Finding Rest in the Rhythms of LifeSample

Practicing the Rhythms

The word “rhythm” is usually a musical term, but it can also be defined as a regularly recurring sequence of events, actions, or processes. It’s in these events, actions, and processes that we are hoping and preparing to commune with God. I’ve also seen the word defined as a “movement marked by the regulated succession of strong and weak elements, or of opposite or different conditions.” It is here that I find a bit more of a connection to my situation. In the weakness of my flesh and selfish desires, I need to submit to the strength and beauty of the presence of God in my life. 

There are various types of spiritual temperaments, and it is important that we attempt to determine the ways that we best connect with God. Richard Foster once wrote, “By themselves, the Spiritual Disciplines can do nothing; they can only get us to the place where something can be done.” [1] It is our hope that as we lean into the rhythms that are pathways to a connection with Christ, we will experience communion and intimacy with Him. In doing so, it fuels and sustains our ability to live from the rest that we have discovered. It says in Galatians 5:17 that “the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.” 

As followers of Jesus who have discovered soul rest, we still are tempted to allow our flesh to determine our decisions and processes in life. Because of this, we have to establish practices, or rhythms, that will point us to the source of power to move forward in a way that honors God. It goes on to say in Galatians 5:18 that if we are “led by the Spirit,” we will walk in step with what the Lord desires of us.

Rhythms help to position us to be prepared to receive from the Lord. Practicing these disciplines helps us combat too much self-appreciation and elevates our awareness of our need for a savior.

[1] Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth (New York: Harper) 1998.