The world is full of distractions, and many things are vying for our attention; work, bills, children, spouses, gadgets, and many more are gradually taking center stage in the hearts of many believers. It is easy for Christians to drift away from intimacy with God.
Yet, the Bible calls every believer to grow in faith, maturity, and obedience. One of the most effective ways to do this is by practicing spiritual disciplines—intentional habits that draw us closer to God and shape us into the image of Christ.
“And in my own pastoral and personal Christian experience, I can say that I’ve never known a man or woman who came to spiritual maturity except through discipline. Godliness comes through discipline.”
― Donald S. Whitney, Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life
What Are Spiritual Disciplines?
Spiritual disciplines are godly practices based on the Scripture that help believers cultivate a deeper relationship with God, strengthen their faith, and live according to His Word. Spiritual disciplines in the Bible are aimed at bringing us closer to God.
Spiritual disciplines are not done to earn salvation – salvation is by grace and through the blood of Jesus, which restored us to God (Ephesians 2:8-9). They help us grow in godliness, weaken the flesh and become more like God.
Spiritual disciplines are like physical disciplines — just as physical exercise strengthens the body, spiritual disciplines strengthen the Spirit.
Why Christians should practice spiritual discipline
Many Christians do not understand the need for spiritual discipline. Some believers say, “Jesus did everything on the cross, why do I have to discipline myself to receive what Jesus has given to me?” Here are reasons why spiritual discipline is vital for every Christian.
1. They help us to know God intimately
Every act of spiritual discipline brings us closer to God. As we train our Spirit to become stronger, we have a closer relationship with God and our spiritual sensitivity increases.
2. They transform our hearts and minds
Spiritual disciplines are very effective in transforming and renewing our minds. Actions like studying the Scripture help to train our mind to believe and respond to God’s truth (Romans 12:2)
3. They enable us to bear Spiritual fruits
The fruit on a tree announces the species or breed of the tree; the same is true for believers. Our fruit reveals whether we truly love and honour God; participating in spiritual activities helps us bear the fruits of the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22–23).
4. They strengthen our faith in times of trials
How you react to trials and life troubles reflects your faith. Spiritual discipline helps to strengthen our Spirit in times of trials, enabling us to persevere through difficult times with grace. (Matthew 7:24–25).
“The legalistic heart says, ‘I will do this thing to gain merit with God.’ The disciplined heart says, ‘I will do this thing because I love God and want to please Him.’”
-Kent Hughes, Disciplines of a Godly Man. Crossway. Kindle Edition.
11 Key Spiritual Disciplines According to the Bible
The Bible contains many acts of spiritual disciplines. Let us examine some of these spiritual disciplines and understand how we can apply them to our daily lives.
1. Prayer
Ever wondered why you find it difficult to pray for long hours without your mind wandering? Prayer is our direct communication with God. Jesus modelled prayer throughout His life (Luke 5:16), and the Bible encourages us to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Prayer is an essential spiritual discipline; therefore, like physical exercise, you need to pray consistently to discipline yourself spiritually. Through prayer, we express reliance on God, seek His guidance, and intercede for others.
Helpful Tip: Establish a daily prayer routine and commit to following it. Incorporate praying in tongues, and you can also set an alarm to remind you to pray for your designated duration.
2. Studying and Meditating on Scripture
The Word of God is our spiritual nourishment. Joshua 1:8 instructs us to “meditate on it day and night” so we may obey it, do what it says and have good success.
Jesus Himself quoted Scripture during temptation (Matthew 4:1–11). Meditating on the Word implies that you keep thinking about the words you have read until they make sense to you through the help of the Holy Spirit.
Helpful Tip: Use a study plan or devotional that helps you connect Scripture with daily life. There are also websites and Bible apps that enable you to do this electronically or on the go.
3. Worship
True worship is not limited to singing on Sunday; it is a lifestyle of honouring God in all we do (Romans 12:1). Ask yourself a simple question before you take any action: “Will this act glorify God?”
Worship focuses our hearts on God’s greatness, honouring him and reminding us that He alone deserves our praise.
Helpful Tip: Create a personal playlist of worship songs that lift your Spirit and help you focus on God daily. Make a deliberate decision to stop listening to ungodly songs.
4. Fasting
Fasting is the voluntary abstention from food (or other things) to focus on God. Jesus encouraged His followers to fast, saying, “When you fast…” (Matthew 6:16–18).
Fasting is a discipline of humility, consecration, self-control, and spiritual clarity. It helps to shift your focus from your idols to God, thereby enhancing your spiritual sensitivity.
There are various kinds of fasts, including fasting from food, social media, sex, or anything else that is important to you.
Helpful Tip: Start with short fasts (6–12 hours) as you pray for specific needs or spiritual growth. Don’t be discouraged if you can’t fast as long as you want initially; keep trying, and you will achieve more than you expected.
