A Year of Spiritual Discipline
Wishing you a joyous New Year, dear readers! As we find ourselves on the brink of a fresh beginning, there's the exciting prospect that this year carries the promise of significant spiritual development. Join us today as we explore the idea of dedicating this year to spiritual discipline, a path that assures you to boost your connection with God.
Understanding Spiritual Disciplines
Spiritual disciplines are the heartbeat of our relationship with God. As a deliberate effort to draw closer to Him, they entail various practices that stimulate spiritual growth, ultimately resulting in a more intimate union with God. From prayer and fasting to meditation and study, these disciplines are the tools that sculpt our spiritual lives.
"Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." James 4:8
Setting Spiritual Goals for the Year
Take inventory of your current spiritual practices. What has been the focus of your faith? Are there disciplines you wish to explore further? What aspects of your faith do you wish to strengthen? Now, take into consideration the diverse array of disciplines such as prayer, fasting, meditation, study, and service. Consider specific areas for growth, whether it's a more meaningful prayer life, a greater understanding of scripture, or a commitment to acts of service. Determine how each discipline aligns with your faith and resonates with your unique spiritual needs. Establish your goals, ensuring they are specific and achievable.
"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14
Developing a Spiritual Discipline Plan
"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." Proverbs 16:3
Once you've outlined your goals, it's time to craft a personalized spiritual discipline plan. Consider the practical aspects—when and where will you engage in these disciplines? How can you integrate them into your daily life?
With a clear understanding of spiritual disciplines and defined goals, it's time to craft a personalized spiritual discipline plan. Consider the following steps:
Self-Assessment:
"Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?" 2 Corinthians 13:5
- Reflect on your current spiritual practices.
- Identify strengths and areas for improvement.
- Acknowledge past successes and challenges.
Goal Setting:
"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10
- Break down broader spiritual goals into smaller, actionable steps.
- Establish short-term objectives that contribute to your overarching spiritual goals.
Discipline Integration:
"Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come." 1 Timothy 4:7-8
- Determine how each chosen discipline aligns with your spiritual goals.
- Integrate disciplines into your daily or weekly routine.
- Set aside dedicated time for your practices.
Identify Potential Challenges:
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
- Take time to identify potential challenges that may arise in your pursuit of spiritual goals.
- Create a plan to overcome any potential challenges.
***We go into greater detail about potential challenges and how to overcome them below***
Accountability:
"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2
- Consider sharing your spiritual goals with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor.
- Establish regular check-ins or accountability sessions to assess progress and provide support.
Flexibility:
"In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." Proverbs 16:9
- Recognize the need for adaptability in your spiritual discipline plan.
- Be open to modifying your plan based on evolving needs and insights.
Reflection and Adjustment:
"Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23-24
- Regularly reflect on your journey and assess how well your plan is working.
- Adjust your plan as needed, considering changes in circumstances or spiritual insights.
To make the process a little easier, be sure to download and print these Spiritual Goal Planning Sheets that will help guide you through the process!
More on Identifying Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Understanding is the first step to overcoming. Acknowledging potential challenges allows you to address them proactively.
Common challenges include:
- Time Constraints
- Distractions
- Doubts
- External Pressures
- Unrealistic Expectations
- Lack of Consistency
- Setbacks
- Lack of Motivation
Challenges are an inevitable part of the journey, but there are practical strategies that can be easily implemented to overcome them.
+ Ground Yourself in Prayer: In moments of challenge, turn to prayer as a source of strength. Seek guidance, wisdom, and resilience from God.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
+ Strive for Consistency, Not Perfection: Challenges often arise when we set unrealistically high expectations. Embrace a mindset of consistency rather than perfection. Recognize that spiritual growth is a gradual process, and small, consistent steps are more sustainable than occasional leaps.
+ Seek Accountability and Support: Engage with a community that shares your faith journey. Seek out an accountability partner or join a support group where you can openly discuss challenges and receive encouragement.
“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up." Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
+ Learn from Setbacks: Challenges are opportunities for growth. When setbacks occur, view them as lessons rather than failures. Determine what went wrong, adjust your approach, and use the experience to strengthen your commitment to your spiritual goals.
+ Focus on the Purpose Behind the Goal: Reconnect with the deeper purpose behind your spiritual goals. When challenges arise, reminding yourself of the reasons for your journey can reignite motivation and commitment.
"Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:6
+ Celebrate Progress: Celebrate the small victories along the way. Spiritual growth is a journey marked by progress, not a destination of perfection. Share your successes with your community, and let the collective joy inspire and motivate you to continue forward.
Be sure to download and print a copy of Challenge Your Challenge: Scriptural Inspiration to Overcome Challenges and Encourage You to Reach Your Spiritual Goals.
Wishing You a Blessed and Purposeful Journey Ahead
As you set out on a year of intentional spiritual discipline, remember that this journey is unique to you. Embrace the opportunity to draw closer to God, utilizing the richness of spiritual disciplines to guide your path. We are excited to hear your goals, experiences, and insights in the comments. Here's to a year of deepened faith, strengthened discipline, and a closer walk with Him.
-Torrance Church of Christ