I recently decided to pick up my copy of Richard Foster’s Celebrating Discipline that I have had for the past twenty years. It is an informative book to read because it reminds us of the importance of spiritual disciplines in our walk as believers. Foster emphasizes that disciplines are not the end but the path we take to the place where God transforms us. Thus, our posture when engaging in one of the spiritual disciplines is not something we do to check off on our “To-do” list, but it should be initiated from a desire to be transformed by God. As we begin the new year, what are your thoughts on the role and the application of spiritual disciplines (prayer, fasting, meditation, the study of scripture, confession, solitude, service, and worship, etc.) in your life?
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The thought of spiritual discipline for me is my daily bread. From waking wake up in the morning giving thanks to God for another day in prayer, from fasting as a form of sacrifice for discipline in the multiple roles I play as a healthcare worker, daughter, wife, mother, and sister is a must because as we go through life sometimes, we lose focus. Meditating and fasting help put things into perspective as to what Jesus Christ wants me to achieve through him who guides me in spirit and truth. The study of the Bible opens more and more my spiritual eyes to identify what I’ve survived and achieved in him. Service and worship are part of my DNA and it’s vital as a Christian to spread the gospel to others. As a young child, my mother served by sharing home-cooked meals with the homeless. Whereas in worship the enemy tried to close my mouth many times with fear, and doubts. Throughout my transformation, I’ve noticed that in worship I’ve been able to break barriers and receive peace and deep connection in the spirit of God to spread, the love, peace, and joy I receive meanwhile worshipping singing to the lord with praise and gratitude for all he has done in my life living with mental health. I am a living example that in Christ all things are possible. MARK 10:27.
Giselle, thanks for sharing how you have integrated the disciplines into your life and how important they were in your faith development.