Spiritual disciplines are integral to the growth of any believer whether young or old. But sometimes things happen in life that get us off track from the basics of spiritual discipline. This series seeks to cultivate spiritual practices in the believer’s life, and cultivate better habits when it comes to prayer, Bible reading, and other disciplines. In this series, we’ll be looking at practical ways to deepen and bear fruit in our spiritual walk. Whether young or old, come join us as we ‘get into the habit’ of a sincere and authentic Christian faith.
Get Into the Habit of Praying
By: Ian Opiniano
In order for us to grow in our walk with God, we must get into the habit of praying. In this sermon we looked at the recommendations of Christ Himself when it comes to how we should pray. We saw how He warns us to not seek commendation for praying publicly, but rather seek privacy to have intimate and sincere conversations with the Father. He also reminds us to have faith when we pray, knowing with certainty that the Father has indeed heard us. Prayer is crucial to a fruitful walk with God, and thus must be practiced consistently with passion and sincerity.
Get Into the Habit of Studying
By: Ian Opiniano
As we continued our series about getting back into the habit of practising spiritual disciplines, we looked at the practice of reading Scripture. We first looked at why it is necessary to read God’s word, recalling that the Bible helps us prove what is true, and determine what is false. In addition, reading Scripture helps us practise what we teach, guiding us on what we should and should not do. Finally, we were reminded that God’s Word encourages through trials and helps us persevere. As believers, we are destined for hardship in this life, and we must be grounded in the Word of God in order to withstand the many trials we will experience.
Get Into the Habit of Being Present
By: Ian Opiniano
In this sermon we discussed getting into the habit of practicing the ministry of presence in the church. This is the call to walk with other believers through various seasons of life, edifying and encouraging one another. We were reminded that though we are many, we are meant to be one in the church, setting aside divisions and differences to be the body of Christ. Additionally we have been given spiritual gifts in order to minister to each other, and demonstrate sincere love in the church. Our presence in the church or lack thereof, is felt in the body of Christ, therefore, let us not forsake the call to worship God in the assembly of believers.
Get Into the Habit of Resting
By: Ian Opiniano
As we concluded our series on getting into the habit of spiritual disciplines we discussed the topic of resting in God. We were reminded that rest is not simply a physical condition, but conveys a deeper need for a change in spiritual disposition. We also saw how rest is not a right of man, but rather a gift from God, and therefore should be regarded as something to be enjoyed. Finally, we saw how rest is not so much the absence of work, but the surrender of it to the Sovereign God. Ultimately, we can only find our rest in the Savior who has finished the work and has accomplished that rest on our behalf.