Successful companies usually have some sort of strategy to take “inventory” of what they have. Car dealerships take an inventory of their vehicles. Grocery stores take an inventory of their products. What you have in stock will determine what you need more of.
The same is true for your life. As a disciple of Christ, it is important to take an inventory of where you are and where you need to be. A discipleship inventory can be done annually, monthly, or even weekly. Personally, I like to take an inventory and evaluate my growth as a disciple on a monthly and annual basis. Here are the areas I use to help me become a fully trained disciple who looks more like my Teacher in my character.
M-7 Character Inventory: (Rate each character trait in your life 1-10, ten being “very evident.” Then write the name of a person you could better demonstrate this trait with.)
Love: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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Joy: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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Peace: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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Patience: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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Kindness: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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Goodness: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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Faithfulness: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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Gentleness: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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Self control: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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Obviously, this character inventory is based on the fruits of the Spirit Paul records in Galatians 5:22-23. This list of spiritual fruit is a great summary of what Christ-like character looks like in the life of a disciple. Trust me, you can use this inventory every month for the rest of your life and you will always have room to grow.
At Impact Discipleship Ministries, we have developed growth resources to help people learn more about Christ-like character. In Impact Two: The M-7 Project, The Character of Christ, you can discover how the Holy Spirit produces this fruit inside you. Check out impactdisciples.com to learn more.
