Bible Verse: “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” Philippians 2:12
Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:12-18
Have you ever sat down in a restaurant and been handed a multi-page menu? I find it overwhelming. I came to the restaurant to eat, not read a book.
I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of spiritual disciplines. Books list dozens of disciplines we can develop in multiple categories: inward disciplines like prayer and study, outward disciplines like service, and corporate disciples like worship.
Rather than feeling overwhelmed, I’ve come to see the value in choosing one or two of the most strategic disciplines for my life right now, starting small, and building from there. Begin with Bible reading and attending church, and focus on those until you build some consistency.
After that, add in prayer. Make a short list of things to pray for, and begin to talk to God about what’s going on in your life. Talk to Him about whatever is on your mind.
As you build those disciplines, start to add others slowly. Ask God for wisdom about which ones seem to be the most strategic, and experiment with some examples:
- Financially support the ministry of your church and other ministries.
- Look for ways to serve at your church and to help others.
- Experiment with fasting from food, social media, or something else.
- Gradually add in other disciplines like evangelism.
The important thing is to take your time to build a foundation and not get overwhelmed. Experiment, and every time you get overwhelmed, simply go back to basics and start to rebuild from there.
Prayer: Lord, give me joy as I build these disciplines in my life. And help me not to get overwhelmed. Amen.
Reflection: What spiritual discipline is most strategic for you right now?
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