In 1 Timothy 4:7-8 we read that we are to train, that is discipline, ourselves for Godliness. Furthermore, we are told in Philippians 2:12-13 that we are to work out our own salvation knowing that it is God Who is at work in us for our sanctification and for His will. Committed Christians must discipline themselves for the spiritual warfare that we will face daily. While Bible Study, Bible Reading, Bible Memorization, Bible Meditation, Bible Listening, and Prayer are absolutely the minimum requirements for those who choose to live as committed Christians, there are other spiritual disciplines which can help us draw closer to God.

The final four disciplines which we will address in the this study are fasting, silence/solitude, journaling, and redeeming the time. Like any spiritual discipline – and there are others that we haven’t studied – these activities are intended for one purpose – to draw closer to God. In fasting, we don’t eat and during that time we pray – i.e. we draw closer to God. In practicing silence and solitude we find a time and place where we can be alone with God and sit with Him in silence – i.e. we draw closer to God. As we write down the scriptures, lyrics, quotes and spiritual thoughts we remember the things that God has shown us and taught us – i.e. we draw closer to God. In redeeming the time, especially by observing our quiet time with God and by intentionally focusing on Him at different times of the day, we remember Who God is and who we are in Him – i.e. we draw closer to God.

We must discipline ourselves for Godliness. (1 Timothy 4:7-8)

We must work out our salvation knowing that it is God Who is at work in us for our sanctification. (Philippians 2:12-13)

This Bible study was presented to the Agape Life Bible Study Class of the First Baptist Church in Brenham, Texas, on Sunday, June 25, 2023. It is part of a series of Bible study sessions entitled Living the Agape Life – a Bible study curriculum developed by Bob Young with input from the members of the Agape Life Class. Handouts with slide content can be requested at: fromthebackporchintexas@gmail.com .

Handouts are also available at: fromthebackporch.org .

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