Week #4: Spiritual Disciplines
Blog Series Intention Recap
Many of us long for a fresh start. Our work, home life, or hobbies can feel stale. In our relationship with God, we may have fallen into what some have called “practical atheism,” as we believe but fail to live out that belief in our everyday life. This four-week series inspires us to move from practical atheism to a flourishing faith that informs every aspect of our public and private lives, as we rediscover our most basic sanctification practices.
This post is a part of the series “Same Old Me.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.
Let’s jump into Week #4:
Sanctification, the process of becoming more like Jesus, is nurtured through spiritual disciplines that draw us closer to God and strengthen our faith.
Why it matters:
Sanctification means growing to be more like Jesus.
Spiritual disciplines like prayer, fasting, Bible study, and worship help in this process.
These practices strengthen our relationship with God and develop our character.
Regular practice of spiritual disciplines leads to a deeper, more fulfilling relationship with God.
Go Deeper
Sanctification is a vital part of the Christian life. It means growing to be more like Jesus through the help of the Holy Spirit. Richard Foster, in his book "The Spirit of the Disciplines," explains how spiritual disciplines help believers deepen their faith and strengthen their relationship with God. This blog post will explore what sanctification and spiritual disciplines are, how they help us grow, and how we can incorporate them into our daily lives.
Sanctification and Spiritual Disciplines
Sanctification comes from a word that means "to make holy." In Christianity, sanctification is the process of becoming more like Jesus. This means our thoughts, actions, and character start to reflect Jesus more and more. It's a lifelong journey that starts when we first believe in Jesus.
Spiritual disciplines are practices that help Christians grow in sanctification. These practices are not rules to follow but habits that help us connect with God and become more like Jesus. Some of the most important spiritual disciplines include prayer, fasting, Bible study, and worship. By engaging in these practices, we open our hearts to God's work in our lives.
Examples of Spiritual Disciplines
Prayer
Prayer is one of the most important spiritual disciplines. It is our way of talking to God and listening to Him. Through prayer, we can express our gratitude, confess our sins, ask for help, and seek guidance. Prayer helps us stay connected to God and reminds us of His presence in our lives.
Fasting
Fasting is the practice of abstaining from food or other activities for a period of time to focus on God. It helps us develop self-control and reminds us that our true sustenance comes from God. Fasting can also help us break free from habits or distractions that keep us from focusing on our relationship with God.
Bible Study
Studying the Bible is essential for growing in our faith. The Bible is God's Word, and it teaches us about His character, His promises, and His will for our lives. By reading and studying the Bible regularly, we can better understand God's plan for us and learn how to live according to His teachings.
Worship
Worship is the act of praising and honoring God. It can take many forms, including singing, praying, and serving others. Worship helps us focus on God's greatness and reminds us of His love and power. It is an important way to express our gratitude and devotion to God.
Spiritual Disciplines and Growth in Sanctification
Spiritual disciplines help us grow in sanctification by creating space for God to work in our lives. When we practice these disciplines regularly, we become more aware of God's presence and more attuned to His will. They help us develop a deeper relationship with God and strengthen our faith. Here are some ways that spiritual disciplines can help us grow:
Developing Trust: Spiritual disciplines help us trust God more. As we spend time in prayer, fasting, Bible study, and worship, we learn to rely on God and trust His guidance and provision.
Building Character: Spiritual disciplines help us develop godly character. By practicing these disciplines, we learn to be more patient, loving, and humble. They help us become more like Jesus in our thoughts, actions, and attitudes.
Enhancing Focus: Spiritual disciplines help us focus on what truly matters. In a world full of distractions, these practices help us keep our eyes on God and His purposes for our lives.
Strengthening Resilience: Spiritual disciplines help us become more resilient in our faith. When we face challenges or difficulties, these practices provide us with the strength and encouragement we need to persevere.
