Editor’s Note: This post is part of a series on the Spiritual Disciplines.] We end this series with a brief word on the philosophical underpinnings of the spiritual disciplines. There are certain basic, underlying realities that help to explain the need and usefulness of spiritual disciplines. They are as follows: It is possible to deliberately grow in godliness. … [Read more...] about Philosophy of the Disciplines
The Lord Works Righteousness
Psalm 103:6 The LORD works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed. At the moment you feel life is most unfair, you must understand that God is right there with you, concerned about the injustice and working on your behalf. When humans treat other humans unfairly or with distain or with partiality or withhold wages, the Lord is not disinterested or … [Read more...] about The Lord Works Righteousness
Danger of the Disciplines
[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