Spiritual Disciplines ~ A Reminder of Why

Today, we continue to emphasize the importance of applying God’s Word in our lives, citing James 1:22–25 to highlight that being doers and not merely hearers leads to true transformation. By looking then to Hosea 10:12-13, we will be encouraged to engage deeply with all we discussed last year with the inward spiritual disciplines, such as prayer and meditation, to cultivate a genuine relationship with God, preparing our hearts for outward expressions of faith in the outward disciplines. We will introduce the upcoming focus on outward disciplines and how we are all called to do something. True faith must manifest positively through us and the world, urging everyone to reflect on their spiritual growth and commitment to be more like Christ, in conclusion, encouraging us to consider what they are actively sowing in their life of faith and how they can break up the hard ground in their hearts to allow God’s righteousness to flourish within them.

Recording

((Audio Only))

Study Guide

1 – What does it mean to be a ‘doer of the Word’ as mentioned in James 1:22-25, and why is this idea important for our spiritual growth?
– Application: Can you think of a time when you acted on something you learned from the Bible? How did that impact your life or the lives of others around you?

2 – How do the inward disciplines, like prayer and meditation, prepare us for the outward disciplines discussed in the sermon?
– Application: Which inward discipline do you feel you can strengthen in your life this week, and how could that lead to more impactful outward actions?

3 – What does the phrase ‘break up your fallow ground’ from Hosea 10:12 mean in the context of your spiritual life?
– Application: What ‘fallow ground’ might you need to address in your own life to allow for more spiritual growth?

4 – In what ways do you think practicing spiritual disciplines can help us live out the greatest commandments to love God and others?
– Application: How can you incorporate an act of love towards someone else in your daily life based on what you are learning?

5 – Reflect on the idea that ‘you will reap what you sow’ from Hosea. How does this principle apply to your everyday actions and decisions?
– Application:  Can you identify a specific area in your life where you might be sowing iniquity? What positive action can you take to change that this week?

Scripture References

James 1:22-25
Romans 12:1-2
Matthew 5:6
James 2:17
Hosea 10:12-13
Mark 4:26-27
Matthew 22:37-40
1 John 4:19