Spiritual Discipline
Spiritual Discipline29
Pray Without Ceasing
By A.W. Tozer0PHP 4:61TH 5:17JAS 5:16A.W. Tozer emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining a consistent prayer life, sharing the story of a once-effective preacher who neglected his time with God and faced serious consequences. Tozer warns that when believers abandon their commitment to prayer, the work of God suffers. He calls for honesty in our relationship with God and urges us to prioritize prayer to avoid spiritual failures. The sermon serves as a reminder that prayer is essential for sustaining our ministries and connection with God.
Fasting - the Good, Bad, and Hungry
By Shane Idleman1244:11ISA 58:6MAT 6:18MAT 26:41GAL 5:17Shane Idleman emphasizes the significance of fasting as a spiritual discipline that helps believers overcome the weakness of the flesh and grow closer to God. He explains that fasting is not merely about abstaining from food but is a means to starve the flesh and be filled with the Holy Spirit, leading to spiritual insight, power, and victory. Idleman highlights the historical importance of fasting in the lives of early church leaders and encourages the congregation to embrace fasting as a way to deepen their relationship with God and experience His presence more fully.
Lean, Mean, Fasting Machine
By Shane Idleman851:23MAT 6:16Shane Idleman challenges the congregation to embrace fasting as a means of spiritual discipline, emphasizing that denying the flesh leads to greater spiritual hunger and connection with God. He discusses the importance of humility in fasting, the necessity of prayer alongside fasting, and the need to confront and discipline our appetites for a deeper relationship with God. Idleman warns against the dangers of complacency and encourages believers to be 'lean, mean, fasting machines' in their spiritual lives, actively fighting against the flesh and the enemy. He highlights that true fasting is about seeking God and aligning our hearts with His will, rather than merely following a formula or tradition.
Teaching Your Children - Seven Sins to Avoid
By Phil Beach Jr.3235:19PRO 30:11Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the critical need for families to prioritize waiting on the Lord amidst a distracting world. He shares a vision of families at home, waiting on God, and stresses that this practice is essential for spiritual strength and growth. Beach outlines seven sins to avoid in parenting, including pride, a critical spirit, and rebellion, urging parents to model godly behavior and teach their children the importance of humility and respect for authority. He warns that children will emulate their parents' actions more than their words, highlighting the responsibility of parents to guide their children in understanding what God loves and hates. Ultimately, he calls for a return to a lifestyle of waiting on God, which will positively influence the next generation.
On Redeeming the Time
By John Wesley0PRO 6:9EPH 5:16John Wesley emphasizes the importance of 'redeeming the time' by being mindful of how we spend our hours, particularly in relation to sleep. He argues that excessive sleep can lead to wasted time, poor health, and spiritual lethargy, urging believers to rise early as a form of self-denial and discipline. Wesley highlights that this practice not only benefits physical health but also enhances spiritual vitality, enabling a deeper connection with God. He encourages Christians to seek divine strength in their efforts to rise early and to maintain consistency in this discipline. Ultimately, Wesley calls for a holistic approach to time management that fosters both physical and spiritual well-being.
Health Seminar Crash Course
By Shane Idleman192:13:40PRO 25:16ISA 26:3MAT 6:33ROM 12:11CO 9:271CO 10:31GAL 5:22PHP 4:131TI 4:41PE 5:7Shane Idleman emphasizes the importance of taking care of our bodies as a gift from God, discussing the rising health issues such as obesity and diabetes, and the need for a balanced approach to nutrition and physical activity. He advocates for a lifestyle that includes healthy eating, fasting, and exercise, while also recognizing the spiritual connection between physical health and spiritual well-being. Shane encourages the congregation to seek God's guidance in their health choices and to be mindful of the impact of their diet on their overall quality of life.
