Crafting a Rule of Life for Spiritual Growth
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. It's wonderful to see so many of you here today, fellowshipping and worshipping together. As we gather, let's remember that God is with us every moment of our lives, and today we focus especially on Him. We are in the process of selecting our servant leaders for the next two years, so please let me know if you have any names to suggest.
Today, we reflect on the importance of having a support structure in our spiritual lives, much like grapevines need poles to grow strong and upward. This brings us to John 15:5, where Jesus says, "I am the vine, you are the branches." Just as vines need support, we too need a structure to thrive spiritually. Over the past six weeks, we've been painting a vision of following Jesus, focusing on being with Him, becoming like Him, and doing as He did. But how do we turn this vision into reality? How do we make transformation possible?
The answer lies in crafting a "rule of life," a set of practices and relational rhythms that create the structure and space for us to be with Jesus, become like Him, and do as He did. This isn't about adding more to our already busy lives but about intentionally aligning our time and habits with our deepest desires to be with Jesus. A rule of life includes daily practices like prayer and scripture reading, weekly practices like keeping the Sabbath, and seasonal practices like serving the poor.
Developing a rule of life isn't something we do out of duty but out of a desire to grow spiritually. It's about creating a balanced approach that fits our personality and current season of life. Whether you're introverted or extroverted, young or old, your rule of life should feel like a gift, not an obligation. It's a way to put friendship with Jesus at the center of our lives, offering our whole selves to God for transformation.
In the chaos of modern life, with all its distractions, we need a rule of life more than ever. Whether we realize it or not, we already have a rule of life based on our daily routines and habits. The question is whether this rule is helping us become more like Jesus or pulling us in the opposite direction. So let's take a moment to reflect on our current rule of life and consider how we can intentionally craft one that aligns with our deepest desires to be with Jesus.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Importance of a Support Structure: Just as grapevines need poles to grow strong and upward, we need a support structure to thrive spiritually. This structure helps us remain in Jesus, as stated in John 15:5, "I am the vine, you are the branches." Without this support, we can do nothing. [26:23]
2. Crafting a Rule of Life: A rule of life is a set of practices and relational rhythms that create the structure and space for us to be with Jesus, become like Him, and do as He did. It's an intentional plan to slow down and simplify our lives around being spiritually formed by Jesus. [39:00]
3. Transformation is Possible but Not Inevitable: While transformation is possible, it requires intentional effort. A rule of life helps us align our daily practices with our deepest desires to be with Jesus. This includes daily, weekly, and seasonal practices that foster spiritual growth. [42:06]
4. Balancing Our Rule of Life: Our rule of life should be balanced, covering a range of practices needed for our transformation. It should fit our personality and current season of life, whether we're introverted or extroverted, young or old. This balance helps us grow spiritually without feeling overwhelmed. [01:08:19]
5. Living with Intentionality: A rule of life helps us live with greater intentionality, aligning our days with our deepest desires to be with and become like Jesus. It's not about adding more to our lives but about doing less and focusing on what truly matters. This intentionality helps us offer our whole selves to God for transformation. [01:12:17]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[00:44] - Opening Prayer
[01:26] - Prayers for Those Absent
[17:17] - Servant Leaders Selection
[24:26] - Observing the Rainbow
[25:13] - The Vineyard Analogy
[26:23] - John 15:5 - The Vine and the Branches
[27:09] - Children's Participation
[28:26] - The Amazing Race Analogy
[29:07] - Matching the Practices
[30:24] - Developing a Daily Prayer Rhythm
[33:09] - Crafting a Rule of Life
[37:27] - Vision into Reality
[39:00] - What is a Rule of Life?
