BECOMING LIKE JESUS: THE ANCIENT PRACTICE OF THE SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES
Every Christian aims to become more like Jesus, but this only happens with intentionality—just as Jesus Himself lived with purpose. The key to Christlikeness is found in what we call spiritual disciplines—the habits and practices that shape our hearts, minds, and actions to reflect Him.
Jesus modeled a life of discipline. He immersed Himself in Scripture, spent hours in prayer, fasted, and regularly withdrew to be alone with the Father. If we want to grow into His likeness, we must embrace these same practices.
Jesus Knew His Bible
Jesus’ entire ministry was built on Scripture. When tempted in the wilderness, He responded with “It is written” (Matthew 4:4). When teaching, He quoted the Law and the Prophets. Even on the cross, He spoke the words of the Psalms. If the Son of God lived by Scripture, how much more should we?
Regular Bible reading and study anchor us in truth and renew our minds (Romans 12:2). It teaches us God’s character, convicts us of sin, and equips us to live righteously (2 Timothy 3:16). The more we fill our hearts with God’s Word, the more our thoughts, words, and actions align with Jesus.
Jesus Prayed Constantly
Jesus lived in constant communion with the Father. He prayed before major decisions, such as choosing His disciples (Luke 6:12). He prayed in times of sorrow, like in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:39). He even prayed for those who crucified Him (Luke 23:34).
If we neglect prayer, we miss the intimacy with God that Jesus demonstrated. Prayer strengthens our faith, provides direction, and deepens our dependence on the Lord. To be like Jesus, we must cultivate a prayer life that is more than just requests—it must be a lifestyle of relationship with the Father.
Jesus Practiced Fasting and Solitude
Before beginning His ministry, Jesus fasted for forty days (Matthew 4:2). Throughout His life, He regularly withdrew from the crowds to be alone with God (Mark 1:35). Fasting and solitude train our hearts to hunger for God above all else. They silence the distractions of life and create space for His presence to reshape us.
Modern life is filled with noise, but Christlike transformation happens in stillness. When we step away from busyness, we make room to hear God’s voice and grow in spiritual strength.
The Disciplines of Discipleship
Spiritual disciplines are not about legalism; they are about love. They position us to be transformed by God’s Spirit. The more we practice them, the more we resemble Jesus.
“Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.” (1 John 2:6)
Other spiritual disciplines include:
- Worship: Glorifying God in Spirit and Truth.
- Confession: Acknowledging and repenting of sin; speaking to someone about it.
- Fellowship: Developing Christ-centered relationships.
- Service: Serving others as Jesus did.
- Evangelism: Sharing the Gospel and leading others to Christ.
- Sabbath & Rest: Embracing God’s gift to refresh and renew.
Which of these disciplines do you need to grow in? Consider how Christ practiced them and how they can shape your walk with Him.