Pastor's Blog

In the last few weeks, we have seen the phrase spiritual disciplines pop up. I used it in the devotional last week and in the sermon. Over these next few weeks, we will explore together a few of the spiritual disciplines. We will answer what they are, why we need them, how we practice them, and so on.

Spiritual disciplines are necessary because none of us are inclined to connect with Jesus. We all have an implied default against communing with the Savior. Therefore connecting with him is something we have to make an effort at. Hence, it is a discipline.

If you are interested in going deeper into the study of the spiritual disciplines, I recommend the classic book Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster. The following weeks will include excerpts and be informed by that book.

Foster lists 12 disciplines of the Christian spiritual life. 4 are inward, 4 are outward, and 4 are corporate.

Inward:

Meditation
Prayer
Fasting
Study

Outward:

Simplicity
Solitude
Submission
Service

Corporate”

Confession
Worship
Guidance
Celebration

Of the above disciplines, I am sure many are familiar to you. Hearing that we need to pray, study our Bible, serve, and worship corporately is not a surprise to you. But if those comprise all of our relationship with Jesus, we are missing out on the richness and fullness of all there is to Jesus.

Which of the above have you been practicing? Which one allows you to connect most deeply with your loving creator? Where do you need to dedicate more intentional time?

If you are feeling far from God, know that He is near. Take one of the inward disciplines and start practicing it this week. Spend a half-day fasting and seeking God. Spend 30 minutes to an hour studying and meditating on your favorite passage in the Bible. God wants you to come close.

In Christ,

Pastor Michael Covey

“Come near to God and He will come near to you...” -James 4:8a