Give Time to God
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 46:10PSA 119:15ISA 40:31MAT 6:6LUK 5:16PHP 4:6COL 3:21TH 5:17HEB 4:16JAS 4:8A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of dedicating time to God for a deeper spiritual life, rejecting the notion of quick fixes in our fast-paced world. He argues that true acquaintance with God requires significant investment in meditation and prayer, mirroring the practices of saints and apostles throughout history. Tozer warns against the superficiality of modern Christian experiences, urging believers to slow down and truly value their relationship with God. He calls for a commitment to spiritual discipline as essential for genuine faith.
Denying Self - Eph. 4, Col. 3
By Phil Beach Jr.3054:00EPH 4:17Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the necessity of denying oneself to truly follow Christ, drawing from Ephesians 4 and Colossians 3. He highlights the importance of putting off the old self and embracing a new life in Christ, which involves rejecting earthly desires and excesses that lead to spiritual discontentment. The preacher calls for a deep introspection and repentance for covetousness and indulgence, urging believers to allow the Holy Spirit to govern their lives. He stresses that true love and forgiveness require self-denial and a willingness to be vulnerable, just as Christ demonstrated through His own suffering. Ultimately, the message is a call to live a life that reflects the love of God, free from the chains of self-centeredness and excess.
I've Been Hurt! Now What?
By Shane Idleman1051:15ACT 15:37Shane Idleman addresses the pain of being hurt by the church and emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and spiritual discipline. He encourages the congregation to engage in worship and prayer, highlighting that spiritual health is reflected in attendance and participation. Idleman warns against the dangers of unforgiveness, comparing it to drinking poison, and stresses that true worship cannot occur while harboring bitterness. He uses the example of Paul and Barnabas from Acts 15 to illustrate that even early church leaders faced conflict, but reconciliation is essential for spiritual growth. Ultimately, he calls for a heart of forgiveness to foster genuine worship and community.
(Needed-Men of God) 2. a Holy Man of God
By Zac Poonen0JOS 7:102KI 4:8PSA 119:37ISA 29:13JER 15:19EZK 33:31EPH 4:24JAS 1:26JAS 3:2JAS 5:16Zac Poonen emphasizes the necessity of being holy men and women of God, as exemplified by Elisha, who was recognized as such by a discerning woman. He challenges the audience to reflect on the impression they leave on others, urging that mere eloquence or charisma is insufficient without genuine holiness. Poonen identifies guile, lack of discipline, and insufficient time spent with God as key barriers to achieving holiness. He asserts that true holiness is essential for effective ministry and revival, and that Christians must strive for a life that reflects God's holiness, regardless of personal ambition or recognition. Ultimately, he calls for a deep yearning for holiness that aligns with God's character, as this is crucial for impactful prayer and ministry.
How to Keep the Fire of God
By Vlad Savchuk24743:17MAT 6:5Vlad Savchuk emphasizes the importance of maintaining a spiritual fire through prayer, fasting, and giving, which serve as weapons against the three main temptations of lust, pride, and greed. He explains that prayer combats pride, fasting helps control lust, and giving defeats greed, urging believers to overcome excuses and actively engage in these disciplines. Savchuk warns that while building a fire for God may expose hidden struggles, it also empowers believers to shake off the challenges they face. He encourages the congregation to cultivate their own spiritual fire rather than relying on external sources, asserting that true dominion comes from personal devotion. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to a life of prayer, fasting, and extravagant generosity as a means to deepen one's relationship with God.
Running the Race
By Erlo Stegen01CO 9:24GAL 5:24PHP 2:5HEB 11:24HEB 12:1HEB 12:4Erlo Stegen emphasizes the importance of running the spiritual race with focus and discipline, drawing parallels between athletic competition and the Christian life. He illustrates that just as athletes strive for a perishable crown, Christians should aim for an imperishable one, remaining steadfast and avoiding distractions. The sermon highlights the necessity of self-control and the rejection of sin, urging believers to prioritize their relationship with God over worldly pleasures. Stegen warns against complacency, reminding listeners that even those who preach must be vigilant to avoid disqualification. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to the race, encouraging believers to persevere and keep their eyes on Jesus as the ultimate prize.
