The 12 Spiritual Disciplines
NEHEMIAH WEEKLY DEVOTIONAL
Do you know that the words disciple and discipline come from the same root word?
How disciplined are you?
Do you know the spiritual disciplines that a disciple must model?
| On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness [keeping yourself spiritually fit]. For physical training is of some value, but godliness (spiritual training) is of value in everything and in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and for the life to come. – 1 Timothy 4:7-8 (AMP) |
The 12 Spiritual Disciplines
Spiritual disciplines are tools that help us to maintain a close connection to Christ, which in turn allows us to access the fullness of our inheritance in Him – overflowing, abundant spiritual life and all the provision that is unlocked through that overflow. Spiritual disciplines involve training ourselves in the ways of the LORD – it is “training for godliness” and should be at the heart of every Christian’s walk with God.
It is interesting to note that the root word for “disciple” and “discipline” is the same. Nobody arrives at
a place of spiritual discipline without being intentional about it – it does not happen by accident.
Conversely, once attained, if spiritual discipline is not maintained, our spirit will become weak, which in turn will affect our mental and physical well-being.
Several examples of spiritual discipline are demonstrated by leaders in the Bible, including prayer, fasting, and studying Scripture. While there is no definitive list, there were at least twelve spiritual disciplines that were practiced by Jesus and prescribed for all believers in the Bible.
They are – Study of the Word of God, prayer, fasting, confession, worship, fellowship, rest, celebration, service, generosity, chastity, and making disciples.*
Biblical leaders have modelled spiritual discipline as an example for us to follow. Of course, Jesus is our primary example. He often withdrew to pray, setting an example for his followers (Luke 5:16). He also taught his disciples to pray (Matthew 6:5-15). At the beginning of His earthly ministry, He fasted for 40 days and nights in the wilderness (Matthew 4:2).
Jesus quoted Scripture and taught from it, demonstrating the importance of understanding God’s word (Luke 4:17-21). Jesus’s close relationship with his disciples and the early church’s commitment to fellowship (Acts 2:42) illustrate the importance of spiritual community.
Joseph resisted temptation (Genesis 39), displayed self-control and a commitment to righteousness, a key aspect of spiritual discipline. Ruth showed loyalty and service to Naomi, exemplifying a life of selfless service to others (Ruth Ch1-4). King David expressed his intimacy and devotion to God through worship and praise. (2 Samuel 23:1-4)
When it comes to spiritual discipline, where do your strengths and weaknesses lie?
During your own times of prayer and fasting, may God lead you to identify where you are strong and also where you may improve, so that you may become more Christlike in character and function and enjoy the abundant spiritual overflow that is your portion as His ambassador.
*Bible verses for further reflection on the 12 spiritual disciplines mentioned above
| Study of the Word of God | 2 Timothy 3:16; Acts 17:11 |
| Prayer | Hebrews 4:16; Matthew 6:5-6; Luke 18:1-8; Matthew 21:22 |
| Fasting | Philippians 3:19; Matthew 4:2-4; Isaiah 58:1-6 |
| Confession | Proverbs 28:13; Luke 12:8; James 5:16 |
| Worship | 1 Chronicles 16:29; 2 Chronicles 5:1-13; Matthew 4:10; 14:#3; 28:17 |
| Fellowship | Acts 2:42-47; John 17:21-23; Hebrews 10:24-25 |
| Rest | Matthew 11:28-30; Hebrews 4:9 |
| Celebration | Psalm 150.; Luke 15:21-27; Romans 15:9-11; Philippians 4:4 |
| Service | Matthew 23:11; Mark 9:35; Colossians 3:23-24 |
| Generosity | Luke 12:15; Acts 20:35; 2 Corinthians 9:7-14 |
| Chastity | Matthew 5:28; 1 Corinthians 6:18; 1 Corinthians 7:1-5 |
| Making Disciples | Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Acts 5:42 |
My prayer for you today is that you will evaluate your spiritual discipline and enhance your ability to model what other biblical leaders have done as you serve Christ in the Marketplace.
This devotional is written by Pastor Steve Harris, the founder of Global Influencers, an organization that trains and equips leaders to establish anointed communities that transform nations by restoring Kingdom culture from grassroots to government in the villages, cities, regions, and nations of the world. He is also the Content Development Assistant in the Nehemiah Entrepreneurship Community.
Congratulations to Akinwande Olubodun from Nigeria for emerging as the Most Engaged Participant of our recent Nehemiah Business Summit 2025! He has won the grand prize of 2 tickets for next year’s Nehemiah Business Summit with the theme Kairos – The Call to Leadership.
He was diligent in sharing, posting, and encouraging others on our E-Community Platform throughout the duration of the summit! Beyond the summit, Akinwande has been and continues to be an active voice on our community platform!
This is nothing short of a well-deserved win!
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