Spiritual disciplines … that phrase has such a strange ring to it. We think of “discipline” as correction, or perhaps as grueling hard work that never ends. It doesn’t usually have a positive connotation, unless you’re into that sort of thing.
Having said that, I believe that deep down, we all crave to become people of self-discipline. God put that desire in us to help us become more like Christ, which is his ultimate desire and purpose for everyone who follows his Son, Jesus.
I’ve loved and gone through the writings of Don Whitney, Dallas Willard, R. Kent Hughes, Richard Foster and Chuck Swindoll, all of whom have written excellent books about the subject of spiritual disciplines.
They all have different lists. I’ve looked them over many times, but ultimately arrived at my own combination of spiritual disciplines I consider essential to spiritual growth for the Christian life. It isn’t comprehensive, but it’s fairly complete. I divide my list into three categories…
- Spiritual disciplines for my walk with God.
- Spiritual disciplines for my walk with other believers.
- Spiritual disciplines for my walk in the world.
These three overlapping circles really represent the realm in which believers live in this world while living an other-worldly life. And the nine disciplines, as I see them are…
Spiritual Disciplines for My Walk With God
- Prayer – In prayer, we talk to God. And in prayer, we follow Jesus’ model which included praise, purpose, provision, pardon, people, protection.
- Fasting – Fasting actually improves our discipline, and it’s highly appropriate when we’re praying over “drop your fork” sized moments in life.
- Study – Reading the Bible is a great start, but study involves getting into the Word and getting the Word into your life through meditation and memorization as well.
