We continue our series from our international gathering in Thailand with part two of The Inner Life of a leader. In this episode, Graham (a pastor from New Zealand with over 50 years of ministry experience) and a leader from South Asia share how they nurture and sustain their inner lives as disciples and leaders.

Part 1: Graham (New Zealand) – Dealing with our questions and thoughts

“Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” – Proverbs 4:23

Graham reflects on how leaders can deal with questions and negative thought patterns. He highlights the importance of bringing our questions honestly to the cross. He also shares the need for accountability in relationships and discerning God’s voice by taking every thought captive.

“We have to learn how to deal with the questions.”

Part 2: South Asian Leader – The rhythms of a disciple in the midst of persecution

“You have to face these things [persecution]. These things will come.”

Speaking from his context of persecution, this fruitful leader describes how rhythms of prayer, Scripture, and fellowship sustain him. He emphasises that obedience to God’s Word is central, since we can only share with others what we are living out ourselves. He explains the MAWL principle (Model, Assist, Watch, Launch) as the way he disciples others.

Even in persecution, he testifies that the Word of God brings hope and courage. Since Jesus prepares us as his disciples for suffering from the beginning, the promise of eternal life gives hope and strength. For this leader, it is a deep source of joy to see the church multiplying under persecution—he shares that they have recently recorded 2,100 churches in their network.

Final Encouragement

Once again, we see how our inner lives are the most vital part of who we are as disciples and leaders. Be encouraged by these leaders’ words to:

Guard your heart and let God’s truth shape your inner life.

Live out rhythms of prayer, Scripture, and obedience that sustain faith—even in hardship.

Graham has written a book called ‘Demon Speak: Recognising and Overcoming the Enemy Voices in Your Life’.