Life Practices
1. Inward
One of the central teachings of Jesus is that God refashions us from the inside out.
It is easy, however, to get confused about this internal transformation. We don’t change because we gain some higher knowledge or fulfill a set of complex rituals. The good news of Christianity is far simpler than any of that. For example, Jesus told His earliest disciples that they needed to change and become like little children. This is within the grasp of all of us.
What I have learned is that there are predictable life practices that make us more open to this kind of transformation. My inward life practice tab gives helpful reminders about internal transformation.
2. Outward
If we are truly touched by God, filled with His grace and Spirit, then our outer life will be different. We will have new (and renewed) relationships, be people of service and compassion, and live wisely as good stewards (or managers) of God’s creation. Over time as we adopt the Outward Practices, God unties the knots of fear and self indulgence. We become more people who share and welcome others with gratitude and thankfulnessinternal transformation.
3. Upward
Rather than focusing on internal life or on outward actions that we might do, there are certain routine life practices that allow us to reach beyond ourselves and toward God. We do this as we pray, worship, read scripture, and develop accountable relationships with other Christians. I often find that the Upward Practices are more significant as we pass through life development stages or face trials or life-altering circumstances.
