Spiritual Disciplines

Spiritual disciplines are habits that we develop that draw us closer to God. This is a journey to holiness. Here are some spiritual disciplines that will help you grow spiritually stronger.

Journaling
When we put things on paper they seem to come to life! Make a habit of writing down what God has done in your life, what you are struggling with, and write down your prayers to God. You will find this journal to be a great encouragement and it will become a history of God's grace and work in your life. Put down the date, and write what God is doing in your life!

Fasting
Fasting is a biblical principle. It's a time when you do away with something so that you devote yourself more completely to God. This is a personal commitment between you and God. Some people give up food for a time, or watching TV, or a consuming hobby. The Bible says when you do fast, you should not tell anyone. It's a private act between you and God.

Prayer
Praying is something that many people do; but, not very long or very often. Designating time out every day for prayer is revolutionary. Here's a simple guideline for praying. First worship God for who He is. Second, confess your sins to God. Third, thank God for his grace, love, and faithfulness. Fourth, tell God the greatest burdens on your heart. Let him know your requests. Then thank God for his love. When you pray always end with the power of Jesus' name. It's because of Jesus Christ that we now have peace with God.

Personal Retreats
Personal retreats is something we should all do. Granted, life is busy, but if you can afford to take a one hour lunch break and get alone with God, it will be life-changing. Try going to a park and opening your Bible and pray and read. Ask God to show you His will for your life. A more ambitious plan would be to spend a few days alone with God. When you do this, you should get to a place where there are no distractions. Think of it as a date with God!

Are you willing to dig deeper?

These are helpful websites that focus on the spiritual disciplines needed to cultivate a deep relationship with God:

Renovare
http://www.renovare.org/
This website is led by Richard Foster. He is a respected Christian minister who has been called to help people focus on spiritual disciplines.

The Imitation of Christ
http://www.leaderu.com/cyber/books/imitation/imitation.html
Thomas A. Kempis is a former monk who contemplates the person of Jesus Christ.