[42:06] - Daily, Weekly, and Seasonal Practices
[44:02] - Evaluating Your Rule of Life
[45:30] - Group Discussion
[01:03:10] - Tips for Crafting a Rule of Life
[01:08:19] - Balancing Your Rule of Life
[01:12:17] - Living with Intentionality
[01:13:47] - Closing Prayer and Grace
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- John 15:5 (NIV): "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
### Observation Questions
1. According to John 15:5, what is the relationship between the vine and the branches? How does this analogy help us understand our need for a support structure in our spiritual lives? [26:23]
2. What are some daily, weekly, and seasonal practices mentioned in the sermon that can be part of a "rule of life"? [42:06]
3. How does the sermon describe the purpose of a "rule of life"? What is it meant to achieve in our spiritual journey? [39:00]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the nature of transformation in our spiritual lives? Is it automatic or does it require something from us? [37:27]
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the analogy of the vine and branches in John 15:5 illustrate the importance of remaining connected to Jesus for spiritual growth? [26:23]
2. The sermon mentions that we already have a "rule of life" based on our daily routines and habits. How can we evaluate whether our current rule of life is helping us become more like Jesus or pulling us in the opposite direction? [44:02]
3. What does it mean to craft a "rule of life" that fits our personality and current season of life? How can this balance help us grow spiritually without feeling overwhelmed? [01:08:19]
4. The sermon emphasizes living with intentionality. How can a "rule of life" help us align our days with our deepest desires to be with and become like Jesus? [01:12:17]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current daily routines and habits. Are there any that you feel are pulling you away from Jesus? What changes can you make to align your routines with your desire to be with Him? [44:02]
2. The sermon suggests starting small when crafting a "rule of life." What is one small, joyful practice you can incorporate into your daily routine to grow closer to Jesus? [01:06:11]
3. Think about your weekly schedule. How can you intentionally set aside time for practices like keeping the Sabbath or gathering with the church? What might you need to remove from your schedule to make this possible? [01:04:39]
4. Consider the seasonal practices mentioned in the sermon, such as serving the poor or sharing the gospel. What is one seasonal practice you can commit to in the coming months to foster your spiritual growth? [42:06]
5. The sermon talks about the importance of community in crafting a "rule of life." Is there someone in your life with whom you can share this journey? How can you support each other in your spiritual practices? [01:10:56]
6. Reflect on the idea that a "rule of life" should feel like a gift, not an obligation. How can you ensure that your spiritual practices bring you joy and not a sense of burden? [01:11:34]
7. The sermon mentions the importance of balancing practices that fit our personality and current season of life. What are some practices that you feel naturally drawn to, and how can you incorporate them into your "rule of life"? [01:08:19]
Devotional
Day 1: The Necessity of Spiritual Support Structures
Just as grapevines need poles to grow strong and upward, we need a support structure to thrive spiritually. This structure helps us remain in Jesus, as stated in John 15:5, "I am the vine, you are the branches." Without this support, we can do nothing. [26:23]
In our spiritual journey, having a support structure is crucial. Just as grapevines rely on poles to grow strong and upward, we too need a framework that helps us stay connected to Jesus. John 15:5 reminds us of this vital connection: "I am the vine, you are the branches." Without this support, we can do nothing. This support structure can take many forms, such as a community of believers, spiritual mentors, or regular spiritual practices that keep us grounded in our faith.
Reflect on the ways you can build or strengthen your spiritual support structure. Are there people in your life who can help you stay connected to Jesus? Are there practices you can incorporate into your daily routine to keep your focus on Him? Remember, without this support, we can easily become disconnected and lose our way.
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Reflection: What are the current support structures in your spiritual life? How can you strengthen them to ensure you remain connected to Jesus?
Day 2: Intentional Spiritual Practices
A rule of life is a set of practices and relational rhythms that create the structure and space for us to be with Jesus, become like Him, and do as He did. It's an intentional plan to slow down and simplify our lives around being spiritually formed by Jesus. [39:00]
Crafting a rule of life involves creating a set of intentional practices and relational rhythms that help us stay connected to Jesus. This isn't about adding more to our already busy lives but about aligning our time and habits with our deepest desires to be with Jesus. A rule of life includes daily practices like prayer and scripture reading, weekly practices like keeping the Sabbath, and seasonal practices like serving the poor. These practices create the structure and space for us to be spiritually formed by Jesus.
Developing a rule of life is not a duty but a desire to grow spiritually. It's about creating a balanced approach that fits our personality and current season of life. Whether you're introverted or extroverted, young or old, your rule of life should feel like a gift, not an obligation. It's a way to put friendship with Jesus at the center of our lives, offering our whole selves to God for transformation.
Colossians 3:16 (ESV): "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God."
Reflection: What daily, weekly, or seasonal practices can you incorporate into your life to create space for spiritual growth and connection with Jesus?
Day 3: The Possibility of Transformation
While transformation is possible, it requires intentional effort. A rule of life helps us align our daily practices with our deepest desires to be with Jesus. This includes daily, weekly, and seasonal practices that foster spiritual growth. [42:06]
Transformation in our spiritual lives is possible, but it doesn't happen by accident. It requires intentional effort and a commitment to aligning our daily practices with our deepest desires to be with Jesus. A rule of life helps us create a framework for this transformation, incorporating daily, weekly, and seasonal practices that foster spiritual growth. These practices might include prayer, scripture reading, Sabbath keeping, and serving others.
By intentionally crafting a rule of life, we create the space and structure needed for God to work in our lives. This isn't about adding more to our already busy schedules but about focusing on what truly matters. When we align our lives with our deepest desires to be with Jesus, we open ourselves up to the possibility of transformation and spiritual growth.
2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV): "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."
Reflection: What intentional efforts can you make today to align your daily practices with your desire to be with Jesus and experience transformation?
