“The Spiritual Disciplines Handbook: Practices That Transform Us” Essay

“The Spiritual Disciplines Handbook: Practices that Transform Us” by Adele Ahlberg Calhoun is a guidebook that offers practical guidance on various spiritual disciplines that can help us grow in our intimacy with God, studying and applying the Bible, and loving others as Christ did. Part 2 of the book, “Open Myself to God,” introduces various spiritual practices such as contemplation, examen, journaling, and rest. Part 5, “Hear God’s Word,” explores practices related to studying and applying the Bible. Part 6, “Incarnate the Love of Christ,” offers practices described as loving others as Christ did. Calhoun concludes the book by encouraging readers to commit to practicing these disciplines regularly and to be shaped by God’s word. The book serves as a helpful guide for those seeking to deepen their spiritual lives and transform themselves through practical discipline.

Part 2 of the book, “Open Myself to God,” offers practical guidance on various spiritual disciplines that help us grow in our intimacy with God (Calhoun, 2015):

• Contemplation involves intentionally setting aside time to be with God and letting go of distractions. This practice includes finding a quiet space to meditate on God’s Word or character, allowing thoughts and emotions to arise and fall away, and being open to God’s presence.
• The examen is a practice of reflecting on the day’s events and discerning God’s presence in them. It involves recalling moments of gratitude, asking for forgiveness, seeking wisdom for the future, and acknowledging God’s presence throughout the day.
• Journaling is writing down thoughts and emotions related to one’s spiritual journey. This practice includes writing down prayers, reflections on scripture or spiritual traditions, and gratitude lists. It helps to clarify one’s thoughts and deepen one’s relationship with God.
• Practicing the presence involves intentionally focusing on God’s presence throughout the day. This practice includes acknowledging God’s presence in every moment, being mindful of one’s thoughts and actions, and giving thanks for everything.
• Rest is a discipline of intentionally setting aside time for rest and rejuvenation. It includes getting enough sleep, relaxing and engaging in enjoyable activities, and setting boundaries around work and responsibilities.
• The retreat is intentionally withdrawing from daily life to be alone with God. This practice includes finding a quiet and comfortable space to engage in spiritual practices, setting aside time for reflection and meditation, and seeking guidance from spiritual mentors or directors.
• Self-care is intentionally caring for one’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This practice includes taking care of one’s body through exercise and healthy eating, engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment, and seeking support from others when needed.
• Simplicity is a discipline of intentionally focusing on what is truly important and letting go of the unnecessary. This practice includes cultivating contentment, simplifying possessions and schedules, and giving generously.
• Slowing is a discipline of intentionally slowing down and being present at the moment. It involves being mindful of one’s thoughts and actions, intentionally slowing down one’s pace, and being open to God’s presence in the present moment.
• Teachability is the discipline of being open to learning and growing from others. This practice includes seeking out mentors or spiritual directors, being open to feedback and constructive criticism, and being willing to learn from different perspectives.
• Unplugging is a discipline of intentionally disconnecting from technology and other distractions. This practice includes setting aside regular periods to be free from technology, being present in the moment, and being open to God’s presence.

Part 5: Hear God’s Word explores practices related to studying and applying the Bible (Calhoun, 2015):

1. Introduction
   • Calhoun explains that hearing God’s word is crucial for spiritual growth and transformation.
   • She encourages readers to approach the Bible with an open heart and a desire to be transformed.
2. Practices for Hearing God’s Word
   1. Lectio Divina
      • Calhoun defines Lectio Divina as a slow, meditative scripture reading to allow God to speak to us.
      • She outlines four steps for practicing Lectio Divina: reading, meditation, prayer, and contemplation.
      • She emphasizes the importance of listening to God’s voice during this practice.
   2. Memorization
      • Calhoun suggests memorizing scripture to internalize God’s word and allow it to shape our thoughts and actions.
      • She offers tips for effective memorization, such as repetition and writing out verses.
   3. Bible Study
      • Calhoun guides studying the Bible, including choosing a passage, analyzing the context, and using study aids.
      • She emphasizes the importance of engaging with scripture on a deeper level and allowing it to transform our lives.
   4. Spiritual Reading
      • Calhoun recommends reading books that deepen our understanding of the Bible and its teachings.
      • She suggests selecting books from trusted authors and using discernment to choose what to read.
3. Applying God’s Word
   1. Obeying God’s Word
      • Calhoun emphasizes the importance of obedience to God’s commands and teachings.
      • She encourages readers to examine their lives and make changes based on what they learn from scripture.
   2. Praying God’s Word
      • Calhoun suggests using scripture in prayer to align our desires with God’s will.
      • She provides examples of how to pray using verses and encourages readers to make it a regular practice.
   3. Living God’s Word
      • Calhoun encourages readers to apply God’s word in all areas of their lives, including relationships, work, and leisure.
      • She emphasizes the importance of living out our faith and being a witness to others.
4. Conclusion
   • Calhoun concludes the section by encouraging readers to commit to practicing the disciplines of hearing God’s word regularly.
   • She reminds readers that transformation comes through consistent practice and a willingness to be shaped by God’s word.

In Part 6, “Incarnate the Love of Christ,” Calhoun explores practices related to loving others as Christ did. The central ideas and most important information from this part of the book (Calhoun, 2015):

1. Introduction
   • Calhoun emphasizes that loving others is central to the Christian faith and that we are called to embody Christ’s love in our relationships and actions.
   • She highlights the importance of cultivating a heart of love and compassion for others.
2. Practices for Incarnating the Love of Christ
   1. Compassion
      • Calhoun encourages readers to be fully present with others in their joys and sorrows.
      • She suggests active listening, empathizing, and offering practical help.
   2. Control of the Tongue
      • Calhoun explores the biblical call to be mindful of our words and use them to build up and encourage others.
      • She suggests practices such as speaking truthfully, avoiding gossip, and using words to bless rather than a curse.
   3. Humility
      • Calhoun discusses the importance of humility in relationships and suggests practices such as admitting mistakes, seeking feedback, and serving others.
   4. Justice
      • Calhoun emphasizes the importance of pursuing justice for all people, especially the marginalized and oppressed.
      • She suggests ways to get involved in social justice work, such as volunteering, advocacy, and financial support.
   5. Stewardship
      • Calhoun encourages readers to care for the earth and its resources to show love for God’s creation and future generations.
      • She suggests reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting sustainable practices.
   6. Truth Telling
      • Calhoun explores the importance of honesty and integrity in relationships and suggests practices such as speaking truthfully, admitting mistakes, and being transparent.
3. Extending God’s Love to the World
   • Calhoun emphasizes that extending God’s love to the world involves individual practices and collective efforts to address systemic issues and promote justice and compassion.
   • She suggests ways to get involved in social justice work, such as volunteering, advocacy, and financial support.

Reference

Calhoun, A. A. (2015). Spiritual disciplines handbook: Practices that transform us. InterVarsity Press.