Spiritual Growth Exercises

Spiritual growth exercises provide a helpful way for you to spend time with God. Taking time to be formed in Christ is essential in order to build a strong relationship with him. Spiritual formation, however, must be seen as a process not an activity. Robert Mulholland views it as a journey, not a destination. He refers to it as a “pilgrimage of deepening responsiveness to God’s control of our life and being”.

Sometimes an exercise may engage primarily your mind; other times, primarily your heart. But it is helpful if you can connect both your head and heart as you spend time with God. This helps unite "what you know" with "what you feel" so that you can actually experience God.

Romans 12:2 challenges us to be transformed by the renewing of our mind. But we are also reminded in Proverbs 4:23 that our heart is the wellspring (or starting point) of life. Both of these are essential in strengthening our connection with God.

Note: If you have been hurt in a relationship with an authority figure (such as your father) you may find it difficult to connect with a "heavenly father" because of a fear of rejection or a lack of trust. Check out the section on emotional growth for some tips on dealing with this issue.

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