Spiritual Rhythms

 1. Why are spiritual rhythms a problem?  “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6

A. We do not understand spiritual rhythms. Spiritual rhythms are intentional practices that consistently put ourselves in the presence of Jesus!                                                             

B. We are operating in confusion rather than clarity.    “...continue to work out your salvation with fear and        trembling...” Philippians 2:12b

2. We have not made spiritual rhythms a priority.  “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33                  

A. Time is a precious commodity and often busyness wins the day.                                                                                          

B. Wrongly elevate times and approaches over results. 3. We have no workable plan.  “When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns.” Matthew 14:12                                                                 

A. It begins with a clear plan:                                                      

*It should be your personal plan. (What are you trying to  accomplish?)                                                                                        

*It should begin with prayer. (What would God have you do?) 

*It needs to be possible. (Don’t overestimate your ability & time)                                                                                                 

*It should be profitable. (It needs to be evaluated)

4. Here is an example of my process.  “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ...” 

A. My plan is to spend time in Gods word.                       

Choose a plan. Try different approaches. Work your plan - what worked best for me was a slow intentional approach. I read a few verses or paragraphs. Then I ask myself questions.