š±Seed šNeutral š”Consideration
Importance: 10%
The Big Idea
General Notes about various spiritual disciplines
Silence and Solitude
ā¢ Definition: Intentionally withdrawing from noise, distractions, and social interaction to be alone with God. ā¢ Purpose: To foster a deeper awareness of Godās presence, listen to His voice, and rest in His love. It creates space to process emotions and hear God amidst the busyness of life.
Sabbath
ā¢ Definition: A weekly day of rest and worship modeled after Godās rhythm in creation. ā¢ Purpose: To cease from work, delight in God, enjoy creation, and experience renewal. Itās a countercultural act of trust in Godās provision and a rhythm of grace.
Prayer
ā¢ Definition: A conversational and relational practice of speaking to and listening to God. ā¢ Purpose: To develop intimacy with God, align our hearts with His will, and intercede for others. Prayer helps cultivate dependence and surrender.
Fasting
ā¢ Definition: Abstaining from food or other pleasures for a spiritual purpose. ā¢ Purpose: To weaken the flesh, strengthen reliance on God, and cultivate spiritual hunger. Fasting trains us to say no to lesser desires in pursuit of a greater connection with God.
Scripture
ā¢ Definition: Engaging with the Bible through reading, study, meditation, and memorization. ā¢ Purpose: To immerse ourselves in Godās truth, be shaped by His Word, and grow in wisdom and obedience. Itās a foundation for knowing Godās character and living His way.
Community
ā¢ Definition: Doing life with other followers of Jesus in deep, intentional relationships. ā¢ Purpose: To practice love, accountability, confession, and encouragement in a supportive environment. Community reminds us that spiritual growth happens in relationships, not isolation.
Simplicity
ā¢ Definition: Living with fewer possessions and distractions to focus on what truly matters. ā¢ Purpose: To break free from materialism, greed, and busyness, enabling greater focus on Godās kingdom. Simplicity cultivates gratitude and generosity.
Generosity
ā¢ Definition: Giving freely of time, resources, and finances for the good of others and the glory of God. ā¢ Purpose: To reflect Godās generous nature, break the hold of greed, and participate in His mission of blessing others. Generosity helps align our hearts with kingdom values.
Hospitality
ā¢ Definition: Welcoming others into your home or life with love and care. ā¢ Purpose: To create space for community, share Godās love tangibly, and demonstrate His inclusive nature. Itās a way to practice service and connection.
Celebration
ā¢ Definition: Practicing joy and gratitude by recognizing Godās goodness in life. ā¢ Purpose: To cultivate a heart of worship, foster thankfulness, and counteract negativity and despair. Celebration reorients us to the joy of salvation and Godās blessings.
Resources Recommended by Anthony Celia
Ministries
Practicing the Way: www.practicingtheway.org Transforming Center: transformingcenter.org
Books/Authors
Devotional Classics Edited by Richard J. Foster and James Bryan Smith Anything by Henri Nouwen
Celebration of the Disciplines by Richard J. Foster The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard The Life Youāve Always Wanted: Spiritual Disciplines for Ordinary People by John Ortberg Invitation to Solitude and Silence by Ruth Haley Barton Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer The Divine Hours - Daily Prayer Books The Contemplative Pastor by Eugene Peterson