Have a Variety of Spiritual Exercises
The variety helps me stem the tide of boredom from just doing one spiritual exercise over and over again.
Many people go to the gym in an attempt to become physically healthier. They may desire to grow stronger by developing muscles or they might want to look a certain way when they view themselves in the mirror. Anyone who has ever stepped foot into a gym knows that there are many different machines and tools that a person can use to achieve their desired fitness goals. This is useful because the variety of exercises that a person performs helps them become stronger and obtain a well-rounded physique. What would happen if all a person did was chest exercises all day, every day? They might gain some strength—mostly in one area of their body. But they wouldn't end up with a well-rounded physique and they would hardly be considered physically strong. Engaging in a variety of exercises is helpful.
When it comes to our times with the Lord, one of the things we should think about is having a variety of spiritual exercises. This will help us become spiritually stronger and more well-rounded followers of Christ. I incorporate a number of spiritual exercises each day. Some spiritual exercises I do every day while others I engage in every so often. The point is to have some variety. The variety helps me stem the tide of boredom from just doing one spiritual exercise over and over again. More importantly, however, it helps me become a stronger and more well-rounded believer in Jesus.
Take some time to consider what spiritual exercises you can include in your times with the Lord and evaluate them on a regular basis. Some of the things on my list of spiritual exercises include:
Times of complete silence
Using Common Prayer (www.commonprayer.net)
Reading lots of Scripture
Going through a praise and prayer list
Worshiping God through singing
Reflection and journaling
Memorizing Bible verses
There are probably a lot of things you might consider doing that might not necessarily resonate with me. As an example, some of you may like to paint as a form of worship. I can't paint to save my life. But you should go ahead and incorporate that if it's enjoyable to you and helps you connect with Christ. Try out different things to find out what will work for you in your times with God. You are limited only by your own imagination and creativity.
Barnabas the Monastic
Servant of Christ. Husband. Dad. Modern Monastic. I have a wild ambition in life: get as close to the Lord Jesus Christ as I can while on earth. I explore and integrate ancient Christian monk wisdom in modern everyday life. Lives in Canada.
