Spiritual Disciplines
A collection of resources to help you practice spiritual disciplines individually and as part of a group
posted 9/02/2008
| Topics: | Abundant life, Confession, Contemplation, Journaling, Maturity, Prayer, Spiritual disciplines, Spiritual formation, Spiritual growth |
| Filters: | Group Leader, Pastor, Train |
| Purpose: | Discipleship |
| References: |  |
| Date Added: | September 02, 2008 |
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"Small Groups in Depth" collections are assembled by the editors of SmallGroups.com as a method of continuing education for people participating in small-groups ministry. Each collection offers step-by-step training on a specific ministry skill or practice. Individuals may read through each resource on their own as a method of self improvement, or may customize the articles, discussion questions, assessments, and tools as a means of training others.
Overview | Questions | Tools | Evaluation | Next Steps
OverviewMany people are wannabe golfers. They own a set of clubs, they hit the driving range from time to time, and they understand the basic rules of the game. They might even make it out to an actual golf course once or twice a year. But most wannabes view "true" golfers as people who play the game at least several times a month. True golfers own special equipment to hone their skills: golf shoes, hybrid clubs, laser range finders, and so on. Maybe they even have a subscription to Golf magazine.
Many Christians think of the spiritual disciplines in similar terms. We think that practices like fasting, confession, and journaling are for "true" Christians—people who have the time and spiritual maturity to connect deeply with God. But the reality is that spiritual disciplines are specially designed for spiritual wannabes. They're what give us the focus and foundation necessary for a deeper relationship with Christ.
Could you use a little spiritual focus right now? Could your group members? If so, check out the resources highlighted on this page. They really can help you connect with God in a deeper and more meaningful way, and they can help your group members do the same.
QuestionsWhether improving your skills individually or training other people, use these discussion questions to introduce the practice of spiritual disciplines.
- What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the term spiritual disciplines? Why?
- What has been your experience with spiritual disciplines in the past? What has been positive? What has been negative or apathetic?
- Make a list of all the spiritual disciplines you can think of. Which ones are most appealing to you? Which ones seem the most scary or unreasonable? Why?
- What disciplines would you like to start practicing as an individual? What will it take for you to get started?
- What disciplines can you start practicing in your group?
The resources below provide expert advice and practical tips for incorporating the spiritual disciplines into your personal and group life. They have been divided into three stages to help you progress through the training at the pace you choose.
Stage 1 contains basic introductions to a variety of spiritual disciplines. Stage 2 addresses how those skills can be used in a group setting. And Stage 3 highlights our premium and downloadable content, which offers the most in-depth look at the practice of spiritual disciplines.
Stage One-
Spiritual Disciplines for People in Ministry
Why it's so important to nurture spiritual disciplines that are unconnected to "church work"
By Lynne M. Baab -
Scripture Memory: A Missing Discipline
Six benefits of hiding God's Word in your heart
By Jason Hayes -
Lectio Divina and Contemplative Prayer in Small Groups
A practical discussion on two countercultural methods of spiritual growth
By Adele Calhoun -
Darryl's Dilemma: Confession
How do you start confession in your small groups?
By the Small Group Network Community -
Coming Forth with Lazarus
Understanding the Sabbath in light of God's sovereignty
By Mark Buchanan
Pursuing Spiritual Formation (12 week course)
This 12-session plan will help you think realistically and practically about how to grow spiritually.
The Gospels: How Not to Be a Pharisee (6 week course)
Discover Biblical insight on how we can use all of our resources - time, talents, gifts and finances - for the glory of God.see more downloads
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