A Prisoner of Appetite - Is Unhealthy Eating a Sin?
By Shane Idleman844:021CO 6:19Shane Idleman addresses the issue of unhealthy eating and its spiritual implications in his sermon 'A Prisoner of Appetite.' He emphasizes that neglecting our physical health can be a form of sin, as it reflects a lack of stewardship over our bodies, which are temples of the Holy Spirit. Shane shares his personal struggles with weight and unhealthy eating habits, drawing parallels between physical and spiritual health. He encourages the congregation to take control of their appetites, submit to God, and make healthier choices, highlighting the importance of discipline and the impact of food on our overall well-being. The sermon serves as a call to action for individuals to reflect on their eating habits and their relationship with God.
Self-Control: A Struggle vs. a Lifestyle
By Shane Idleman1647:12GAL 5:22Shane Idleman emphasizes that self-control is a vital aspect of the Christian life, distinguishing between a struggle and a lifestyle. He warns against the extremes of legalism and grace, advocating for a balanced approach that recognizes self-control as a fruit of the Spirit. Shane shares personal anecdotes to illustrate the importance of self-control in various life areas, including relationships and spiritual disciplines. He encourages believers to pursue self-control through obedience to God's Word, which leads to the filling of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, Shane calls for a heart filled with love, as it is foundational for exhibiting self-control and living a life that honors God.
Our Hearts on the Altar
By Michael Koulianos3636:24JOL 2:28Michael Koulianos emphasizes the urgency of placing our hearts on the altar as we approach Pentecost, urging the church to prioritize Jesus over worldly distractions. He reflects on the significance of the outpouring of the Spirit and the need for intentionality in worship, encouraging believers to seek a deeper relationship with God. Koulianos shares personal experiences of past discouragement and the transformative power of community and prayer, highlighting the importance of being disturbed by the Spirit to foster growth and revival. He calls for a collective commitment to prayer and spiritual discipline, inviting the congregation to engage in a 21-day Daniel Fast to deepen their connection with God. Ultimately, he stresses that true ministry is birthed from a heart devoted to Jesus, not merely from organizational efforts.
Thou Restrainest Prayer Before God.
By F.B. Meyer0JOB 15:4PSA 127:1MAT 6:6ACT 2:42EPH 6:18COL 4:21TH 5:17HEB 10:25JAS 5:161PE 4:7F.B. Meyer emphasizes the critical importance of prayer in the life of a believer, highlighting how Job's friends mistakenly assumed his suffering was due to secret sin, while many Christians today similarly neglect private, social, and family prayer. He warns that restraining prayer leads to spiritual famine and a lack of connection with God, as believers often prioritize work for the Lord over personal communion with Him. Meyer calls for a return to dedicated prayer practices, urging individuals to create time for intercession and to gather with others in prayer, as well as to establish family worship as a cornerstone of home life.
Heart-Seekers
By A.W. Tozer01CO 9:24A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of dedication and discipline in the spiritual life, comparing the lack of commitment among Christians to the rigorous training required in music, sports, and science. He argues that spiritual progress demands a focused separation from worldly distractions, urging believers to cultivate their relationship with God in solitude and silence. Tozer warns that spiritual triumphs require hard work and cannot be achieved through idleness, likening the church's complacency to an undisciplined army that would easily fall to its enemies. He calls for Christians to actively engage in the kingdom of God as diligent workers, much like farmers and miners in their fields.
Dirt Handsomely Fashioned
By Thomas Brooks0GEN 2:7PSA 103:14ECC 12:7MAT 6:19ROM 12:11CO 9:272CO 4:161TI 4:8JAS 1:101PE 1:24Thomas Brooks emphasizes that our physical bodies, formed from dust, are merely 'dirt handsomely fashioned.' He warns against the tendency to pamper the body while neglecting the soul, highlighting the danger of adorning ourselves externally while our inner selves lack grace and holiness. Brooks calls for a disciplined approach to life, urging believers to prioritize spiritual well-being over physical appearance.