Day 4: Balancing Your Spiritual Practices
Our rule of life should be balanced, covering a range of practices needed for our transformation. It should fit our personality and current season of life, whether we're introverted or extroverted, young or old. This balance helps us grow spiritually without feeling overwhelmed. [01:08:19]
A balanced rule of life is essential for spiritual growth. It should cover a range of practices that contribute to our transformation, fitting our personality and current season of life. Whether you're introverted or extroverted, young or old, your rule of life should feel like a gift, not an obligation. This balance helps us grow spiritually without feeling overwhelmed, ensuring that our practices are sustainable and life-giving.
Consider the different aspects of your life and how you can create a balanced rule of life that supports your spiritual growth. This might include daily practices like prayer and scripture reading, weekly practices like Sabbath keeping, and seasonal practices like serving others. By finding a balance that works for you, you can create a sustainable framework for spiritual growth.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 (ESV): "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven."
Reflection: How can you create a balanced rule of life that fits your personality and current season of life, ensuring that your spiritual practices are sustainable and life-giving?
Day 5: Living with Intentionality
A rule of life helps us live with greater intentionality, aligning our days with our deepest desires to be with and become like Jesus. It's not about adding more to our lives but about doing less and focusing on what truly matters. This intentionality helps us offer our whole selves to God for transformation. [01:12:17]
Living with intentionality means aligning our days with our deepest desires to be with and become like Jesus. A rule of life helps us achieve this by creating a framework for our spiritual practices. It's not about adding more to our already busy lives but about doing less and focusing on what truly matters. This intentionality helps us offer our whole selves to God for transformation, ensuring that our lives are centered around our relationship with Jesus.
By living with intentionality, we can create a life that reflects our deepest desires and values. This might involve simplifying our schedules, prioritizing our spiritual practices, and making time for what truly matters. When we live with intentionality, we open ourselves up to the possibility of transformation and spiritual growth, allowing God to work in our lives in powerful ways.
Ephesians 5:15-16 (ESV): "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil."
Reflection: What steps can you take today to live with greater intentionality, aligning your days with your deepest desires to be with and become like Jesus?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "Transformation is possible, but it's not inevitable. Maybe we need a plan just like the plans we have already for other things in our lives. You like many of us have budgets for our money. We might be very good at sticking to them but we have budgets for our money, we have plans for how we will spend our time, some of you have already got plans for what you're going to do for the rest of the day." [38:36] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "As apprentices of Jesus, we follow a rule of life because we want to become like him and do what he did. We too want to finish the race for God and we want to do it well. That's our motivation. Our rule of life will include daily practices like prayer and reading scripture, weekly practices like keeping the Sabbath and gathering with the church, and seasonal practices like serving the poor and sharing the gospel." [41:25] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "In the chaos of modern life, with all its hurry and digital distractions, we need a rule of life more than ever. And the thing is, whether you love the concept of a rule of life or not, if you're one who goes, I don't like rules, I'm going to stay away from it, that's fine. But the problem is, or the challenge is, we already have rules of a rule of life." [43:32] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "A rule of life helps us to live with greater intentionality, aligning our days with our deepest desires to be with and become like Jesus. But remember, following Jesus is not a formula. It's not a course you finish and get to a point and go, that's it, and you get a certificate of completion. It's about friendship." [01:12:17] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "Our personal rule of life is a way of living where we purposefully schedule practices and rhythms into our daily lives that align our time and habits with our deepest desires to be with Jesus and become like him. Now when we think about rules we think of things that we have to do right we have to do this things we're told to do but the good news for the rule of life is it's not the case." [39:00] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So ask yourself, is your rule of life working for you or against you? Is it helping you to become more like Jesus or pulling you more in the other direction? Many of us can often feel far from God, always in a hurry, stuck in our spiritual formation, still living with wounds from our past or dysfunctional patterns in the present." [44:02] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Remember, Jesus said, his yoke is light. And a spirit-inspired rule will make our lives feel supported, lighter, and freer. And just as the Sabbath, and Jesus said the Sabbath was not made for man, the rule of life is made for you. Not you for the rule. And as we write out the rule of life, we're invited to tap into our deepest desires." [01:11:34] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Let's remember that transformation is God's work, not ours. We can't control our spiritual formation. God will do it in his way and at his pace. Living by a rule is simply a way of saying daily, God, here I am. Take me, heal me, free me, transform me." [01:13:47] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So we need to stick with the process and find joy in our ordinary life with God. And do it in community. Crafting a rule of life isn't just a solo exercise, a solo activity. In fact, historically, it was designed for communities to share rhythms of spiritual formation. So doing it with someone else can make a huge difference." [01:10:17] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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