[Editor’s Note: This post is part of a series on the Spiritual Disciplines.] The Spiritual Disciplines require humility and submission to God and the power of the Holy Spirit. In the hands of the proud, they can actually bring death. If you approach them without humility and submission to God, if you approach them without the help of the Spirit… They can be … [Read more...] about Danger of the Disciplines
Who Satisfies You with Good
Psalm 103:5 who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. This world ages us. And it is more than just time. Sin and sickness and sorrow age us. Wrinkles form around eyes. Hairs turn gray. Beauty fades. Strength wanes. What is so remarkable here is the promise of a reversal. In the here and now, the Lord will … [Read more...] about Who Satisfies You with Good
Spirit of the Disciplines
[Editor’s Note: This post is part of a series on the Spiritual Disciplines.] In talking about the Spirit of the Disciplines, we are talking about how we should view and approach them. So, I would like to offer a few clarifications on what they are and what they are not. They are practices, not prerequisites. Whitney notes, “It’s crucial - crucial - to … [Read more...] about Spirit of the Disciplines
Who Redeems Your Life from the Pit
Psalm 103:4 who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, The Lord can redeem your life. “Redeem” carries with it the idea of rescuing and restoring. The way a car enthusiast might rescue a car from the dump and restore it to “new,” or even better than new, so the Lord can and will rescue and restore you. Even from pits. A … [Read more...] about Who Redeems Your Life from the Pit
Promise of the Disciplines
[Editor’s Note: This post is part of a series on the Spiritual Disciplines.] Let's talk briefly about the motivation for engaging in the Spiritual Disciplines. Why engage in these practices? What do they promise or offer? Donald Whitney (2014) begins his book with this reminder: “Discipline without direction is drudgery” (p. 1). He gives the illustration … [Read more...] about Promise of the Disciplines