In the original Karate Kid movie from 1984, we are introduced to Mr. Miyagi. He is a wise older adult who is going to teach Daniel karate in order to defend himself.

In a now iconic series of events, he has Daniel sand the floor, wax the car, paint the fence, and paint his house. Finally, Daniel feels like a slave and wants to get out of the situation. Little does he realize that Mr. Miyagi was using a method to teach him some basic maneuvers. He was having him make a motion over and over to develop his muscles and have a consistent pattern of movement. The shift happens when Mr. Miyagi shows him how it has formed several basic defense strategies for fighting. As it all comes together, it suddenly becomes clear that he is using simple tasks to teach more significant lessons. 

This way of teaching can be used in several disciplines, including spiritual ones.

In discipleship, one of the things I am trying to accomplish with a person is developing daily habits. Going through a book with daily readings forces people to set aside time every day to do spiritual reading. Having a one-year Bible reading group pushes people to read their Bible daily or at least weekly.

I hope that people will not only complete a book or read the Bible one time; it is that they will develop a habit that will stick with them for years to come. The point is not always the task but the mindset and “muscle memory” that is created in the process.

When growing disciples, this pastor uses a little of Mr. Miyagi’s technique. So don’t be disappointed if you do not instantly grow as a believer. Sometimes, your basic movements need to be mastered in order for you to take the next step.