped one’s identity and character, as they can shape the people who come before them. Our character is a culmination of our past experiences and the ways in which we have dealt with them. If we have unresolved issues, they can inadvertently shape those we disciple. Therefore, addressing these issues and healing from them is crucial to avoid passing on our dysfunctions to those we lead.
The book of Judges in the Old Testament narrates cycles of failure with the children of Israel. In one of these cycles, a leader named Gideon is raised by God. Gideon, despite being chosen by God, struggles with low self-esteem. This struggle is evident in Judges 6:25-26, where God instructs Gideon to tear down his father’s idols and build a proper altar to God.
25 On that very night the Lord said to him, “Take your father’s young bull and a second bull seven years old. Then TEAR DOWN the altar of Baal THAT BELONGS TO YOUR FATHER and cut down the Asherah pole beside it. 26 Build a well-constructed altar to the Lord your God on the top of this mound. Take the second bull and offer it as a burnt offering with the wood of the Asherah pole you cut down.”
Judges 6:25-26
This story is a powerful depiction of how personal dysfunctions can affect one’s ability to lead and disciple others. Gideon’s low self-esteem, a result of his father’s idolatry, hinders his ability to see himself as a leader. However, God instructs him to confront his past, symbolized by tearing down his father’s idols, and build a new foundation, represented by the construction of a new altar.
This act of courage and obedience not only transforms Gideon’s self-perception but also prepares him to effectively lead and disciple others. It is a vivid illustration of how confronting and resolving our personal dysfunctions can positively impact our ability to disciple others.
Understanding and addressing our personal dysfunctions is crucial in discipleship. It enables us to lead by example and provide a healthy and effective discipleship experience for those we are guiding. Therefore, as embarking on the journey of discipleship, we must embark on the journey of self-awareness and personal transformation.