“Some clergy prepare their sermons; others prepare themselves.” – Samuel Wilberforce

As I prepare to speak what I hope is a faithful word each week, it is a great reminder that my preparing my life is as important as my exegesis.

Spiritual disciplines (prayer, study, fasting, worship, etc.) are the very ground in which God works to shape our lives, our families, and our communities.  And yet, my guess, based upon my own life, is that we would all like to be more consistent, more passionate, more connected to these practices.  I know that my hope is that they become a permanent lifestyle and not spiritual hobbies I pick up from time to time.

With the beginning of school, a season fresh with new starts, right around the corner, maybe this is a good time to pick up one of these disciplines and make it a regular part of your journey.  My guess is that it will become a regular part of your life afterwards.