> Spiritual disciplines are essential practices that help believers grow in their faith and deepen their relationship with God. However, some of these disciplines can be particularly challenging to maintain consistently.
This article explores some of the most difficult spiritual disciplines and why they pose such challenges, offering encouragement and practical insights for perseverance.
1. Prayer
Prayer is often cited as one of the most challenging spiritual disciplines to maintain consistently. Despite its fundamental importance in the Christian life, many believers struggle with regular, meaningful prayer. Jesus emphasized the importance of persistent prayer in Luke 18:1, saying that we “should always pray and not give up.”
Why it’s challenging:
- Busyness and distractions of daily life
- Feeling like prayers aren’t being answered
- Difficulty focusing or knowing what to say
Reflect on the following questions:
- What are your biggest obstacles to maintaining a consistent prayer life?
- How can you create a more intentional prayer routine?
E.M. Bounds wrote, “Prayer is not learned in a classroom but in the closet.” This reminds us that prayer is a practice that improves with commitment and persistence.
“Prayer is not learned in a classroom but in the closet.”
E.M. Bounds
2. Fasting
Fasting, whether from food or other comforts, is a discipline that many find challenging. Jesus assumed His followers would fast, saying in Matthew 6:16, “When you fast,” not “if you fast.”
Why it’s challenging:
- Physical discomfort and hunger
- Cultural emphasis on constant consumption
- Lack of understanding about the purpose of fasting
Reflect on the following questions:
- What has been your experience with fasting?
- How might regular fasting deepen your dependence on God?
Richard Foster notes, “Fasting reveals the things that control us.” This insight can help us approach fasting as a tool for spiritual growth rather than mere deprivation.
3. Bible Study
Regular, in-depth Bible study is crucial for spiritual growth, yet many believers find it challenging to maintain. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us of the importance of Scripture for equipping us in our faith.
Why it’s challenging:
- Time constraints
- Difficulty understanding certain passages
- Lack of immediate perceived relevance to daily life
Reflect on the following questions:
- What obstacles prevent you from consistent Bible study?
- How can you make Scripture engagement more meaningful and relevant to your life?
John Piper emphasizes, “The Bible is not a book for casual reading; it is meant for study, for mediation, for absorption, for life.” This perspective can motivate us to approach Bible study with greater intentionality.
4. Solitude and Silence
In our noisy, connected world, the disciplines of solitude and silence can be particularly challenging. Yet, Jesus often withdrew to quiet places to pray (Luke 5:16), setting an example for us.
Why it’s challenging:
- Fear of missing out or being disconnected
- Discomfort with silence and being alone with our thoughts
- Busy schedules that don’t seem to allow for quiet time
Reflect on the following questions:
- How comfortable are you with silence and solitude?
- What benefits might you experience from regular times of quiet reflection?
Dallas Willard writes, “Silence is the spiritual discipline of taking our hand off the controls.” This reminds us that solitude and silence are about surrendering control and listening to God.
“Silence is the spiritual discipline of taking our hand off the controls.”
Dallas Willard
5. Evangelism
Sharing our faith can be one of the most challenging spiritual disciplines. Yet, Jesus commands us to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).
Why it’s challenging:
- Fear of rejection or ridicule
- Feeling inadequately prepared to answer questions
- Concern about offending others or being perceived as pushy
Reflect on the following questions:
- What are your biggest fears or hesitations about sharing your faith?
- How can you prepare yourself to be more comfortable and effective in evangelism?
D.L. Moody said, “Out of 100 men, one will read the Bible, the other 99 will read the Christian.” This emphasizes the importance of living out our faith as a form of evangelism.
6. Generosity and Sacrificial Giving
Practicing consistent, sacrificial generosity can be challenging for many believers. Yet, 2 Corinthians 9:7 encourages us to be cheerful givers.
Why it’s challenging:
- Financial pressures and concerns
- Cultural emphasis on accumulation and security
- Difficulty trusting God with our resources
Reflect on the following questions:
- How do you view your possessions and resources in light of God’s ownership?
- In what ways can you grow in generosity, beyond just financial giving?
Randy Alcorn notes, “God prospers me not to raise my standard of living, but to raise my standard of giving.” This perspective shift can help us approach generosity with a more open heart.
“God prospers me not to raise my standard of living, but to raise my standard of giving.”
Randy Alcorn
Conclusion
While these spiritual disciplines can be challenging to maintain, they are crucial for our spiritual growth and intimacy with God. As we persevere in these practices, we can take encouragement from Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Remember that spiritual growth is a journey, not a destination. Be patient with yourself, but also be intentional about incorporating these disciplines into your life. As you do, you’ll likely find that the challenges diminish and the rewards of a deeper relationship with God increase.
May we all strive to cultivate these spiritual disciplines, trusting that as we draw near to God, He will draw near to us (James 4:8).
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