Three Dimensional Approach to Spiritual Disciplines

Dimension 1

1. BIBLE: reading - a regular reading plan like reading the entire Bible over a year if continued year after year can benefit in a number of ways - better familiarity with what is in the Bible, where it's at, what is said about different things; ideas for deeper study; finding good verses to memorize. As I recall, I've found or noticed something new each time I've read through it.


2. PRAYER: personal with self - very helpful to have both regular times and be ready for spontaneous prayer. Also approach can be improved with (NOT necessary though) practicing ACTS - Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication (request).


3. ALMS/WORKS: giving time and money - like 'tithing' although giving of time or money need not be a certain percentage. There may also be the case where one has no money to spare but may have the time to give for others, or vice versa.


4. FELLOWSHIP: one-on-one - doesn't seem as prevalent as fellowship in groups, but can be good for a number of situations hanging out - playing some type of one-on-one game, talking over a more private matter, catching up over coffee or meal, etc.


5. WITNESS: lifestyle - Like the advice to writers, 'Show, don't tell'. While sharing the Gospel is often helped by or even needs words and explanation, I often think in some cases exemplifying it in how one lives and actions can be the best witness. Even when shared by words, it should be backed up by behavior.


6. ABSTINENCE/FASTING: material, appetite (eating and drinking) - Restraining one's desires for things, store visits, collecting, food, snacks, drinks, etc, for a time at least can be good for body, mind and soul. And doing so may help with some of the focus exercises in the next section.


7. FOCUS: prayerful meditation - set aside time alone with God possibly to seek such things as easing of mind or spirit, understanding of situations or people, answers to questions, solutions to problems, etc.

Dimension 2

1. BIBLE: study - a deeper dive into a particular topic of book or passage. This can work well individually or with a group, and is often done corporately with a sermon series in churches. There are many guides and material available to help or structure a study - many books, workbooks, audio media, and even websites. One can study using reference tools available freely in places like Bible Hub


2. PRAYER: with one or a few others/family - regular prayer time with a small group (family works great!). Also good to call on for special situations - needs, preparation, difficult times, etc. This can also be good for or develop into small group study or fellowship.


3. ALMS/WORKS: ministries one-time and ongoing - good variety of opportunities exist. A good church will probably be involved in some, and may also have a list of other local opportunities. This can be a good opportunity to work with others of one's church.


4. FELLOWSHIP: small group/team - again seems more prevalent in larger groups, but smaller ones are easier to get together with less planning time. Examples I've experienced are going to catch movies, multiplayer games, meals and/or desserts.


5. WITNESS: testimony - this is your story of how you were before Christ, how you came to Christ, and how you are now with Christ. It can be brief and to the point or a good longer story if you have one. It is handy to be ready to tell this on short notice as sometimes you have time to prepare, but sometimes it's an on the spot opportunity.


6. ABSTINENCE/FASTING: endorphinal/addictions (sex, relationships, substances, entertainment/screentime) - some things here may be better just ended.. But others like game-playing, tube-watching, etc may be well-served with some type of fasting or taking breaks from.


7. FOCUS: silence - may refer to self and/or place to be in for a while. This can be a chance to remain still and listen for whatever God may have to tell or show you. This may also be a form of fasting.. 8^D

Dimension 3

1. BIBLE: scripture memorizing - good scriptures might be found from reading, hearing key scriptures in sermons or Bible studies or used elsewhere. There are a number of methods to learn them - many involve writing the scripture by hand (helps the memory), then going over them or if a lot, then groups of them each day, maybe having a partner to practice saying them with someone else.


2. PRAYER: with larger group or in worship service - may be in a larger Bible study group or worship service. So having this for a regular practice depends on regular attendance. A record can be kept of prayers to follow up on with answers/praises or for those who missed a session.


3. ALMS/WORKS: missions - often life-changing ventures and while often one-time trips, can be repeating; may be to a foreign country or some place in one's own country or local area. Missionaries often experience being blessed by who they're visiting more than they're giving themselves.


4. FELLOWSHIP: large group/corporate - good for more extensively planned events or celebrations such as holiday events, entertainment get-togethers, youth graduations, camps, etc. This could also be occasional get-togethers of larger Bible study or other groups.


5. WITNESS: evangelism - while often including one's personal testimony, this typically involves a longer more complete presentation of the Gospel sometimes to strangers, and calling for a decision from them after. It can be helpful if you've had time to previously develop a real relationship with the person(s).


6. ABSTINENCE/FASTING: Work or over-working - I'm thinking here of the gift of the Sabbath as well as sabbaticals (or jubilees) and maintaining a work schedule with good work/life balance. There can be times when more work is needed but at least decent time off is preferred.


7. FOCUS: simplifying for less clutter, time wasted, etc - the older I get, the more it's painfully realized that the more accumulated stuff and habits, the longer and harder the clearance of it is..