Disciplines do not gain us God's favor or serve as a metric for spiritual achievement. They are exercises that prepare us to live fully and freely in God's present reality and God works with us as we learn and grow.
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Meditation: The ability to hear God's voice and obey his word.
The ability to hear God's voice and heed his commands is referred to as meditation. Christian meditation creates a beautiful window of time for God, the Lover, and us, the Beloved, to meet. We can meet with God in ever-increasing familiarity and intimacy because we come willing to enter into a listening quiet, not because of any unique abilities. It is a spiritual and emotional creation of space in our sometimes chaotic and hurried world, allowing the Creator of the universe to meet with us face to face, as he did with Moses.
Prayer: The interactive conversation with God about what we are doing together.
Prayer is a two-way dialogue with God about what we're doing together. Prayer is first and foremost a listening exercise, with the goal of grasping God's purpose in any given situation. The pray-er is unavoidably a participant in change, both within oneself and in the circumstances and lives for which we pray, when listening and perceiving God's will. As we endeavor to approach our Father with openness, honesty, and trust as his child, prayer is a lifelong learning process.
Fasting: The voluntary denial of an otherwise normal function for the sake of intense spiritual activity.
Fasting is the voluntary cessation of a normally performed function in order to devote oneself to intensive spiritual activity. Biblical fasting is always focused on spiritual goals. Fasting is done with the intention of seeking God, usually alone and without the desire to receive acceptance from others. Fasting allows us to uncover the things that have us under control. It reminds us that every word of God sustains us and restores equilibrium in a believer's life in terms of priorities and non-essentials.
Study: The mind taking on an order conforming to the order of whatever we concentrate upon.
The discipline of study necessitates a humble mindset, since it recognizes that the main goal is to experience, learn from, and be changed by information rather than simply accumulating it. It is critical to study not only books but also the natural world, relationships, events, and cultural values. A person is transformed via the processes of study repetition, focus, comprehension, and reflection and emerges in awe of God's and the world's beauty.
What are the main spiritual disciplines?
Spiritual disciplines are practices that are intended to help people change their lives. Their goal is to help us grow spiritually as Christ's disciples and improve our relationship with God. They're similar to spiritual training activities. However, just like any other form of exercise, we must choose to perform it on a regular basis in order to feel or see the benefits. So, what are these practices, exactly? Consider the following lists from two of the most influential publications on the subject from the twentieth century:
Dallas Willard's The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives
- Abstinence disciplines include seclusion, silence, fasting, frugality, chastity, confidentiality, and sacrifice.
- Study, worship, celebration, service, prayer, fellowship, confession, and submission are the disciplines of engagement.
As you can see, there are a variety of ways to structure these lists of spiritual disciplines, as well as which disciplines are included. So, how did these practices come to be? Because they've endured the test of time, the majority of them are considered spiritual disciplines. Finally, Christians have decided to incorporate these disciplines into their spiritual lives because they are practices that Jesus himself practiced or taught about, according to the Bible.
What is the role of spiritual disciplines?
“The meaning of terrestrial existence is not in prosperity, as we have come to believe, but in the development of the soul.” Alexander Solzhenitsyn, author of Alexander Solzhenitsyn and Alexander Solzhenitsy
We looked at the similarities between training the physical body and training the spiritual soul last month “When muscles are exercised, they gain strength and agility; they require pain, effort, weight, and resistance to grow; and they can only be perfected by persistent, continuous practice.
The types of activities used in bodybuilding are well-known: calisthenics, jogging, biking, lifting weights, stretching, plyometrics, and so on.
But what are the spiritual equivalents of “barbells” and “push-ups”? What are some exercises that can be used to strengthen the soul?
We'll be running a series of articles on these exercises, known as spiritual disciplines, over the coming few months, and today we'll give you a general overview of what they're all about.
What Are Spiritual Disciplines?
“What we urgently need now is a bigger number of deep people, not more brilliant or skilled individuals.” Richard J. Foster (Richard J. Foster) (Richard J. Foster) (Rich
Spiritual disciplines are habits, activities, and experiences that are intended to develop, mature, and reinforce particular spiritual traits to strengthen one's character “muscles” and broaden one's inner existence. They organize the “workouts” that prepare the soul. Some spiritual disciplines are solitary, inward exercises, while others necessitate interpersonal relationships and are done in groups.
Many philosophers, theologians, and writers have recommended a variety of practices that could be classified as spiritual disciplines across time. These are some of them:
We've chosen eight of these spiritual disciplines as the most important for modern-day males, encompassing a wide range of belief systems and incorporating numerous other disciplines. These eight will be explored as four complimentary pairings in this series:
Are the Spiritual Disciplines for Me?
