Book Review: Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life by Donald Whitney

"Discipline has become a dirty word in our culture," but the practice of spiritual disciplines as a road to godliness cannot be ignored by Christ followers.  While in the store looking for this book a guy asked what I was looking for.  When I told him the title he said, "Oh, so are you a seminary student?"  After thinking about this comment I realized how ridiculous it was.  The spiritual disciplines are not for lofty spiritual thinkers, but are meant for every believer.  We are not to be lazy in our faith, but are to strive towards Christlikeness in all that we do.  There is Biblical basis for each of the disciplines Whitney discusses in this book.

The theme verse for the book is from Timothy 4:7 saying, "Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness."  Verse 8 goes on to say, "For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come."  My last post was about sanctification, and I believe that the process of becoming more Christ-like happens through our pursuit of the spiritual disciplines.

Whitney discusses 10 disciplines including: Bible intake, prayer, worship, evangelism, serving, stewardship, fasting, silence and solitude, journaling, and learning.  In each chapter he explains what the discipline is, gives Scriptural references for that discipline, and offers insights into application for our lives. This incredible book will encourage and inspire you to cultivate an eternal perspective on how you spend your time on this earth.  If we are not striving daily to be more like Christ, then we are wasting our time.  "By neglecting the spiritual disciplines, we face the danger of bearing little spiritual fruit."

In the concluding chapter, Whitney encourages believers to persevere in the disciplines even when life is busy saying, "The spiritual disciplines have always been what can make a Godly person out of a busy person."  He explains the role of the Holy Spirit, fellowship, and struggle as a means of achieving godliness through the practice of the disciplines.  As Christians, we should constantly be striving and laboring for godliness by disciplining ourselves in the above areas.  I would highly encourage anyone to check out this excellent book and continue along the path towards godliness!