Spiritual Disciplines

Mindy Simmons 

This Sunday, Pastor Ryan emphasized that a relationship with Jesus is the greatest treasure you will ever find. This got me thinking about the importance of practicing spiritual disciplines in growing our personal relationships with Jesus. The word “discipline” doesn’t exactly sound very appealing, does it? But a relationship with Jesus takes effort on our part, because you can’t get to know someone without spending time with them and investing energy into the relationship. 

I grew up in the church, and was taught over and over that practicing spiritual disciplines is a vital part of walking with Jesus. This includes practices such as prayer, Bible reading, stewardship and giving, worship, fasting, journaling, serving, confession, and solitude. I am also a rule follower by nature, and over the years there have been times when my own practice of Bible reading, prayer, or giving morphed from wanting to invest in my walk with God, to simply checking off a box on my to-do list. Even worse, at times it became a legalistic habit instead of a life-giving part of my relationship with God. 

That being said, I firmly believe that God will bless your obedience even if your motivation or energy don’t quite match the level of your obedient actions. We all go through phases where we feel closer to Jesus, and those where we feel further away. But, the truth is, God’s distance from us doesn’t change – our attention to His nearness does. Spiritual habits help anchor us in our faith and help us keep our eyes on Jesus. 

Where would you rate your own spiritual disciplines or habits? Do you find yourself praying regularly (which is simply talking and listening to God)? Do you regularly read and study God’s Word (the Bible, not just books about the Bible)? Do you practice regular tithing and generosity (committing your resources and time to the One who is your Provider)? Are you taking time to worship Jesus and thank Him? What other actions are you taking to get to know Jesus more? 

I hope these questions don’t cause guilt or shame – none of us are perfect, and none of us have a perfect walk with God. Rather, I hope these questions encourage you to examine your habits and routines, and inspire you to go deeper in your relationship with Jesus. As Ryan also said on Sunday: religion is always inferior to a relationship with Jesus. Be cautious that your spiritual disciplines don’t become something you boast about or are prideful about. Rather, keep them focused on the right goal: growing the best and most important relationship in your life. Remember: a relationship with Jesus is the greatest treasure you will ever find.