WithYou
The Third Practice
Enter Their Story
Discipleship doesn’t start with teaching...
it starts with listening.
This practice is about entering someone’s story - not to fix them, but to love them.
When we slow down enough to hear what someone’s been through and what they care about, we begin to see how God is already at work in their life.
Listen First, Speak with Care
Questions like, “Where are you at with God?” can often come too soon - before someone feels heard, known, or ready to answer. It can even close doors, causing some to shut down or feel like you're steering the conversation with an agenda.
But when we truly listen, their story often reveals what matters most—without having to ask.
We don’t need to rush to the “spiritual part.” Listening gives us what we’re looking for - the insight, the connection, and the wisdom to respond with care.
Listening is not a strategy - it’s love. Make space for their story to surface.
Start by listening. Stay curious. Let God show you where He's already at work and walk with Him from there.
Listen Up!
People drop hints about what they’ve been through—but it takes real intention to actually hear them. Whether it's after class, over coffee, or walking home, entering someone’s story starts with slowing down and caring enough to ask.
Ask a question that shows you're interested in what shaped them.
You could say: “Wait, seriously? What happened?” or “How’d that affect you?”
When you do something together, it’s easy to focus on what needs to get done—but behind every teammate is a story that shapes how they show up.
Make space to hear someone’s story in the middle of the mission.
You could say: “What part of your story brought you here?” or “Is there anything about this experience that’s reminded you of something personal?”
Family life is full of activity—but not always curiosity. Entering someone’s story starts with noticing and asking, not assuming. Whether with a child, a parent, or a spouse, you can create small moments of connection that help people feel seen.
Set aside time to ask about someone’s story—not their schedule.
You could say: “What’s something from your week that stuck with you?” or “Is there a memory you’ve never told me about?”
It’s normal to wonder if you’re doing it right. These are some of the most honest questions people ask as they learn to hear God’s voice—and some gentle reminders for the journey.
That’s a common question—and a good one. The more you listen, the more you’ll learn to recognize what sounds like Him. His voice often brings peace, clarity, conviction, or alignment with Scripture. And He’s patient as you learn.
That’s okay. Keep asking. Keep showing up. Sometimes God speaks in ways we don’t expect. Pay attention to what’s happening around you, in Scripture, or through others. Silence doesn’t mean absence.
That can be discouraging. Sometimes we hear clearly but miss the timing or meaning. Even in Scripture, God’s promises often took time. Stay open, stay curious, and keep the conversation going.
Test it. Scripture, the character of Jesus, and wise community are your filters. God’s voice brings consistency and peace. If you're unsure, slow down and ask again—He’s not in a rush.