Fasting - They Found the Secret
By Shane Idleman1048:27ISA 58:6MAT 6:18MAT 26:41GAL 5:17Shane Idleman emphasizes the transformative power of fasting in his sermon 'Fasting - They Found the Secret.' He explains that while the spirit is willing, the flesh is weak, and fasting serves as a means to strengthen the spirit by denying the flesh. Idleman highlights the historical significance of fasting in the church and its benefits, including spiritual insight, power, and healing. He encourages believers to embrace fasting as a way to humble themselves before God, seek His guidance, and break free from the burdens of sin and addiction. Ultimately, fasting is presented as a vital spiritual discipline that can lead to a deeper relationship with God and a renewed sense of purpose.
The Habit and the Spirit of Prayer
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 119:164DAN 6:10LUK 18:1ROM 12:12EPH 6:18PHP 4:6COL 4:21TH 5:17JAS 5:161PE 5:7C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of establishing set times for prayer in a Christian's life, arguing that regular prayer is essential for maintaining spiritual vitality. He illustrates this with examples from Daniel and David, advocating for punctuality in prayer as one would have for a meeting with a friend. Additionally, Spurgeon highlights the value of brief, spontaneous prayers that can be offered throughout the day, regardless of one's circumstances, allowing for constant communication with God. He encourages believers to cultivate both the habit and the spirit of prayer, suggesting that while structured prayer is important, the ability to pray at any moment is even more valuable. Ultimately, Spurgeon calls for a life filled with both habitual and spontaneous prayers to deepen one's relationship with God.
The Cure From Falling Away
By Shane Idleman131:03:461TI 4:7HEB 12:1Shane Idleman emphasizes the critical need for spiritual discipline in the lives of men to prevent falling away from faith. He reflects on his past experiences with men's conferences and the importance of taking time to wait on God, highlighting that without incorporating spiritual disciplines, one's relationship with God and family can deteriorate. Idleman stresses that true godliness comes from personal responsibility in training oneself through prayer, scripture, and accountability, rather than relying solely on church leadership. He warns against the influences of deceitful spirits and the necessity of prioritizing godly practices to maintain spiritual health. Ultimately, he encourages men to fix their hope on God and actively engage in disciplines that foster a deeper relationship with Him.
21-Day Fast Testimony
By Shane Idleman4056:08MAT 6:16Shane Idleman addresses the recent legislation in New York regarding late-term abortion, expressing deep concern for future generations. He emphasizes the power of prayer and fasting as essential tools for Christians to combat societal issues and grow spiritually. Shane shares personal experiences and testimonies from a 21-day fast, highlighting the importance of self-control and spiritual discipline in overcoming fleshly desires. He encourages the congregation to engage in fasting as a means to deepen their relationship with God and to seek clarity and strength in their spiritual lives. Ultimately, Shane calls for a collective movement among Christians to contend for righteousness through prayer and fasting.
Today's Sleeping Giant
By Leonard Ravenhill0JDG 16:29ISA 51:9Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the Church as a 'sleeping giant' with immense potential to impact the world, akin to Napoleon's view of China. He warns that the Church's current state of slumber allows the enemy to sow discord, drawing parallels to Samson's fall due to complacency. Ravenhill calls for a revival of discipline and obedience, highlighting that true strength comes from the Spirit of God, not from outward appearances. He urges believers to awaken from spiritual lethargy and embrace the supernatural power available through faith and prayer. The sermon concludes with a call to action for the Church to rise and fulfill its God-given potential in a time of great peril.
