Surrendering our will to God’s will moves us toward a greater understanding of our fallen nature, which left unchecked can be a distraction to what God desires for us. By beginning to decide to do the things we know are God’s will for us, our fleshly struggles will rise to the surface. This is an opportunity to recognize and take control of the thoughts and desires that come from our own will. The practice of spiritual disciplines can then provide opportunities for the Word and the Spirit to move us more intentionally from surrender to abandonment, from abandonment to contentment, and from contentment towards greater participation in God’s will.
By practicing the spiritual disciplines of solitude, prayer, confession, service, frugality, fasting, worship, meditation and others, we create space for God to reveal where we may be hiding hypocrisy, pride, or malice. A time of solitude, confession (truth-telling), or fasting will allow us to see Jesus and ourselves with greater clarity. This can lead us to love others differently, address underlying feelings of discontent or being judgmental, or simply allow take captive our own destructive thoughts. Our practice of the spiritual disciples can teach us to practice the presence of God throughout the day, to better understand His will for our lives, and to better represent His Kingdom.
Take some time to ask God what sort of spiritual discipline He would desire for you. Which discipline is He asking you to step into, knowing the fruit He wants to bear in your life. Fruit that will not only energize you, but will also be a gift for the community He’s placed you in.
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