Are You Making Time for What Truly Matters?

Spirituality is my #1 Pillar for a reason. It’s no secret that it’s the foundation for everything I do. Spiritual Disciplines have the power to transform us by deepening our connection with God. When we commit to spiritual practices intentionally, our faith is strengthened, and our whole lives are focused on what matters most.    

Let’s dive into how these simple yet powerful practices can help you!

What are Spiritual Disciplines?

Spiritual disciplines are practices or activities that deepen our relationship with God. They are more than just religious traditions; instead, they cultivate a deep connection to our Creator like you would any relationship that matters to you.

How Do Spiritual Disciplines Improve Your Life?

Habits like prayer, meditation, scripture study, and acts of service bring meaning and fulfillment into our lives. The disciplines offer benefits across multiple areas:

1. Build Inner Peace and Calm: Spiritual disciplines can calm the mind, boost inner peace, and reduce stress and anxiety.
2. Increase Awareness: Mindfulness and self-awareness help us become more in tune with our thoughts, emotions, and actions.
3. Strengthen Faith: Spending time in God’s presence and His word can strengthen our faith and relationship with God.
4. Promote Gratitude: We learn to be grateful and appreciate life’s blessings, leading to a more positive outlook and increased happiness.
5. Improve Relationships: When we become more compassionate, empathetic, and forgiving, we improve relationships with ourselves and others.
6. Build Wisdom: Studying the Bible and listening to teachings from bible-based teachers provides Godly counsel for daily living.
7. Create a Sense of Purpose: We connect with our values, beliefs, and sense of purpose, giving us a deeper meaning to life and a sense of fulfillment.
8. Spark Personal Growth: As we grow and transform, our life is more meaningful and fulfilling. 

Do Small Efforts Reap Big Rewards? 

Remember, leading Godly lives requires us to live in connection with God.  It is impossible to lead a life pleasing to God on our strength.   From the time we wake to the time we go to bed, there are countless opportunities to engage in activities that positively feed our spirit and enhance our connection to God.

Try starting your day with moments of prayer and reflection.  Find pockets of stillness in your workday.  How can you add acts of kindness and service into your life?  Each action, no matter how small, can become a sacred practice that enriches your life and the lives of those around you.

Ways to practice the disciplines:

1. Prayer: Communicating with God through spoken or silent prayer to give thanks, seek guidance, and ask for help.
2. Meditation: Intentionally focusing on God’s presence and His word to internalize and understand its more profound meaning and application in daily life.
3. Scripture Study: Studying the Bible to gain insight, wisdom, and guidance for daily living.
4. Fasting: Temporarily abstaining from food or certain activities as a form of discipline deepens our connection to God and builds self-discipline.
5. Service: Charity to others through compassion, kindness, and selflessness.
6. Sabbath Rest: Setting aside time for rest, reflection, and renewal.
7. Journaling: Reflecting on our thoughts, feelings, and experiences through writing, self-discovery, introspection, and spiritual growth.
8. Gratitude Practice: Growing our attitude of gratitude by regularly expressing thanks for blessings, experiences, and relationships in our lives.
9. Community: Participating in spiritual communities, congregations, or groups for fellowship, support, and shared religious experiences.

You can experience growth, connection, and fulfillment by adding these spiritual disciplines to your life.

My Challenge to You  

Find practical ways to add spiritual disciplines into your life.  What impact do you think you’ll experience?  Consider recording your practice and benefits in a journal.  

God bless,

Dr. Deepa