Simple First Steps to Disciple

Discipleship often sounds like something that requires a large program, a curriculum, or a major church initiative. But what if it’s far simpler than that? What if discipleship often begins with just one intentional relationship?

Sometimes a single faithful conversation—repeated over time—can shape how we follow Christ in every area of life, including our finances.

Today, we spoke with Brian Holtz, CEO of Compass Financial Ministry, about a simple discipleship model that has quietly transformed lives for decades. And it all begins with one person investing in another.

The Power of One-to-One Discipleship

The vision began with Howard Dayton, the founder of Compass. Many people know Howard from his years teaching about biblical stewardship, but at the heart of his ministry has always been personal discipleship.

Years ago, Howard made a simple commitment: each year, he would intentionally walk alongside one person.

They would read Scripture together, discuss what God was teaching them, and reflect on how those truths applied to their lives. Alongside Scripture, they would read a few formative Christian books and meet regularly to talk through what they were learning.

But there was one small request.

At the end of the year, the person being discipled would commit to doing the same thing with someone else. That simple multiplication strategy became known as the “One More” program—disciple one person each year and invite them to do the same.

Books That Shape the Heart

Over time, the reading list has evolved, but the goal has always remained the same: to encourage deep spiritual formation.

Some of the books commonly used in the process include:

• Humility by Andrew Murray
• Trusting God by Jerry Bridges
• Financial Discipleship by Peter Briscoe
• The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert Coleman

Each of these works invites believers to reflect deeply on their relationship with God. But as Brian Holtz explained, the real power isn’t in the book list. It’s in the relationship.

The conversations that happen as we discuss what God is teaching—how Scripture shapes decisions, priorities, and daily life—become the true treasure of the process.

A Life-Shaping Year

For Brian, this model of discipleship became deeply personal. Nearly a decade ago, his family had just relocated across state lines for work. Everything felt unsettled—his job, church, and even family rhythms. Nothing seemed to be falling into place.

Then a friend invited him into this simple discipleship process: reading Scripture and a few books together over the course of a year.

What began as a small commitment ended up transforming nearly every area of his life.

His view of money changed. His relationship with the Lord deepened. His marriage and parenting were shaped in new ways. Eventually, that same relationship even influenced his career, leading him to join Compass Financial Ministry itself.

What started as one faithful investment became a turning point in Brian’s life—and he has since walked many others through the same journey.

Where Discipleship Begins

For many believers, the idea of discipling someone else can feel intimidating. We imagine complicated programs or advanced theological training.

But Brian offers a far simpler starting point. Don’t read books alone anymore.

Invite someone to read with you—whether it’s Scripture, a devotional, or a Christian book. Meet regularly, talk about what you’re learning, and discuss how those truths apply to your life. 

That’s it. One conversation at a time.

For those who want to follow the same approach used by Howard Dayton, Compass offers free study guides through its “One More” initiative, designed to help people disciple one person each year.

One Faithful Relationship at a Time

Discipleship rarely begins with a platform or a program.

More often, it starts with a single faithful relationship—two people opening Scripture together, asking honest questions, and encouraging one another to follow Christ more closely. And when that investment is repeated again and again, the impact multiplies in ways we may never fully see.

One conversation. One relationship. One more life shaped for eternity.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• My 19-year-old daughter still lives at home, and we want to help her learn good money habits before she moves out. Should we charge her rent and save it for her? What percentage makes sense, where should we keep it, and is it wise for her to get a credit card to start building credit?
• We lived in a home for 20 years, then turned it into a rental five years ago. It hasn’t been rented for about a year due to renovations. If we sell now, can we avoid capital gains taxes, and how should we handle tithing from the sale in the most tax-efficient way?
• My daughter is listed on my bank accounts, but her struggling business could lead to bankruptcy. Could that put my money at risk, and should I remove her from the accounts to protect it?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• National Christian Foundation (NCF)
• Compass Financial Ministry | One More Program
• Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)
• FaithFi App

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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