What you need and don't need to go missional. Fall 2008 Discipleship Community Life

ARTICLE TOOLS

Find similar articles Print this article E-mail this page Bookmark this article

The Willow Creek Association recently published a second book based on its REVEAL research, Follow Me by Greg Hawkins and Cally Parkinson (WCA, 2008). The following excerpt is reprinted with permission.

In our earliest research, we saw that personal spiritual practices had extraordinary power to advance spiritual growth, having arguably more influence on spiritual movement than anything else, including church activities. This inspired us to explore these practices more deeply. Everywhere we turned the data revealed the same truth: "I reflect on the meaning of Scripture in my life," is the practice that is most predictive of growth. Spending time in Bible reflection is hands down the highest impact personal spiritual practice.

There's great significance in the word reflection. It implies a contemplative process, one of thoughtful and careful deliberation. This is not about skimming through a Bible passage or devotional. It is thoughtful, personal meditation that catalyzes spiritual growth.

When assessed alongside fifty-plus catalysts, the Bible's influence seems to transcend all other factors.

We can consider the implications of this finding by thinking about another personal activity—one we all know is very good for our physical health, but not one we engage in as often as we should: exercise.

Typically, people don't exercise for two reasons: they're too busy, or they don't enjoy it. But many people still do it because they know out of all the things they might do to improve their health, nothing beats regular exercise.

Reflection on Scripture shares similar barriers—it doesn't always make it on the calendar, and we sometimes don't enjoy it. But it's possible that just raising awareness of its spiritual benefits will motivate some people to adjust their daily routines to make room for reflection on Scripture.

Is your congregation fully aware of the importance of the Bible for their spiritual health? Are they aware that no matter where they are on their spiritual journey, nothing matters more to their growth—including church services, serving activities, small groups—than time spent in God's Word? Nothing beats the Bible.

When it comes to the second barrier, lack of enjoyment, it may take more than awareness to help people engage. While there is no shortage of Bible study guides, devotionals, and other products, we should spare no creative juices when it comes to resources that unlock the mystery and power of God's Word.

The Bible does not share the grim monotony of the treadmill; it does not need to be a grinding routine.

Awareness and accessibility are two key strategic opportunities for encouraging people to engage in consistent Scripture reflection. Whatever you can do to inspire people to start a new personal routine of reflection on Scripture, rest assured the kingdom benefits will be significant.

Copyright © 2008 by the author or Christianity Today International/Leadership Journal.
Click here for reprint information on Leadership Journal.

				Try an Issue of Leadership RISK-FREE! Name Street Address City/State/Zip E-mail Address No credit card required. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. Offer valid in U.S. only. Click here for International orders. If you decide you want to keep Leadership coming, honor your invoice for just $22.00 and receive three more issues, a full year in all. If not, simply write "cancel" across the invoice and return it. The trial issue is yours to keep, regardless. Give Leadership as a gift Buy 1 gift subscription, get 1 FREE!

FREE Newsletter Sign up for Leadership's e-mail newsletter, Leadership Weekly. You'll receive illustrations, resources, practical advice, and a devotional for the leader's soul every week!    RSS Feed   RSS Help

Easily find high-quality, well-researched materials that provide a Christian perspective on topics ranging from headlines to history. Start using this invaluable tool TODAY for preparing your Bible studies, presentations, class lectures, sermons, meetings, and more.
It's easy and quick to join: 2-for-1 Deal. Two powerful resources for 1 great price! A 1-Year Membership to CTLibrary & a 1-year print subscription to the magazine of your choice! Enjoy your first 7days online FREE! Only $49.95 1-Year Membership Plus your first 7 days are FREE! You won't be charged until after your free trial. Only $49.95 1-Month Membership Includes automatic renewal each month. Only $9.95 1-Year for Print Subscribers Special offer if you are currently a print subscriber to Christianity Today, Leadership journal, Books & Culture or Christian History & Biography. Only $29.95 first year Brought to You by Christianity Today Int'l		FREE e-Newsletter! Even if you're not a member you can take advantage of the free "Christian News & Research" twice monthly e-newsletter! Sign up today for the FREE e-newsletter!   Note: Members also automatically receive this free e-newsletter.