As the new year approaches, an opportunity for a fresh start presents itself. This post unpacks the theological foundations and practical applications of spiritual disciplines, with an urge to pursue godliness with intentionality and excellence in the new year. By embracing these practices, we can better align our lives with God’s purpose, steward our gifts well, and impact others for His kingdom.
The Call to Spiritual Discipline
Spiritual disciplines are intentional practices that help Christians grow in godliness, bridging the gap between justification and glorification. While salvation is solely God’s work (monergistic), sanctification is synergistic, requiring human effort empowered by the Holy Spirit. Philippians 2:12–13 captures this balance: “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you.” The goal, as 1 Timothy 4:7 states, is to “train yourself for godliness.” This pursuit is not about earning salvation but about becoming more like Christ through consistent, disciplined effort.
Paul’s analogy in 1 Corinthians 9:24–27 compares the Christian life to a race, urging believers to run with purpose to obtain an imperishable prize—eternal life and heavenly rewards. In a culture that often prioritizes instant gratification and minimal effort, spiritual growth requires countercultural discipline. Just as athletes train rigorously, Christians must commit to practices that foster holiness, recognizing that spiritual maturity cannot be microwaved but develops through years of faithful effort.
Theological Foundations of Discipline
1. Giving God Our Best
Paul’s imagery of a race resonates deeply, particularly with the Corinthian audience familiar with their city’s renowned athletic games. He writes, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it” (1 Corinthians 9:24). God calls believers to give their best in all areas—whether in spiritual practices, work, parenting, or creativity. Colossians 3:23 reinforces this: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” Laziness, a hallmark of modern culture, is antithetical to the Christian call to excellence. Just as physical fitness requires consistent effort, spiritual growth demands daily commitment to habits that honor God.
2. Exercising Self-Control
Paul continues, “Every athlete exercises self-control in all things” (1 Corinthians 9:25). Athletes forgo certain pleasures—unhealthy foods, late nights—to optimize performance. Similarly, Christians must exercise self-control, a fruit of the Spirit, to pursue holiness. This involves stewarding the body, time, and gifts God has given. Notably, physical health is linked to spiritual health. 1 Timothy 4:8 acknowledges that “bodily training is of some value,” while godliness holds eternal value. As temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19–20), believers are called to care for their bodies, enabling them to serve God effectively and with longevity.
3. Pursuing Eternal Rewards
Unlike athletes who compete for perishable wreaths, Christians seek an imperishable crown (1 Corinthians 9:25). Earthly achievements pale in comparison to hearing, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23). Investing in spiritual growth has eternal implications, shaping not only personal holiness but also the ability to lead others to Christ. Mark 8:36 challenges believers: “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” Prioritizing godliness over worldly pursuits ensures a legacy that endures.
4. Intentional Pursuit of Holiness
Paul emphasizes intentionality: “I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air” (1 Corinthians 9:26). Spiritual growth requires a plan, not haphazard effort. Without intentionality, believers risk becoming stagnant. The new year offers a perfect opportunity to establish routines that foster godliness, such as consistent prayer, study of Scripture and church involvement.
5. Consequences of Indiscipline
Finally, Paul warns, “I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified” (1 Corinthians 9:27). Lack of discipline risks missing heavenly rewards and earthly opportunities to serve God. Christians are called to be ambassadors of the gospel, but habitual sin or laziness hinders this mission. Disciplined living equips believers to live out the Great Commission and point others to Christ.
Faith in Action
To translate these principles into action, consider incorporating the following disciplines into your life this new year:
1. Give God the First Fruits of Your Day
While not explicitly commanded, starting the day with God sets a foundation for spiritual growth. A morning routine of prayer and Bible study aligns the heart with God’s will before worldly distractions take hold. Practical steps include:
- Avoid immediate phone use: Set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” to prioritize God’s Word over social media.
- Establish a routine: Go to bed on time and wake up promptly to ensure unhurried time with God.
- Pray with purpose: Prayer is about knowing God, not just requesting blessings. Pray through Psalms or other books of the Bible. Praying the Bible by Donald Whitney dives deep into this practice. Getting on your knees can also foster a posture of dependence, minimizing distractions.
- Study Scripture daily: 2 Timothy 3:16–17 highlights the transformative power of God’s Word. Choose a Bible reading plan to guide your study, ensuring consistent engagement. Don’t just read the Word, but meditate on the Word.
2. Prioritize the Local Church
Hebrews 10:24–25 exhorts believers not to neglect meeting together but to encourage one another. The local church is essential for spiritual growth, providing preaching, shepherding, accountability, and community. This upcoming year, commit to:
- Joining a Bible Study Group: Build relationships with like-minded believers who sharpen your faith.
- Serve actively: Volunteer in church ministries like children or student ministry, jail outreach, or recovery groups to stretch and grow.
- Engage deeply: Attend midweek classes or join new initiatives to deepen your involvement. Be sure to find opportunities to obey the “one another” commands of Scripture.
3. Invest in God’s Kingdom
Paul’s mission in 1 Corinthians 9:22–23—to “become all things to all people” to save some—underscores the evangelistic purpose of spiritual disciplines. Godliness equips believers to share the gospel effectively. Practical steps include:
- Build relationships: Invite a coworker to church or study the Bible with a friend.
- Care for the lost: Check in on those who need the gospel, showing them the hope of Christ.
- Respond to God’s call: If God is nudging you toward missions or ministry, act in faith. Every Christian is called to build God’s kingdom, whether through small acts or significant commitments.
Living with Intention in a New Year
The new year offers a fresh opportunity to cultivate spiritual disciplines that foster godliness. By giving God our best, exercising self-control, pursuing eternal rewards, and living with intentionality, believers can grow in Christlikeness and impact others for His glory. The consequences of indiscipline—missed rewards and opportunities—underscore the urgency of this call. As Paul’s athletic imagery reminds us, the Christian life is a race that demands effort, focus, and perseverance.
This upcoming year, let us commit to morning routines of prayer and Bible reading, prioritize the local church, and invest in God’s kingdom. Purge anything that hinders holiness—whether sin, idols, or distractions—and seek accountability to stay on track. As we discipline our bodies and minds, we align with God’s transformative work, becoming vessels for His glory. May this year be marked by a deeper pursuit of Christ, trusting that “it is God who works in us, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).
Tethered to Truth 