Back 2 Basics with Simple Faith-Building Practices

Self-discipline. There. I said it.

Are you still with me?

Or have you clicked over to a screen that might offer an easier message?

The truth is, I’m writing for you today (and for myself as well), so I’m pleased that you’re still reading.

I’ve never met anyone who didn’t recognize a need for some measure of increased self-discipline. There’s almost always an aspect of life where we could use an infusion of self-control to move forward.  It’s not that we’re void of self-control at all. In fact, most of us can show great willpower and regimen in some areas. But we seem to fall flat in others.

For example...

• We might diligently exercise but tend to pay our bills a bit late.
• A master of the financial world might neglect their spiritual training. 
• I have “a friend” (ahem) who struggles to eat right but gives painstaking attention to her task list.   

Wouldn't we love to be masters of all trades? Since we’re obviously not, it’s safe to say that everyone needs a little boost in self-discipline for one aspect of life or another.

I believe that we often overcomplicate our goals and aspirations. We don’t allow room for mistakes and expect a miraculous level of growth and achievement when we begin something new. When we don’t see immediate results, we quit entirely instead of persisting through the difficult stages that come with any worthy activity.

This month we’re drawing a line in the sand. Making things harder than we need to stops… right… here.

All month-long, we’re going to focus on getting back to basics with simple faith-building practices. Keyword: Simple. We’re not going to over analyze, over scrutinize, or over intellectualize. Instead, we’re going to take simple, easy steps that move us closer to God, inch by inch.

Who is our team? Every one of us. If you’re hungry for a closer walk with God and want to receive practical encouragement in embracing His blessings, then consider yourself on the team.

What is our goal? To begin or continue to practice simple faith-building activities that will deepen our relationship with Jesus.

Why are we dong this? To draw near to God so that we can think, speak, and act in ways that enrich our lives and honor Him.

What do we promise? To give grace to ourselves and one another. We’ll allow ourselves to grow step by step and trust that God is with us, helping us along the way. 

I can’t wait to begin and I’m thrilled that you’ll join us in the journey!  Tomorrow we’ll start with step one: Daily Time in God’s Word.  As we progress through the month, we’ll hit other topics like prayer, worship, fasting, and Scripture memory. Each of these activities delivers blessings far greater than we can ask or imagine. Get ready to dig for treasures untold.

Meet me right back here and we’ll get back to basics. Until then . . .

Be strengthened today, by His Word,

Psalm 119:28

Cathy