“Perhaps you have heard the call to deeper, fuller living somewhere in the underground chambers of your life. You've had enough of frothy experiences and superficial instruction. You've gotten glances, clues of something more than you've known, now and again. You secretly yearn to dive into the ocean.” Richard J. Foster (Richard J. Foster) (Richard J. Foster) (Rich
With their emphasis on ascetic activities, the spiritual disciplines arose from the early Orthodox and Catholic churches, particularly their monastic orders. However, Protestant groups have embraced them as well.
Though the concept of “spiritual disciplines,” as defined and classified, is linked with the Christian tradition, many of the disciplines are shared by many religions and philosophical traditions, including Stoicism. They can be done by men of all faith traditions, as well as those who have no faith at all.
Non-theists may simply see the soul they are attempting to educate as the mind's higher capacity or the human will, whereas theists may see it as an eternally generated essence. Spiritual disciplines' motivations and goals will be viewed differently by people with different belief systems. However, there is a lot of overlap between all of them, particularly when it comes to the “mechanics” of the activities. As a result, this series will attempt to describe the disciplines' prospective aims, benefits, and applications in a way that is inclusive, practical, and yet yet important.
What does the Bible say about spiritual disciplines?
Spiritual practices are a good way to keep your religion in shape. The Apostle Paul explains in 1 Timothy 4:7-8 that while physical training is beneficial, it is much more vital to prepare for godliness. Prayer, fasting, simplicity, silence, isolation, service, giving, and, of course, Bible study and meditation are all good ways to improve our spiritual fitness. In the Christian religion, there is no single comprehensive list of spiritual disciplines, although all of them have their roots in Scripture. I'd like to talk about a practice that has revitalized my spiritual life and improved my relationship with God's Word: memorizing Scripture. When addressed with prayer, this type of meditation can assist establish the groundwork for spiritual health and godliness.
God instructs us to write his commandments on our doorframes and to bind them as symbols on our palms and foreheads (Deuteronomy 6:8). We're told to put them on our hearts, both literally and metaphorically (Deuteronomy 6:6). Why? So that we don't forget the Lord who freed us from sin's shackles (Deuteronomy 6:12). “I have concealed your word in my heart that I might not sin against you,” says one who knows God's Word (Psalm 119:11 NIV). It sets the sword of the Spirit in our hands, allowing us to drive off temptation to sin at any time, whether we have a physical Bible with us or not. That is exactly what Jesus accomplished. He memorized Scripture and responded to Satan's temptations with a slash from the Word of truth (Matthew 4:1-11).
In my own experience, I discovered that, far from hindering my knowledge of God's Word, rote memorization considerably boosted it. I found myself thinking about what verse 3 meant when it said “you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ” as I worked on memorizing Colossians 3. My eyes, mind, and even tongue passed over the lines again and again, each one building steadily on the other; I found myself thinking about what verse 3 meant when it said “you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ.” It seemed to me that understanding this crucial term enabled me to grasp the rest of the chapter's putting to death, ridding, taking off, putting on, clothed, forgiving, letting, submitting, and obeying. Before I can do anything, I have to recognize that I have been crucified with Christ and given new life in him. I have received deeper wisdom of God and his perfect will through every amount of Scripture memorizing I have ever done.
Scripture memorization is difficult. There is no such thing as a “easy method” for memorizing Bible verses or passages. You may, however, identify strategies and resources that are tailored to your learning style to help you achieve. Here are some pointers:
Begin your new habit by memorizing one verse per week. Pray and ask God to show you what to memorize and to assist you in doing so. You could memorize individual verses, a short chapter, or a group of verses that form a theme (like perseverance, for example). God may even lead you to memorize entire chapters or even a book. Start by adding one new verse per week, whatever your objective is.
Continue to study the passages you've already remembered as you add new ones. For example, if I memorized John 3:16 the first week, I should reread John 3:16 when memorizing John 3:17 the next week. This will aid with the memorization of the scripture, especially if you're memorizing a passage or chapter. Retrace your steps and recite all the verses you've memorized in your current plan to that point each week when you add a new verse. Of course, if you continue memorizing for a long time, reviewing all of the passages you've ever studied on a weekly basis will become too time consuming. Instead, while working on your present memorizing plan, pick which passages you'd like to review. You can keep even sections you've memorized for a long time fresh this way.
