There is a big difference between trying to live for God, and living life with God.

I am saved from sin to a life with God.

Salvation is free, but intimacy requires effort.

If we want to be disciples of Jesus, we have to live a disciplined life.

1. Spiritual disciplines are not a barometer of spirituality.

The true indicator of spirituality is growth in the ability to love God and people.

1. Spiritual disciplines are not a barometer of spirituality.

2. Spiritual disciplines are not A way to earn favor with God.

“The spiritual disciplines are wisdom, not righteousness. They are wise practices that train and transform our hearts.”

- James Bryan Smith, The Good and Beautiful God

Spiritual disciplines exist for our sake, not God’s.

Solitude

Silence

Fasting

Frugality

Secrecy

Sacrifice

Study / Meditation

Worship

Service

Prayer

Fellowship

Giving

1. Spiritual disciplines are not a barometer of spirituality.

2. Spiritual disciplines are not A way to earn favor with God.

1. Spiritual disciplines help us connect with God (relationship).

1. Spiritual disciplines are not a barometer of spirituality.

2. Spiritual disciplines are not A way to earn favor with God.

1. Spiritual disciplines help us connect with God (relationship).

2. Spiritual disciplines lead to the “easy yoke” of Jesus.

We do the connecting. God does the perfecting.

In the spiritual life, the word discipline means “the effort to create some space in which God can act.”

- Henri Nouwen

WWJD?

The secret of the easy yoke involves living as he lived in the entirety of his life – adopting his overall life-style. We cannot behave “on the spot” as he did and taught if in the rest of our time we live as everybody else does.

So, by whole life training in the disciplines of the spiritual life, we become inwardly the kinds of persons who naturally (supernaturally of course) do what he said and did.

- Dallas Willard, Spirit of the Disciplines

Training instead of trying

Bailey King – Fasting has become a way I can place my flesh and it’s longings under God’s rule. It has become a form of worship for me, and I would say that I am more aware of God’s constant nearness when I fast.

Janie Harriman – This practice has made a huge difference in my life. James 4:8 "Draw near to God, and He will come near to you,” is such a truth! This time in my mornings has become a rich joy. It never feels like a "to do" list or a requirement. Instead, it has become a treasure, a secret garden, and a refuge. It has grown me and given me new strength, trust, and a nearness to God that I have not experienced before.

Trey Robbins - The Holy Spirit has increasingly prompted me to commit myself to the life of this church. As I have said yes to those promptings, I have found that it is easier and easier to say yes. I think that's due in part to the fact that there are so many people at New Heights in whom it is easy to see Jesus. I know him better, and want to serve him more, because I see him so often in the people within our New Heights community.

Kaycee Marshall – Now I pray anytime I can. It’s my favorite. I just want to dance when I do. I just love to speak to God. I love it so much! Because of this spiritual awakening, I have a curiosity and understanding that I didn’t have before.

P.S: If you want me to go on stage I would be thrilled.

1. You are coming into the presence of the One who loves you the most.

2. Keep on remembering, “I’m not righteous because I do this. I’m not earning points.”

3. Do as you can, not as you cannot.

4. Understand the seasons of your life.

5. Keep in mind that this is a relationship, and relationships are messy and imperfect.

Bailey King – Fasting has become a way I can place my flesh and it’s longings under God’s rule. It has become a form of worship for me, and I would say that I am more aware of God’s constant nearness when I fast.

Janie Harriman – This practice has made a huge difference in my life. James 4:8 "Draw near to God, and He will come near to you,” is such a truth! This time in my mornings has become a rich joy. It never feels like a "to do" list or a requirement. Instead, it has become a treasure, a secret garden, and a refuge. It has grown me and given me new strength, trust, and a nearness to God that I have not experienced before.

Trey Robbins - The Holy Spirit has increasingly prompted me to commit myself to the life of this church. As I have said yes to those promptings, I have found that it is easier and easier to say yes. I think that's due in part to the fact that there are so many people at New Heights in whom it is easy to see Jesus. I know him better, and want to serve him more, because I see him so often in the people within our New Heights community.

Kaycee Marshall – Now I pray anytime I can. It’s my favorite. I just want to dance when I do. I just love to speak to God. I love it so much! Because of this spiritual awakening, I have a curiosity and understanding that I didn’t have before.