Practical Steps for Practicing Spiritual Disciplines
Incorporating spiritual disciplines into our daily lives takes intentionality and commitment. Here are some practical steps to help you get started:
Set Aside Time: Dedicate specific times each day for prayer, Bible study, and worship. Consistency is key to developing these habits.
Create a Plan: Develop a plan for your spiritual disciplines. For example, choose a Bible reading plan, set specific prayer goals, or schedule regular times for fasting.
Find a Partner: Having a partner or group to practice spiritual disciplines with can provide accountability and encouragement. Share your goals and progress with others to stay motivated.
Be Patient: Developing spiritual disciplines takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and remember that growth is a gradual process.
Seek God's Guidance: Ask God to help you develop and maintain these disciplines. Pray for His guidance and strength as you seek to grow closer to Him.
Overcoming Challenges in Sanctification
Practicing spiritual disciplines can be challenging, especially when life gets busy or distractions arise. Here are some tips for overcoming common challenges:
Busyness: Make spiritual disciplines a priority by scheduling them into your day. Treat them as important appointments with God.
Distractions: Find a quiet place where you can focus on your spiritual disciplines without interruptions. Turn off electronic devices and remove other distractions.
Discouragement: Remember that growth takes time. If you miss a day or struggle with a particular discipline, don't get discouraged. Keep trying and ask God for help.
Lack of Motivation: Remind yourself of the benefits of spiritual disciplines and the importance of growing closer to God. Seek encouragement from others and celebrate your progress.
The Role of the Community in Sanctification
Community plays an important role in practicing spiritual disciplines and growing in sanctification. Being part of a church or small group can provide support, accountability, and encouragement. Here are some ways the community can help:
Encouragement: Sharing your spiritual journey with others can provide motivation and encouragement. Hearing about others' experiences can inspire you to keep going.
Accountability: Having someone to hold you accountable can help you stay committed to your spiritual disciplines. Share your goals and progress with a trusted friend or group.
Learning: Being part of a community allows you to learn from others. You can gain new insights and perspectives that can help you grow in your faith.
Support: When you face challenges or struggles, your community can provide the support and prayers you need. Knowing that others are praying for you can be a great source of strength.
Spiritual Disciplines in the Bible
The Bible provides many examples of spiritual disciplines. Here are a few:
Jesus' Prayer Life: Jesus often spent time in prayer, seeking God's guidance and strength. He prayed alone, with His disciples, and in the synagogue. (Mark 1:35, Luke 5:16)
Daniel's Fasting: Daniel fasted and prayed to seek God's help and guidance. His fasting showed his devotion and dependence on God. (Daniel 9:3)
David's Worship: David worshipped God through songs, prayers, and dance. His psalms are filled with expressions of praise and gratitude. (Psalm 100)
Paul's Bible Study: Paul studied the Scriptures diligently and encouraged others to do the same. He used the Scriptures to teach and strengthen the early church. (Acts 17:11, 2 Timothy 3:16-17)
How does this help me understand the “Same Old Me?”
Sanctification is the process of becoming more like Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit. Spiritual disciplines like prayer, fasting, Bible study, and worship are essential for this growth. These practices help us develop trust, build character, enhance focus, and strengthen resilience. By incorporating spiritual disciplines into our daily routines, we create space for God to work in our hearts and minds. Remember, growth takes time, so be patient and persistent in your efforts. Seek support from your community and trust in God's guidance as you practice these important habits. By doing so, you will draw closer to God and experience a deeper, more fulfilling relationship with Him.
Sanctification and spiritual disciplines go hand in hand. By engaging in prayer, fasting, Bible study, and worship, we open our hearts to God's work in our lives. These disciplines help us develop trust, build character, enhance focus, and strengthen resilience. Incorporating spiritual disciplines into our daily routines takes intentionality and commitment, but the rewards are worth it. With God's help and the support of our community, we can grow in our faith and experience a deeper, more fulfilling relationship with God. Through this journey of sanctification, we become more like Jesus and reflect His love and character to the world.