Start memorizing by reading the material in context, aloud if feasible, whether it's only one verse or an entire chapter. Then read the passage you're working on multiple times, making sure to pronounce each word clearly. Saying the passage aloud will help you remember the words and phrases. Repetition is effective. If you're a kinesthetic learner like me, writing or typing out the verse may be beneficial. You can also print a verse, clip the words apart, and then put them back together again. A variety of digital tools for memorizing are available online or as mobile apps. Working with another person, such as a family member or a friend, adds accountability and allows you to encourage one another as you memorize God's Word.
Scripture memorization refreshes and strengthens our intellect. God's own words are tucked deep within our hearts, and his Spirit draws them out when we need them. By memorizing Bible verses, we have them at our fingertips to encourage fellow Christians and to share with people who do not yet know God in a loving manner. The act of memorizing is a type of Bible meditation. There are numerous strategies and instruments available to assist, but none of them make it simple. After all, the goal is for the scripture to be memorized for the rest of one's life. Scripture memorizing will put you to the test. Knowing God, his Word, and his perfect will, on the other hand, is well worth the effort.
How does Foster define study in the discipline?
It is what it is. In his book Celebration of Discipline, Richard Foster says, “Study is a specific form of experience in which the mind is enabled to progress in a given direction via careful attention to reality.” Simply put, you will begin to resemble the things on which you focus your time and energy.
What are disciplines of engagement?
The Discipline of Engagement is the discipline of making plans and following through on them with the goal of gradually improving and strengthening relationships.
How does spiritual discipline help us grow?
Discipline isn't a term we associate with happiness. We consider it a lack of liberty. It frequently evokes sentiments of being unnecessarily domineering. Discipline is not a terrible thing, even if these things spring to mind. We don't like it because it pushes us to alter and do things differently than we would want, yet the benefits of living a disciplined lifestyle are undeniable.
Discipline Leads to Success
“It has been demonstrated time and time again over the course of our 237-year history that discipline is the difference between winning and losing, between mediocre and outstanding.” (On military norms and discipline, Command Sgt. Maj. Shelton R. Williamson, 2017, Army University Press.)
The military is a great example of how to be disciplined. Soldiers must follow a set of regulations, procedures, and a schedule to the letter. These aren't recommendations; they're requirements. Failure to adhere to any of them may result in disciplinary action. Why do they stick to such rigid schedules? Is the goal of a system like this to deprogram or brainwash people? No, the military's structure and discipline lead to increased efficiency in achieving objectives. It is what leads to achievement. It's what gets you to the top.
Discipline Leads to Health
Brushing our teeth, taking vitamins, getting a particular amount of sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising are just a few of the things we do because we know they are beneficial for us. We do these things because we know they will assist us in not only surviving, but also excelling physically and emotionally. In essence, they assist us in achieving our objectives. These items aren't the panacea for achieving success in all aspects of our lives on their own. However, when used collectively, they set us for positive outcomes.
Discipline Leads to Strong Faith
Spiritual practices are no different. These are simple habits and activities that aid in the development, growth, and strengthening of our Christian faith. Prayer, Bible study, meditation, fasting, confession, solitude, worship, and celebration are examples of these practices. These items aren't going to save us. They aren't a recipe for receiving God's blessing. Instead, they are what assist us in developing a strong, long-lasting faith that is put into practice. They don't have any power of their own, but they do assist in the development and strengthening of a faith that connects to the one who is all-powerful.
“Spiritual disciplines act like wires, connecting us to the gospel's power. They have no power in and of themselves, but they connect us to the source of power. They are portals to the gospel, but they are not the gospel.” J.D. Greear, pastor
Strong Faith Doesn't Just Happen on its Own
We don't develop our faith in a natural way. This isn't something that will happen by chance. While we did nothing to earn our salvation, Jesus accomplished it all, there are things we can do to strengthen our relationship with the God of our salvation.
“I travel through life as a transitory on his path to eternity, created in the image of God but debased, in need of instruction in meditation, worship, and thought.” Coggan, Dan
We won't be able to grow in our religion until we make a conscious effort to do so. We must take action and cultivate self-discipline in specific areas. The good news is that God has made it possible for us to do so. As followers of Christ, it is thus our responsibility to take these measures since we know they will lead to spiritual health and vigor.
We Become Disciplined Because We Want to Know God Better
“A yearning for God is the most important condition for doing the disciplines.” “Celebration of Discipline,” by Richard Foster
If Jesus is our Lord and Savior, we should have a strong desire to be near to him. We understand that without God, nothing happens. We recognize that we lack the strength to face the challenges of life on our own. We understand that we will never be able to feel true joy until we have a close relationship with God.
Why is discipline important in the church?
