Week 2: Intention and Will Day 10 - Friday

We all have certain rules or mottos that shape our direction like “Never give up,” “Never say never,” or “Just do it.” Developing a “rule for life” is a way of intentionally guiding the rhythm and shape of our days in order to direct us toward an end goal. In Acts 2:42 the early Christians “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer.” This rule was an effort to join with God in their transformation process of becoming like Jesus. Ultimately, a rule will help you love God more and be more open to His teachings. If it becomes a way of earning points with God, it should be thrown out.

Scripture:
• Read and meditate on Deuteronomy 30:11,15,16, 19-20.

Reflection:
• What unspoken rules currently govern or shape your life? How do you currently determine what you will and won’t do?

Practice:
• Take some time today and this weekend to write a “rule/rhythm for life” or a covenant with God. This is a living, changing document, but begin by creating a skeleton. Here are some questions to help you:
- When do you feel closest to God? What are the particular practices that open you to God?
- What do you currently do to realize your goals and longings? (work, study, pray, socialize, diet, work out) Which of these things hinder and help your spiritual transformation?
- What practices suit your daily, monthly, and yearly rhythm? What limitations are built into your life at this moment? What desires remain steady throughout?
- Where do you want to change? Where do you feel powerless to change?
- Choose several practices (these can change as you experience more, especially next week) that arise from your desire for God to transform you. Take into consideration the limits and realities of your current life.

Sample Rule for Life
• Dedicate every day (in the morning) to be present with God through…. (prayer, worship, gratitude, study)
Examine my day in the evening and pray this Psalm. Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way of everlasting.
• Worship the Lord alone and with others.
• Pray for others.
• Meet with a friend or mentor every month to discuss my journey and receive encouragement, teaching, and wisdom.
• Pray three times a day.
This is just a sample and it’s written very simply but it allows us to begin to shape our days so that we are intentionally opening ourselves to the grace of God.