Why Spiritual Disciplines?

 

On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. (1 Timothy 4:8)

For many of us discipline is a dirty word, and we would rather not add any more discipline to our lives.  But think again.  Everything that is of any value to you involves discipline.  Love and marriage, child rearing, even hobbies require discipline.  The Christian life is no different.  If your relationship with God is something you value, then you will want to apply some discipline in it.   And the Apostle Paul, in writing to his young disciple, Timothy, says “discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness”.

So, what is a spiritual discipline?

According to 1 Timothy 4:8 a spiritual discipline is a biblical practice that produces godliness when done regularly. 

The bible prescribes various practices that will strengthen our faith and develop our relationship with God.  There are probably four areas that encompass most of the spiritual disciplines: The word of God, prayer, fellowship, and witnessing.  In the 1930s, Dawson Trautman, founder of the Navigators Ministry developed a simple illustration that has been helpful to so many over the years, The Wheel.  In describing the wheel, we might call them the Four Talks: we talk to God (prayer), He talks to us (the Word), we talk to Christians (fellowship), and we talk with unbelievers (witnessing).  Christ is the center of the four spokes of the wheel.  As the Christian applies these disciplines in faith and obedience, the wheel moves forward.

Although there is no agreed upon list of spiritual disciplines, most in scripture are related to the four described in The Wheel.  For example:

The Word- bible reading, bible memorization, meditating on Scripture, hearing the Word preached, etc.

Prayer- personal prayer, conversational prayer, corporate prayer, keeping a prayer journal, etc.

Fellowship- small group fellowship, corporate worship, one on one discipleship, etc.

Witnessing- friendship evangelism, initiative evangelism, sharing my testimony, etc.

Of course, additional disciplines include but are not limited to fasting, solitude, and giving.

What are the benefits of the spiritual disciplines?

Paul specifically encourages Timothy that physical discipline, like diet and exercise for example, have some limited benefit. On the other hand, spiritual discipline has benefits in the present life and the life to come.  We are better able…

1.       To know and love God (Deuteronomy 6:4-5) 

Our supreme goal in life is to find a deeply satisfying and meaningful relationship with God through Christ our Lord.  This is God's plan and intent for us.  He loves each of us and although it seems incredible, He desires a personal relationship.  This relationship with God comes through Christ by faith. Practice of the disciplines help us draw near to God, to know Him better, and love Him more fully.

2.       To grow in faith and be prepared for heaven (Romans 8:29-30)

The more time we spend in the Word and prayer, the more our faith grows. As we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word, we find ourselves being conformed to His image.  Step by step we are becoming more like Jesus Christ.  This wonderful transformation has one great result. We are being prepared for our new home in heaven.

3.       To accomplish God's will on earth (Ephesians 2:10)

In addition to our personal relationship which prepares us for heaven, we also have a job to do.  That work is never to earn our salvation but is rather a result of our salvation.  By practicing the disciplines we are better equipped to serve Him and impact the world.  Much of the sense of fulfillment we find in this life is found as we trust God, serve Him, and complete the work He has given for us to do. 

4.       To glorify God (1 Peter 2:12)

We are trophies of God's grace.  We know we are sinners saved by grace.  The Cross of Christ shows God's infinite love and mercy.  The resurrection shows His power over Satan, sin, and death. As Christ lives in us, and as His Spirit works through us, God is indeed glorified. As we walk in the Spirit and grow in Christlikeness God is glorified. Much of this is learned through the Word, prayer, fellowship, and witnessing.

Each of these benefits are realized more fully as we practice the biblical disciplines as a regular habit. 

Are there any negative side effects?

Some may wonder if practicing spiritual disciplines could cause us to be legalistic, holier than thou, prideful, or overly introspective.  I would say a resounding NO.  These issues are caused by our sin-sick hearts.  The biblical prescription for our pride and self-centeredness is found in these practices.  They are the cure not the cause.  Anything that God advises in His Word is good for us.  Most of our problems are caused by our negligence of these disciplines, not their use.

If you are new to the faith, you have an exciting adventure ahead of you.  As you experiment with these wonderful practices you will find unbelievable results.  If you are more mature in your faith you are probably already experiencing the benefits.  Now take the next step. What can you add to the disciplines you are already practicing?

So, how do I get started (or take the next step)?

•       By faith (Hebrews 11:6)

•       In the power of the Spirit (John 15:5)

•       Build on your strengths (1 Timothy 4:14-16)

•       Take small steps

As with anything in the Christian life, we want to walk by faith in the power of the Holy Spirit.  Spiritual disciplines are no different.  If we think we can apply these practices in the power of our flesh, we are deceiving ourselves.  We want to be determined with them, but not trusting in our own efforts alone. We will need God’s help as we try new disciplines.

 

Also, it’s wise to build on your strengths and take small steps.  Many have found that if your focus on the gifts God has given you, you will see greater success.  And don’t try to do too much all at one time.  If you set goals that are too lofty you may end up discouraged and want to give up.

I’m excited for you and for what is ahead.  I wish I could visit with each one of you as you try these wonderful disciplines and hear firsthand what your experience has been.  God Bless.

All passages in this post were taken from The New American Standard Bible: 1995 Update (La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation, 1995)