Church discipline is the practice of church members urging a member of the congregation to repent of their transgressions. When someone has sinned or broken the church's rules, they are subjected to church discipline. The goal of church discipline is to get the offender to repent and reconcile with God. It was also utilized to keep other members of the church safe from the effects of sin and to keep them from acting out.
What are spiritual disciplines UMC?
If you questioned the majority of individuals in your congregation, they would almost certainly respond that they want to get closer to Christ. However, if you asked them to explain how they intend to do so, you would very certainly be met with silence. If you want to assist your congregation become more Christ-like, start by encouraging them to pay more attention to spiritual disciplines.
Spiritual disciplines are biblical behaviors that help Christians grow spiritually.
While God's grace is undeserved, Christians should participate in “means of grace,” according to The Wesleyan Means of Grace.
Practices like Bible study, prayer, and charitable service, which are divided into works of piety and charity, can assist accelerate, fortify, and confirm a Christian's faith. Without these, a person's religion not only stagnates and becomes useless in the church, but it also fails to grow.
Furthermore, while communal disciplines (those meant to be undertaken in acts of community) exist, there are numerous practices that should be practiced separately.
How can you inspire your congregation to make spiritual disciplines or practices a habitual part of their lives, given their importance?
Preach about spiritual disciplines
While it may seem self-evident that Bible study, prayer, and corporate worship are essential, you cannot presume that all Christians are aware of their importance.
Learn about Wesley's principles and modern-day instances of each, then preach about them. Use fresh techniques to depict Bible lessons to attract your audience's attention and encourage them to think imaginatively about their own Bible studies.
Look for sermon ideas online, including sermons by John Wesley. Include cultural examples to demonstrate the need of Christians getting active in activities that seek justice, end oppression, and help the poor.
Pray with and for your church
Don't simply pray for your church; pray with it, especially if you're trying to teach others to pray.
Many people, particularly those who go to church regularly, are hesitant to pray. They believe that prayers should be said in a certain way, with certain phrases they don't understand and postures they don't know how to imitate.
Schedule times for you and your congregation to pray together to help your congregation develop its prayer life. Consider holding classes or workshops where people can get together to learn new techniques to re-energize their prayer habits.
Promote opportunities to put disciplines into practice
Each week, most churches provide many chances for members of the congregation to engage in worship and receive the sacraments. You may make it easier for uncommitted or new Christians to find a place in your church by providing unique worship opportunities in nursing homes, college campuses, and prisons.
Many people are also unaware that spiritual disciplines like as charity, generosity, and self-sacrifice exist.
Encourage Christians to participate in service projects such as food and clothing drives, feeding the destitute, and prison relief programs, emphasizing that these are methods for Christians to not only offer love but also to develop in their faith.
Sunday school classes and small groups that meet in homes are fantastic ways to inspire your congregation to dig deeper into God's word since getting started is frequently simpler when you do it with like-minded individuals.
Remember, it's critical that your congregants start incorporating these principles into their personal life as well. Solicit participation from your church in particular times of private prayer, Bible study, and fasting for spiritual rejuvenation.
Provide resources for your congregation
By giving resources, you may help your congregation become more enthusiastic about spiritual disciplines. Print a list of freeinternet sites that offer personalBible study programs, different translations of the Bible, and commentaries for extra study, such as Bible Gateway, BibleStudyTools, or YouVersion. Make a note of them in your Sunday bulletin. Enlist a volunteer to lead a course on how to investigate Bible passages or study the Bible in new ways.
Consider providing classes or visual aids to assist Christians in learning how to strengthen their faith. Make arrangements for your group to read through the Bible in a year. If your church has a library, make sure everyone in your congregation knows about it.
Spiritual disciplines, while as old as the church, are just as relevant today as they were when it was created. Encourage your congregation to not just desire but also act in order to achieve their spiritual goals.
Assist in making spiritual disciplines a reality in your church's corporate life as well as in the lives of its members.
Who was disciplined in the Bible?
Timothy's spiritual training by Paul was paideia. Timothy was encouraged by Paul, but he was also gently rebuked from time to time. In I Timothy 2:24-25, he told Timothy (and us) to do the same.
“The Lord's servant must not dispute with others, but must be kind with all, competent to instruct, patient, and gentle in correcting those who oppose him, so that God may grant them repentance and full knowledge of the truth.”
“However, avoid profanity and old wives' tales. Exert oneself in the direction of godliness. For while physical exercise has some worth, godliness has infinite value, as it offers the promise of both now and future life” (I Timothy 4:7-8).
Spiritual discipline, Paul equated to physical training, which is a shadow of spiritual realities. As parents and disciple-makers, we should gently encourage and admonish our children as they spiritually develop and mature.