5. Fellowship
Christianity is not a solo journey. The early believers devoted themselves to fellowship (Acts 2:42). Through fellowship, we encourage, correct, and strengthen one another in love (Hebrews 10:24–25).
Christians often become discouraged and stop fellowshipping with others due to misunderstandings, arguments, or selfishness. We must never forget that people will always act like humans, prone to errors. Nobody is perfect; therefore, don’t ruin your fellowship with others. Remember, Heaven is the goal!
Helpful Tip: Prayerfully join a small group, Bible study, or church community that helps you grow.
6. Serve Others
Jesus said He came “not to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45). Serving others—whether in church, community, or everyday life—reflects God’s love and humility.
Serving others keeps us humble and understanding of others’ needs, weaknesses, and struggles. Serving others doesn’t make you a doormat or belittle you; it’s a way to show kindness and compassion. It only shows your eagerness and commitment to help and spread the love of Christ.
Helpful Tip: Discover ways to utilise your gifts (Romans 12:6–8) to bless others consistently. This could be within your community, church, and workplace.
7. Giving and Generosity
Giving is an act of worship and a demonstration of trust. Proverbs 3:9 says, “Honour the Lord with your wealth.” Generosity reflects God’s nature and frees us from the grip of materialism.
God loves a cheerful giver; therefore, when you give, you make God happy with you.
Helpful Tip: Set aside a percentage of your income for God’s work and for helping those in need.
8. Journaling, Silence and Solitude
The distractions of this world can often blind us and prevent us from taking time to be alone. In our noisy world, silence and solitude are rare but powerful disciplines.
Jesus often withdrew to quiet places to pray (Mark 1:35). Solitude helps us hear God’s voice more clearly and rest in His presence. It is essential always to withdraw and spend time alone to listen to God and reflect.
This period of reflection isn’t because of depression or sadness, but a time to ask yourself deep questions and inquire of the lord whilst taking notes.
Helpful Tip: Schedule “quiet time” daily—no phone, no noise—just you and God. Schedule time quarterly for deep and sober reflection.
9. Confession and Repentance
God sees us and knows when we have gone wrong, but he is still waiting for us to confess our sins and repent wholeheartedly. When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden, God knew they had sinned and gave them a chance to confess, but they didn’t; they instead passed the blame.
Confession keeps our relationship with God pure and intact. It shows that we honour God, and repentance helps us to remain sensitive and not give in to sin again.
1 John 1:9 promises that “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.”
Regular repentance softens our hearts and restores spiritual health.
Helpful Tip: End each day by asking God to reveal areas where you need forgiveness or change.
10. Evangelism and Witness
Sharing the gospel is both a command and a privilege (Matthew 28:19–20). The Scripture emphasises that “how beautiful are the feet of those who share the gospel of peace”. Sharing the gospel is very important, and technology has enabled you to share it worldwide.
Evangelism strengthens your faith and spreads God’s kingdom. It makes you self-aware and keeps you connected to God.
Helpful Tip: Pray for opportunities to share your faith naturally in conversations or through your lifestyle.
11. Obedience to God
Spiritually disciplined Christians need to be obedient to God. Obedience to God is not negotiable when it comes to discipline.
Obedience is better than sacrifice, and God wants his children to obey him. He has beautiful plans for you, and He will bring you to a desired end; therefore, we must obey Him.
Helpful Tip: Make a habit of obeying God’s choices and words to you. Obedience begins with doing the little things God commands you to do regularly.
“The final joy in any truly Christian discipline or practice or rhythm of life is, in the words of the apostle, ‘the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord’” (Phil. 3:8).
David Mathis, Habits of Grace (p. 30). Crossway. Kindle Edition.
5 Benefits of Spiritual Discipline
Christians greatly benefit from being spiritually disciplined. Here are five benefits of being spiritually disciplined.
1. It produces a deep relationship with God that cannot be expressed with words. Christians who are spiritually disciplined have an intimate relationship with God. God reveals secrets and has intimate discussions with them, making them his beloved child. To achieve spiritual maturity and deepen your fellowship with God, incorporate spiritual disciplines into your lifestyle. (James 4:8)
2. It builds spiritual strength and stamina. A spiritually disciplined believer possesses the strength and stamina to endure times of trial and temptation. He is like a tree planted by the riverside that brings forth its fruit in due season (Psalm 1:2-3).
3. It brings transformation of character. The more we make an effort to be closer to God, the more we are transformed into His image and likeness (2 Corinthians 3:18). If you are a truly spiritually disciplined Christian, your character and choices will be transformed to align with God’s.
4. Spiritual discipline brings clarity of purpose and direction. Spiritual discipline tunes our hearts to God’s guidance, helping us discern His will (Romans 12:2). The Bible implies that “his word is a light to our feet…”. Staying close to God brings us on his path.
