Let’s be real: it’s easy to talk about loving Jesus. It’s a whole lot harder to live like we do.
Spiritual disciplines aren’t about performance or perfection, they’re about positioning. They help us realign with God in a world that’s constantly trying to pull us away from Him.
Whether you’re new to the faith or just feeling stuck, these seven disciplines are foundational practices every believer should lean into, not because they make God love us more, but because they help us love Him better.
1. Bible Study (Not Just Reading)
Reading your Bible is good. Studying it? That’s where transformation happens. Deep study helps you understand who God is, what He’s said, and how to live it out.
If you don’t know where to start, here are some posts and episodes that’ll help:
- You’re Overcomplicating Reading the Bible, Here’s How to Fix That
- How I Study the Bible
- Philippians 1:1–2 | Who Paul Wrote To and Why It Matters
- Jesus Is the Bread of Life, Not Just a Provider
2. Prayer (Even When You Don’t Feel Like It)
Prayer isn’t about saying the right words it’s about showing up. Whether it’s a few quiet minutes in the car or a full-blown journal session, prayer keeps your heart open to God’s presence and voice.
Dig deeper with:
3. Fasting (Yes, It’s Still a Thing)
Fasting isn’t about punishment, it’s about prioritization. It’s saying, “God, You matter more than my comfort.” It’s hard, humbling, and absolutely worth it.
If you’re looking for practical ways to surrender and refocus, check out:
The ESV Study Bible is hands down my favorite. It’s packed with context, maps, commentary, and notes that help make Scripture clearer without watering it down.
This is the exact one I use!
It’s deep, solid, and totally worth it.
4. Sabbath and Rest
You’re not God. You’re not limitless. You were created to rest—and not just binge-watch Netflix and call it Sabbath. Real rest resets your soul and reminds you that God’s still in control even when you stop striving.
Start here:
5. Generosity and Service
Spiritual maturity shows up in how we serve. Not just in what we give, but how we show up for people when it’s inconvenient. Serving others is a reflection of Jesus – He didn’t just preach love, He lived it.
For practical encouragement:
6. Confession and Repentance
Confession isn’t shame, it’s freedom. Repentance is what moves us forward. These aren’t one-time moments; they’re rhythms of growth. We don’t just acknowledge sin, we turn from it and run toward Jesus.
You might resonate with:
7. Community and Accountability
Faith was never meant to be solo. Community gives us support, correction, encouragement, and clarity. If church has hurt you, I see you. But isolation is a breeding ground for deception. We need each other.
Press into this with:
- When Church Feels Safer Alone: Learning to Belong Again
- Breaking Free from the Comparison Trap
- Handling our Judgement
Real Talk
You don’t need to be perfect at these. But if you want to grow, you’ve got to be intentional. God’s not grading your performance, He’s inviting you deeper.
If you’re ready to take these disciplines from “someday” to everyday, don’t try to do it alone.
📓 Grab the Free Prayer Journal and start making space to hear from God daily even when life is loud. It’s simple, Scripture-based, and designed to help you show up consistently, not perfectly.
Because spiritual growth doesn’t happen by accident.
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