Rising Early With George Muller
By George Mueller0PSA 5:3PRO 6:9MRK 1:35George Muller emphasizes the importance of rising early to cultivate a deeper relationship with God through prayer and meditation. He shares his personal journey of overcoming the temptation to sleep in, which he found detrimental to both his physical and spiritual well-being. Muller encourages believers to prioritize their time with God, asserting that wasting time in bed is unbecoming for those redeemed by Christ. He advises that early rising, coupled with dependence on God's strength, leads to a more fulfilling and productive life. Ultimately, he calls on Christians to honor God by using their time wisely and to seek His help in establishing this habit.
Long Before the Lord
By A.W. Tozer0EXO 34:34PSA 91:1MAT 6:6LUK 5:16PHP 4:6COL 4:21TH 5:17HEB 4:16JAS 5:161PE 5:7A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of spending significant time in prayer before addressing others about God, using Moses as an example of someone who spoke to God before speaking to the people. He warns against the dangers of rushing into ministry without first being grounded in prayer, suggesting that true spiritual fruit requires a deep and sustained connection with God. Tozer calls for a return to the Biblical norm of prioritizing the secret place of prayer over public preaching, urging believers to cultivate a disciplined spiritual life.
Develop the Habit of Listening to God
By Zac Poonen0LUK 17:26Zac Poonen emphasizes the critical need for believers to develop the habit of listening to God amidst the distractions of daily life, drawing parallels between the days of Noah and Lot and the current state of society where legitimate activities often crowd out time for God. He highlights that true effectiveness in ministry stems from spending time at Jesus' feet, listening for His voice, and warns against the dangers of being too busy to hear God. Poonen illustrates this with biblical examples, such as Moses and Samuel, who prioritized listening to God before speaking to others. He stresses that listening involves more than reading the Bible; it requires meditation, humility, and a willingness to obey God's Word. Ultimately, he calls believers to examine their lives and remove barriers that prevent them from hearing God's voice daily.
Pray Till You Pray
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 55:17MAT 7:7LUK 18:1ROM 12:12EPH 6:18PHP 4:6COL 4:21TH 5:17JAS 5:161PE 5:7A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of persistent prayer in his sermon 'Pray Till You Pray,' urging believers to continue in prayer until they truly connect with God. He highlights the common tendency to end prayers prematurely, often missing the deeper communion that can occur after initial distractions are set aside. Tozer encourages Christians to acknowledge their spiritual dullness and to press through these feelings, as true prayer often requires perseverance and focus. He draws on the wisdom of past prayer warriors, advocating for a commitment to 'pray through' until a genuine encounter with God is achieved. The sermon serves as a reminder of the importance of unhurried meditation in prayer.
When You Fast
By Carter Conlon38716:31MAT 6:16Carter Conlon emphasizes the significance of fasting as a spiritual discipline, asserting that Jesus assumed His followers would fast. He explains that fasting helps clear the mind, fosters self-denial, and deepens our awareness of our need for God. Conlon encourages believers to fast sincerely and in secret, promising that God will reward those who do so openly. He shares personal experiences and biblical examples to illustrate the power of fasting in seeking God's intervention in our lives and communities. Ultimately, he calls the church to embrace fasting as a means to bring about deliverance and transformation in society.
Pharisees Are Ascetics
By Zac Poonen0MAT 6:16MAT 9:14LUK 7:34JAS 3:2Zac Poonen addresses the hypocrisy of the Pharisees who emphasized fasting and asceticism as a means to holiness, contrasting it with Jesus' approach, who fasted out of His holiness rather than to appear holy. He highlights that true spirituality is not about external disciplines but about internal control, particularly over one's speech and thoughts. Poonen points out that Jesus enjoyed life, demonstrated by His first miracle of turning water into wine, which challenged the legalistic mindset of the Pharisees. He warns against boasting about fasting or any spiritual discipline, emphasizing that such acts should be voluntary and not for show. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of holiness that transcends mere external practices.