Introduction to Spiritual Exercises

“Working Out” our Salvation

For the most part, our bodies do not become what they are by accident. Our genes, diet, and activities determine our physical condition.

1. Which of these 3 do you consider most formative?

2. Is it possible to improve your physical condition?

3. What would you do to improve in this area?


Similarly, our hearts do not become what they are by accident. Our fallen nature, use of resources, and patterns of life determine our spiritual condition.

1. Which of these 3 do you consider most formative?

2. Is it possible to improve your spiritual condition?

3. What would you do to improve in this area?


Just like there are many different diet methods and many different types of exercise, there are also various ways to get into a strong spiritual state. These methods are called spiritual disciplines. Over the next four weeks we’ll be discussing various spiritual disciplines. Our goal will be for each of us to commit to a number of routine practices in an effort to become more like Christ.
A List of Possible Spiritual Disciplines
Celebration, Gratitude, Communion, Rule of Life, Sabbath, Worship, Contemplation, Examen, Journaling, Rest, Retreat, Simplicity, Unplugging, Secret Service, Silence, Solitude, Submission, Accountability, Small Group, Hospitality, Mentoring, Service, Unity, Witness, Bible Study, Meditation, Memorization, Earth Care, Compassion, Stewardship, Fasting, Fixed Hour Prayer, Conversational Prayer, Centering Prayer, Intercessory Prayer, Prayer Partners, Praying Scripture, Prayer Walking, etc

We’ll Discuss Prayer Disciplines

We’ll Discuss Bible Disciplines

We’ll Discuss Social Disciplines

For now, make a list of the things that you are intentionally doing to become more like Christ:





Begin to think about what spiritual disciplines you will add to your life. This must be an intentional process. People don’t become like Christ by accident, but by dedication and commitment. At the end of this series I’ll be sharing with you a list of small but significant steps I’ll be taking in this process. I invite you to create and share such a list too.