Spiritual Disciplines from Moving Beyond Motions

In the Fall of 2019 through Spring 2020, we looked at how we can move beyond the motions and develop a personal relationship with God through spiritual practices. Throughout the year, we worked our way through 12 practices that help us connect to God. This page is meant to be a resource for each of us to discover, try, and learn more about each of these practices.

Celebration

— Remembering and rejoicing in the goodness of God
 

“These things I have spoken to you that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” John 15:11
 

Get Ready:

- Take a few minutes to read over Philippians 4:4-8. Pray asking God to help you not to be anxious about anything. If you have cares or concerns, share those with God and take time to thank Him for areas you’ve seen Him working.
 

Try it out:

- Have an impromptu dance party. If possible involve kids, and put on upbeat music. Sing, dance, and shout about good things God is giving you this week. You may have a big milestone to celebrate or you may be celebrating something simple like a great meal, a paid bill, or something good that happened at work.
- Take some time to laugh this week. Share funny stories with friends or family members, watch funny videos, or remember your favorite funny moments with friends.
- Celebrate by giving something away. Think about the next holiday coming up. Consider what you can give away to a neighbor, friend, or coworker to celebrate that day. As you give, make a short list of all the ways God has provided for you in the past.

 

Go Deeper:

- To learn about celebration, check out this short article about it on https://ren-
ovare.org/articles/understanding-celebration
.
- Check out these 3 tips for celebrating every day. 
https://www.seedbed.com/3-
- tips-to-making-celebration-part-of-your-day-every-day/

- Read Richard Foster’s Celebration of Discipline chapter on Celebration.
- Read The Christian’s Secret of a Happy Life by Hannah Whitall Smith to learn more about ongoing happiness.

Worship
Guidance
Confession
Service
Submission
Solitude
Simplicity
Study
Fasting
Intercessory Prayer
Meditation