Crafting a Rule of Life

1. Craft a personal rule of life to align with God's intentions

Your personal rule of life is a holistic description of the Spirit-empowered rhythms and relationships that create, redeem, sustain and transform the life God invites you to humbly fulfill for Christ's glory.

Definition and purpose. A personal rule of life is a intentional pattern of spiritual disciplines, relationships, and activities that provides structure and direction for growth in holiness. It's not about following strict rules, but rather creating a framework to help you grow closer to God and live out your calling. Think of it as a trellis that supports a growing vine - it provides guidance and structure, but allows for flexibility and natural growth.

Key components. A comprehensive rule of life addresses:

• Spiritual practices (prayer, Scripture study, worship)
• Relationships (family, friends, church community)
• Work/vocation
• Physical health
• Finances and resources
• Service and outreach

Benefits. Crafting a rule of life helps you:

• Align your daily actions with your values and God's will
• Create space for God amidst busyness
• Grow in spiritual maturity and Christlikeness
• Live with greater intention and purpose

2. Understand your roles, gifts, and deepest desires

Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.

Self-awareness is crucial. Understanding who God made you to be is foundational to crafting a meaningful rule of life. Take time to reflect on:

• Roles: What are your primary relationships and responsibilities?
• Gifts: What are your God-given talents and spiritual gifts?
• Desires: What are your deepest longings and core values?

Practical steps:

• Make a list of your current roles (e.g., spouse, parent, employee, church member)
• Take a spiritual gifts assessment
• Journal about what truly matters to you and brings you joy
• Ask trusted friends for their insights into your strengths and passions

Remember that your identity is ultimately found in Christ, not in your roles or abilities. Let this self-reflection lead you to gratitude for how God has uniquely created and called you.

3. Develop a clear vision and mission for your life

I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.

Vision defines direction. Your vision is a picture of the preferred future God is inviting you into. It answers the question, "What do I sense God calling me to become and do with my life?" A clear vision provides motivation and helps you prioritize your time and energy.

Mission guides action. While vision is future-oriented, your mission statement describes your purpose and how you'll work towards your vision in this current season of life. It answers, "How am I uniquely gifted to serve God and others right now?"

Crafting statements:

• Vision: "To [become/accomplish something] for the glory of God and the good of others."
• Mission: "To [action verb] [target audience] by [key contribution] in order to [desired impact]."

Regularly revisit these statements, seeking God's guidance through prayer, Scripture, and wise counsel to ensure they align with His will for your life.

4. Prioritize spiritual practices and relationships

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Spiritual disciplines cultivate intimacy with God. Regular engagement in practices like prayer, Scripture reading, worship, and solitude are essential for spiritual growth and discerning God's will. These aren't about earning God's favor, but creating space to experience His transforming presence.

Key practices to consider:

• Daily quiet time for prayer and Bible study
• Weekly Sabbath rest
• Regular fasting
• Journaling
• Contemplative prayer or meditation on Scripture

Relationships shape us. We are profoundly influenced by those closest to us. Intentionally cultivate relationships that encourage your spiritual growth:

• Accountability partners
• Mentors
• Small group or Bible study
• Spiritual director

Be intentional about scheduling these practices and relationships into your weekly rhythm. Start small and build consistency rather than trying to do everything at once.

5. Care for your physical health as a temple of God

I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

Stewardship of the body. Your physical health impacts every area of life, including your ability to serve God and others effectively. Caring for your body is an act of worship and stewardship of the gift God has given you.

Key areas to address:

• Nutrition: Eat a balanced, whole-foods diet
• Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity
• Rest: Prioritize adequate sleep and times of relaxation
• Stress management: Develop healthy coping mechanisms

Practical steps:

• Schedule regular check-ups and preventative care
• Set realistic health goals (e.g., exercising 3x/week, drinking more water)
• Find physical activities you enjoy
• Practice the spiritual discipline of fasting (with medical guidance if needed)

Remember that perfection isn't the goal. Seek to honor God by making wise choices about your health, while extending grace to yourself in the process.

6. Practice faithful stewardship of finances and resources

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Biblical stewardship. All we have belongs to God, and we are called to manage His resources wisely. This includes not just money, but also time, talents, and possessions. Faithful stewardship frees us from the love of money and aligns our hearts with God's priorities.

Key principles:

• Generosity: Give sacrificially to God's work and those in need
• Contentment: Find satisfaction in God, not material possessions
• Wisdom: Make sound financial decisions, avoiding debt when possible
• Eternal perspective: Invest in what has lasting value

Practical steps:

• Create a budget that reflects your values
• Set giving goals (start with tithing 10% if you're not already)
• Simplify your lifestyle to free up resources for Kingdom purposes
• Seek financial counsel if needed
• Practice gratitude for what you have

Remember that God cares more about your heart than the specific amount you give. Cultivate a generous spirit and trust God to provide for your needs.

7. Engage in missional service within your community

For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Living on mission. God has uniquely gifted and positioned you to make a difference in your sphere of influence. Missional living means intentionally looking for ways to serve others and share the love of Christ in your daily life.

Areas to consider:

• Workplace: How can you be salt and light among your colleagues?
• Neighborhood: How can you build relationships and meet needs locally?
• Church: How can you use your gifts to serve the body of Christ?
• Global: How can you engage in God's work around the world?

Practical steps:

• Pray for opportunities to serve and share your faith
• Identify a specific need in your community you can address
• Volunteer regularly with a local ministry or non-profit
• Practice hospitality by inviting others into your home
• Go on a short-term mission trip

Remember that effective service flows out of your relationship with God. Stay connected to Him as the source of love and power for ministry.

8. Commit to the body of Christ and spiritual friendships

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Church involvement is vital. Active participation in a local church is essential for spiritual growth and living out your rule of life. The church provides accountability, encouragement, and opportunities for service and worship.

Key commitments:

• Regular attendance at worship services
• Participation in a small group or Bible study
• Using your gifts to serve the congregation
• Financial support of the church's mission

Cultivate spiritual friendships. Deep, intentional relationships with other believers provide support, accountability, and opportunities for growth. These friendships create a context for living out your personal rule of life.

Types of spiritual friendships:

• Accountability partners
• Prayer partners
• Mentoring relationships (both being mentored and mentoring others)
• Small group members

Prioritize time for these relationships, even when life gets busy. They provide essential support for living out your faith and personal rule of life.

9. Review and revise your rule of life regularly

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

Ongoing discernment. Your rule of life is not meant to be static, but should evolve as you grow and your life circumstances change. Regular review helps ensure your practices remain life-giving and aligned with God's current work in your life.

Suggested review process:

1. Schedule regular times for reflection (e.g., quarterly, annually)
2. Prayerfully evaluate each area of your rule of life
3. Celebrate growth and identify areas needing adjustment
4. Seek input from trusted spiritual friends or mentors
5. Make necessary revisions to your rule
6. Recommit to living out your updated rule

Embrace grace. Remember that your rule of life is a tool for growth, not a source of guilt. When you fall short, receive God's forgiveness and keep moving forward. The goal is progress, not perfection, as you grow in Christlikeness.

Last updated: November 2, 2024