Coming off of the Spiritual Rhythms retreat, I am both challenged and encouraged.
In the four days that we spent in Alabama on this retreat, God showed me several ways that I can implement new healthy disciplines in my life. One rhythm that was emphasized during our time was solitude. Because of the normalcy in our culture for hurriedness, this practice is very foreign to us, but the discipline of slowing down, silencing your mind, and sitting in the presence of God is extremely beneficial, as well as intentional way to grow your relationship with your Creator. I recognize that in my life, I tend to lack the self-control to pull myself away from the hustle and bustle of life to spend extended time with God.
Time in solitude is also a form of worship.
Andy Pettigrew reminded us that solitude is first and foremost for God, and He should be the central part of it. Learning the importance of the intentional practice of solitude created a desire in me to begin implementing this into my life. Moving forward, I want to set aside a day each month to spend with Jesus.
Another spiritual rhythm that we were taught was the discipline of submission. Matt Dee defined submission as “putting someone’s will above your own in both behavior and attitude.” The idea of submission underlies every spiritual discipline there is. In order to live out any specific discipline, there must be a reason why and an authority that drives our desire to practice that discipline.
This concept was something I had not thought of in that way before, and I have a newfound understanding of how to set my heart right when seeking to implement any other kind of spiritual discipline. The Spiritual Rhythms Retreat allowed me to reflect on my life and habits as well as learn new, good habits, so that I might be able to practice them myself.
Mary Rubado, Class of 2027
We believe that when a student is rooted in truth, they become a catalyst for the Kingdom wherever they go. Help us continue to forge disciples who possess the resolve to stay faithful and the tools to make disciples. Your investment in the Multiply Fund makes this transformation possible.