What It Really Means to Follow Jesus (Not Just Be a Christian)

April 29, 2026
00:00 29:00
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Have you ever wondered if you’re truly following Jesus or just doing all the “right” things?

In this conversation, I sit down with Natalia Drumm to talk about what discipleship really looks like in everyday life. Not performance. Not checking boxes. But actually walking with Jesus.

We talk about why community alone isn’t enough, how to know if you’re growing spiritually, and what it means to surrender control to God, even when it’s hard.

If you’ve been craving something deeper in your faith, this conversation will help you see what’s been missing… and how to take your next step.

And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode!

Xo,

Donna

Key Takeaways:

  • How Natalia started “Girlfriends in the Word” from a personal need
  • Why many women feel disconnected even in church settings
  • The difference between being a Christian and being a disciple
  • Why reading Scripture matters more than relying on other resources
  • The danger of “performative” faith in today’s culture
  • What it really means to abide in Jesus
  • How to identify who (or what) is discipling you
  • The power of multi-generational relationships in spiritual growth
  • Letting go of personal ambition to embrace God’s assignment
  • What it looks like to “die to yourself” in everyday life

What Discipleship Actually Looks Like

  1. Know Jesus through His Word
    You can’t follow someone you don’t know—Scripture reveals who He truly is.
  2. Abide, Don’t Perform
    Transformation comes from staying close to Jesus, not striving to impress Him.
  3. Be Discipled (Don’t Go Alone)
    You need people ahead of you who can guide and pour into your life.
  4. Disciple Others
    As you grow, turn around and help someone else follow Jesus too.
  5. Surrender Your Will
    Let Jesus be King—release control and trust His way over yours.

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my latest book -

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith.

Connect with Natalia:

Website: nataliadrumm.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/girlfriendsintheword

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliadrumm/

Podcast: Girlfriends in the Word

Let’s Connect:

Instagram: @donnaajones

Website: www.donnajones.org

Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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Meet Your Host
As a pastor’s wife with decades ministering to women, Donna Jones brings a wellspring of real-life wisdom, a lifetime of Biblical knowledge, and a dose of wit to propel listeners forward in their journey with God. She’s been described as “practical, biblical, engaging, and real, with the warmth you’d expect from a friend.”

Donna is the author of three books, including Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God and Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life. She’s written six Bible studies, four that deal with topics near to a woman’s heart: family, friendship, confidence, and contentment. Her works have been featured on Proverbs 31 Ministries, Focus on the Family, and Crosswalk. A national and international speaker, Donna has spoken to audiences in 28 states and on four continents and has been a guest on numerous podcasts and television shows.

Connect with Donna at www.donnajones.org, on Instagram @donnaajones or Facebook at Donna Jones, Speaker & Author.
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