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A discipline can be defined as "Training or a pattern of behaviour that develops self control or character". Spiritual disciplines enable us to develop characteristics and patterns that eventually lead to growth in our spiritual lives and in our maturity. "They invite us to explore the inner caverns of the spiritual realm", and therefore "call us to move beyond surface living into the depths".
Are the Disciplines of the Christian faith intended only for special people? The answer is no. Surely it is God's intention that all draw near to him. The Psalmist only reflects what every Christian should earnestly desire "As the deer pants for the streams of water, so my soul pants for you Oh God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet my God?" (Psalm 42: 1-2 NIV).
Because the believer constantly struggles with "the slavery of ingrained habits of sin" as reflected in (Romans 7-5 ff), the development of Spiritual Disciplines enables the transforming presence of God's Grace in increasing measure. Richard Foster calls this "sowing to the Spirit". He further suggests: "The Disciplines are God's way of getting us into the ground; they put us where he can work within us and transform us". "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness they shall be filled."
What then are the Disciplines that merit contemplation? What then are these patterns of behaviour, which will by inner transformation and not external practise bring change in life and witness? I list the following for consideration recognising that the list is not complete, they are: Meditation, Prayer, Fasting and Study.
MEDITATION: To borrow a phrase, In a world of "much-ness" and "many-ness", there is the need to pause and reflect. Carl Jung, a noted psychiatrist, is credited as saying, "Hurry is not of the Devil, it is the Devil". Meditation is not foreign to the scriptures (Genesis 24: 63; Psalm 63: 6; 1 1 9: 1 48; 1: 2). Christian meditation is also different from other forms of meditation associated with other religions - one seeks to empty the mind and so create detachment, "merging with Cosmic Mind", the other empties the mind in order to fill it. Thomas Merton argues that Christian Meditation is contemplation about life that we may be better able to live it.
We have to pray forthe desire and the grace to meditate and there are some things that will enhance the experience. These are namely:
I .A place, quiet and free from interruption where the practice of solitude can also be developed. (Some suggest solitude as a separate discipline).
2. A posture, one should be relaxed allowing for tension to be released. The ultimate intent is to focus body, soul and spirit on God that we might hear. Considering the beauty of creation is always a good place to begin.
PRAYER: "Real prayer is life creating and life changing... To pray is to change. Prayer is the central avenue God uses to transform us." (Richard Foster) If we agree with this statement then the importance of this discipline cannot be overemphasised. The development of this discipline implies a willingness on our part to learn, a willingness to study the scriptures on the topic of prayer, to study the prayers recorded in the scriptures, to talk with those whom we believe have an effective and powerful prayer life and to be positive in our approach to prayer. P. T. Forsyte said, "Prayer is to religion what original research is to science."
It
must be noted that one sign of a developing prayer life is the willingness,
the compassion, the seeking after guidance as we learn to pray for others
i.e. intercession. We begin to pray by first listening to God:
"A man prayed, and at first he thought that prayer was talking. But
he become more and more quiet until in the end he realised that prayer
is listening"
(Soren Kierkegoord).
FASTING: Fasting has often been referred to as the neglected Discipline even more so in a world of fast foods and the tendency to excesses. It is the abstaining from food for a period of time for spiritual purposes. To be more precise all forms of food, solid and liquid, but not water, except in the case of an "absolute fast" where not even water is taken. Fasting is a private matter between the believer and God, though there is the time for corporate or public fasts. Although there is no clear command in the scriptures with regards to the practise of fasting, it is very clear that our Lord practised fasting as a way of life (Matthew 6: 16, 9: 15). Fasting should not be considered to be a means to an end, but a way by which we diligently seek the presence of God. God questioned the people in Zechariah's day as to their intent (7: 5). "More than any other single discipline, fasting reveals the things that control us. This is a wonderful benefit to the true disciple who longs to be transforr@ed into the image of Jesus Christ".
STUDY:
Study involves observation, reflection, and analysis that one might learn; "Study to show yourself approved". Four steps are suggested in this Discipline:
1. Repetition ingraining habits of thought.
2. Concentration focusing on that which is being studied.
3. Comprehension developing insight and discernment.
A. Reflection understanding what has been discerned and considering its implications.
The purpose of the Christian Discipline of study is not just to acquire knowledge, but also to know God (John 17: 3). The principal book of study for the Christian is the scriptures, supported by commentaries and devotionals. Psalms I 1 9 emphasises the importance of knowing the Word. A place of study, away from distractions and a regular schedule of study are of critical importance, without either of these not much will be achieved.
| PORTMORE
UNITED CHURCH |