Spiritual Disciplines Handbook: Practices That Transform Us (Transforming Resources)

Before making a rule, take stock of your desires, natural rhythms, limits and times of closest connection to God. The following questions can provide you with insights about what is most important to you in a rule. (If the word rule makes you anxious, write a “rhythm for life.”)

Unforced rhythms of grace depend on something more than self-mastery and self-effort. The simple truth is that wanting to keep company with Jesus has a staying power that “shoulds” and “oughts” seldom have.

fact, the very desire or desperation you feel can be God’s way of readying you to walk and work with Jesus. Take heart, transformation happens as you keep company with Jesus.

WRITING A RULE

Many of his deepest interactions with people get at two things: (1) the true nature of people’s desires, and (2) a spiritual practice that helps them make space for God in their lives

keeping company with Jesus no matter how little or much God speaks to me through his Word

But when we value these things more than we value God, we end up worshiping secondary things. Secondary things can never satisfy core longings. Only a love relationship with our Creator can do that.

Listen to your desires and desperations. Your desires may reflect your needs an area of struggle desperation barrenness in routines or relationships concern with lack of motivation and what is not working in your life

Disciplines are intentional ways we open space in our lives for the worship of God.