5. Spiritually disciplined Christians have daily peace and Joy. A disciplined life produces peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:6–7) and joy in every circumstance. This joy comes from a place of confidence and hope in God’s power, because they have continually experienced God.
Biblical Examples of People With/Without Spiritual Discipline
The Bible serves as our guide in every area of our lives, and spiritual discipline is not left out. There are biblical characters who were spiritually disciplined, and those who weren’t; we can learn from them.
5 Biblical Examples of People Who Lacked Spiritual Discipline
1. Samson (Judges 13–16)
Samson was a destined child who was the answer to his parent’ and nation’s prayer. Samson lacked three kinds of discipline: parental discipline, personal discipline, and spiritual discipline, which ultimately led to his downfall.
Samson’s lack of self-control and disregard for God’s instructions led to his downfall. Despite his strength, he lacked spiritual focus.
He became his enemies’ object of amusement, lost his eyes and his life because of his choices.
2. King Saul (1 Samuel 13–15)
Saul’s impatience and disobedience revealed his lack of discipline in waiting for God’s timing, ultimately costing him his kingship.
Saul was people-centric; he prioritised pleasing people over pleasing God, which angered God. His lack of repentance is also evident because he never truly repented for the wrong choices he made, which ultimately led to his downfall.
3. Demas (2 Timothy 4:10)
Once a ministry companion of Paul, Demas abandoned the faith because he “loved this present world” more than God. Love of the world brings eternal damnation.
The things of the world can never satisfy; therefore, we should never be attracted to them.
4. The Israelites in the Wilderness (Numbers 14)
Their constant complaining, disobedience, and unbelief prevented them from entering the Promised Land.
The Israelites were not disciplined, and they lacked reverence for God.
5. Eli’s Sons – Hophni and Phinehas (1 Samuel 2:12–17)
As priests, they dishonoured God through corruption and immorality, showing spiritual negligence. They dishonoured the women in the temple and took things meant for God for themselves.
Their lack of discipline resulted in their death and the alienation of their lineage from the priesthood.
5 Biblical Examples of People Who Practiced Spiritual Discipline
1. Daniel (Daniel 6:10)
Daniel prayed three times daily, even when threatened with death. His consistency in prayer and devotion exemplifies proper spiritual discipline.
Daniel showed true devotion to God by standing out in a foreign land with a different culture and pagan gods. He stood out excellently and was preferred by five kings.
He was spiritually disciplined to the point that his enemies found no fault in him, except to set a trap for him, using his faith as bait.
2. David (Psalm 63:1–8)
David is one of my favourite biblical characters with both good and bad traits. His act of spiritual discipline, in terms of worship, obedience, prayer, and devotion to God, is exemplary.
David practiced worship, repentance, and meditation on God’s Word, developing a heart that sought after God. After he sinned against God, he confessed his sins and repented, showing his deep love and respect for God.
3. Jesus Christ (Luke 4:1–13, Mark 1:35)
Jesus is our perfect example of spiritual discipline. He was spiritually disciplined in every way. Jesus fasted, prayed, studied Scripture, and lived in complete obedience to the Father—our perfect model of discipline.
He also encourages us to follow his footsteps, as he has given us the grace to be like him.
4. Paul the Apostle (1 Corinthians 9:27)
Apostle Paul lived a life of spiritual discipline through prayer, Bible study, evangelism, and self-control, faithfully fulfilling his mission.
5. Mary of Bethany (Luke 10:38–42)
Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet, listening to His words—a beautiful example of prioritising spiritual growth over worldly distractions.
How to Become Spiritually Disciplined
Becoming spiritually disciplined is a marathon and not a sprint. The best part is that we have the Holy Spirit to guide us on this path.
Building a spiritually disciplined life involves taking little steps of faith, doing what God commands in the Scripture. Start small and do not be discouraged.
Spiritual disciplines, such as studying the Word, prayer, and regular quiet time, require consistency. Set a regular time to do these exercises, and it will become an integral part of your day.
Accountability is crucial in spiritual disciplines. You can partner with a friend or mentor to help you on your journey to build great spiritual discipline.
Above all, rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and this is why it is essential to hear from God and understand how He speaks to you. Spiritual discipline without the guidance of the Holy Spirit can lead to burnout and a lack of wisdom.
Depend on God’s strength, not your willpower.
Final Thoughts
Spiritual disciplines are the tools that shape us into faithful, fruitful followers of Jesus. They help us grow stronger spiritually, develop godly character, and keep our focus on what truly matters—loving God and loving others.
Begin today. Start with prayer, open your Bible, and commit to walking closely with God. The journey of discipline is not about perfection—it’s about progress in the presence of the One who loves you most.
Key Scriptures to Remember:
- 1 Timothy 4:7–8
- Joshua 1:8
- Matthew 6:6, Matthew 6:16–18
- Romans 12:1–2
- 1 Thessalonians 5:17
- Hebrews 10:24–25
- James 4:8
- Philippians 4:6–7
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