What Are Spiritual Disciplines In Christianity

“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 are spiritual disciplines in the Bible?

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.

Where does the Bible talk about spiritual discipline?

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.

Why is spiritual discipline important?

I wrote on fasting last week, but I realized I should have began this brief column series with a response to the question, “Why should a person fast?”

“Why should Christians exercise any spiritual discipline?” is another good question to ask. Spiritual disciplines, such as fasting, should be practiced because of the benefits they give in terms of godliness. Piety or holiness are two definitions of godliness, but one I like is this: godliness is acting as Jesus would if he were in our shoes. Spiritual disciplines, in other words, assist us in thinking and acting more like Jesus.

To begin with, spiritual disciplines teach us how to please God. “I do nothing on my own but communicate exactly what the Father has taught me…I always do what pleases Him,” Jesus said. 8:28,29; 9:28,29; 10:28,29; 11:28

Reading, studying, remembering, and meditating on Bible texts, for example, can help us understand God's goals. Intake of the Bible teaches us God's methods, warns us when we're on the verge of spiritual peril, demonstrates how to return to spiritual safety, and aligns us with God's will.

When we put this knowledge into practice, we, like Jesus, delight God. We won't be able to pursue godliness without the spiritual discipline of Bible intake.

Second, spiritual practices help us to remain in God's presence. “Jesus frequently retreated to lonely areas to pray.” 5:16 (NIV). Jesus had mastered the art of quieting his mind and seeking God's presence. Jesus said short and long prayers, both with and without others. Prayer, when practiced on a regular basis, maintains us in God's presence, where Jesus resided. Having a constant dialogue with God helps us maintain control over our emotions and desires, as well as resisting temptation. Pursuing godliness, however, necessitates the spiritual discipline of prayer.

Finally, a word of caution and encouragement: I believe people avoid spiritual disciplines for two reasons: first, disciplines are not always successfully taught, and I often freeze rather than move when I lack information. Others, I believe, are experiencing the same difficulties.

It's risky to ignore God because of a lack of knowledge. If you don't know how to pray or study the Bible, ask a Christian friend; you'll both benefit from learning together. Second, spiritual disciplines necessitate effort. Any activity that benefits us usually necessitates some effort. Spiritual conflict, in addition to effort, frequently accompanies any technique we do to attain godliness.

But don't despair! Christ promises that He will never abandon us, but will provide us with the assistance we require through the Holy Spirit. Strength, endurance, and even spiritual protection are all provided by him. Why don't you get started right away? Memorize and pray the following Scripture prayer, and consider what it means for your life: “I pray to the Lord, and He responds from His holy mountain. I lie down and sleep, and then I wake up because the Lord keeps me alive. “I'm not afraid…” Psalm 3:6–8

Pursuing godliness with the support of other brothers and sisters in Christ is always beneficial.

Is reading the Bible a spiritual discipline?

We must be disciplined in our approach to reading the Bible since it is a spiritual discipline. If you don't want to read the Bible, pray and ask God to fill you with a desire to do so. Then schedule time to read Scripture into your day and make it a priority. Then you should locate people who will hold you accountable to a reading schedule. Perhaps you might establish a reading plan with a friend.

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.

What is the biblical meaning of discipline?

Discipline is to instruct, correct, reprimand, or rebuke in the ancient Hebrew of Proverbs. It does not imply that you will be punished or beaten.

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.