You’ve probably noticed that there can be a lot of different meanings behind the word “spiritual”. In today’s culture it can mean different things to different people. For example, to a Christian the word “spiritual” always refers to something in connection with God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, recognizing that there is what is often called an “unseen realm” beyond this life. For others it might mean a realm of power that they believe they can control by thought or incantation. Many people struggle with the concept, having a hard time coming up with an explanation for something that they believe exists but find it hard to put into words.

I want to emphasize that I recognize lots of areas of division and disagreement around the definition of this concept. However, in the name of this practice I have chosen to define my position: Life Choices Christian Counseling and Life Coaching. Hence, when I speak or write about spirituality my basis is the Bible and my Christian faith which springs from it.

So, since I have written in the last two posts about developing new disciplines and routines I want to be sure to include an encouragement to you to be aware of your spiritual life as well as your physical life, your financial life, your relational life, etc. There are several aspects of spiritual disciplines that I hope you will consider. These will include:

• Salvation. The Bible speaks of the need for salvation in Ephesians 2.8-9, John 3.16 and others. This is the first and most essential element of Christian spirituality. There are often questions about salvation which I am more than happy to discuss with you. You can also contact a local church pastor for information.
• Prayer. Jesus taught the importance of prayer (Matt. 7.7-8). The author of the Book of Hebrews wrote of prayer (Hebrews 4.16). The value of prayer isn’t asking for things and hoping God comes through! Prayer is conversation with the Creator of the universe. This is so much more than asking for things. Prayer involves worship and dialogue with God about our needs as well as those of others we know.
• Bible reading and memorization. The Bible has been called God’s love letter to the church. I’m not sure I would always characterize it as such because there is much in the Bible that requires understanding before it comes close to feeling like a love letter! However, let me emphasize that reading the Bible is absolutely essential if you want to know God and gain understanding of His will for your life. Memorizing verses or passages of the Bible will help keep it fresh in your mind.
• Fellowship with other Christians. In other words, going to church. I have heard it said that you can be a Christian without going to church. I have to agree. Salvation doesn’t only happen within the four walls of a church. But when the Bible clearly teaches the value of being with other believers (Hebrews 10.24-25) it is hard to justify trying to live a solitary Christian life. Being with others Christians adds fullness to worship and provides opportunities for learning and serving that we would otherwise miss if lived out alone.

There are lots of aspects of living the Christian life that could be covered here. The point isn’t to list every single point of Christian life. My point is to encourage you in the planning of your own spiritual disciplines. Do you read the Bible routinely? What does prayer mean to you? Even if you do go to church, would you truly call it fellowship?

I know that might come across as too “preachy”, but I can’t just turn loose of 25 years of being a Pastor. Two things are important here. Salvation and Spiritual Growth. It takes grace to be saved and it takes discipline to grow. I hope that you will be laser-focused on both and that your goals for the coming months and years will include the things of God.

As always, contact me for more information about this and other topics of interest and concern. Life Choices Christian Counseling and Life Coaching is here for you.

Chuck Phillips, Licensed Christian Pastoral Counselor, N.C.C.A. Board Certified Advanced Christian Life Coach, I.B.C.C.

LifeChoicesCLC.Com LifeChoicesCLC@gmail.com 573-280-5093