The Spiritual Disciplines


Disciplines of Abstinence

To abstain in some degree/time from fulfilling what is normally a legitimate desire [thus counteracting sins of commission].

Solitudefrom companionship, to discover perspective on my normal routine of life

Silencefrom sounds, to discover the place of God (and others) in my life

Fastingfrom food, to discover a dependence upon God for each day’s sustenance

Frugalityfrom self-gratification, to discover the simplicity of my needs before God

Chastityfrom sexuality, to discover my capacity to love the whole of another

Secrecyfrom the need for my good to be acknowledged, to discover humility before and confidence in God alone

Sacrificefrom self-sufficiency, to discover how God meets my needs other than through my own resources


Disciplines of Engagement

To engage in those activities which nurture my growth and development [thus counteracting sins of omission]

Studymeditating on the Word, to discover God at work in my world

Worshipproclaiming the greatness of God, to discover His presence with me

Celebrationenjoying my life and world, to discover God’s goodnesses to me

Servicepromoting the good of others, to discover God’s work in the world

Prayerconversing with God, to discover His strength for His priorities

Fellowshipacting in community, to discover the graces of the Holy Spirit given through others

Confessionsoffering honesty and openness, to discover integrity within the spiritual community created by God for us

Submissionengaging the experience of those over me, to discover the godly support and skill of the wise

* These spiritual disciplines from Willard are not of biblical spiritual disciplines, but of those disciplines which have been practiced through the centuries of Christian disciplines and which have found a place within the practices of Christian spirituality.