Spiritual Practices Intro

Perhaps with Brave as my word of the year, I am in the mindset of taking on or trying out new things. Christianity perhaps isn’t a new thing for me to take on (thankfully), but there are so many practices to learn about and seek out. I’ve jotted down 27 in recent weeks!

Foster and Willard are perhaps the more famous of theologians who have discussed the topic of Christian Practices or Spiritual Disciplines. However, a number of others have added to the body of research, Bass and McLaren for example. I have no intention of addressing the work of these theologians, however they are there for reference and additional information. I intend to understand the basic principles of various disciplines and share them with you monthly, perhaps one or 2.

What are spiritual practices?

Spiritual Practices are activities known to strengthen our Christian walk and draw us nearer to God to become more Christlike. These activities are not things that we naturally do but choose to participate in them on a regular basis to deepen our personal relationship with God and grow spiritually. Some practices are solely individual, others are corporate and some fall into either category. Some are outward practices and others are inward.

Many Christians practice spiritual disciplines such as prayer and Bible study or reading. Others join in meditation or practice solitude. Most practices will not be totally new, but already in gathering a list of such activities, I have found some to be outside the normal list. I have been challenged to view usual activities through a spiritual lens, certainly that is already stretching me spiritually.

Living Sacrifice

I’ve just added one more practice to my list. I am coming to understand that these practices, biblical practices, perhaps should be a long list. Since all of our life is to be a living sacrifice to God - reflecting him and giving him glory, shouldn’t all of our actions and activities then be biblical practices/ spiritual disciplines? Was Paul’s tentmaking not biblical? Providing shelter for others should be a part of what we corporately do, even if we don’t go around nailing siding to people’s homes.

I look forward to growing spiritually through intentional biblical practices this year. What would you like to look at as a biblical practice? Drop a line in the comments.