Spiritual Disciplines

spiritual disciplines - Why is it important to practice spiritual virtues and disciplines?

Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions; I will put them into practice with all my heart.

Psalm 119:34

Train yourself to be godly. “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.”

1 Timothy 4:7-8

Let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.

Ephesians 4:23-24

Never stop praying.

1 Thessalonians 5:17

Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you.

Psalm 37:5

JUST AS OUR BODIES are made up of many muscles, so it is with our souls. We all have spiritual muscles that need strengthening, which is why practicing spiritual disciplines in our everyday life is so important. Is it hard for you to trust God? Spend time in his Word? Be thankful? Control your tongue? Pray for others? Decide what area of your faith you would like to see grow, and take small steps each day to make this a habit. Spiritual disciplines are not quick fixes to make you a “good” Christian. Rather, they are ways to slowly shape your heart to help you become more like Jesus.

Prayer Prompts

Lord, the spiritual muscle I want to strengthen is . . .

Your Word encourages me to begin by . . .