Disciples of Lord Jesus Christ are called to counter cultural and radical disciples. Spiritual disciplines help a disciple to be productive, and useful vessels for Him. Psalmist states that he is delighted and rejoices in the law and statutes (Psalm 119:14-16). Self discipline leads to godliness (I Tim 4:7-8); that has three aspects: Self assessment (II cor 13:5), Self application (II Tim 2:15) and Self Accountability (Rom 14:7). Having positive attitude towards discipline is necessary.


Richard Foster lists twelve disciplines in three categories: 1. Inward: Meditation, Prayer, Fasting and Study; 2. Outward: Simplicity, Solitude, Submission and Service; 3. Corporate: Confession, Guidance, Worship and Celebration.


Meditation and study of Scripture was emphasized. The Bible could be heard, read, studies, memorized and meditated. A simple bible study method was taught to help disciples to study and meditate the Scripture. The method has three major steps: Observation, Interpretation and Application. Observing and noting the text for key words, context, history etc. Second, interpret the meaning of the text, so that the text is understood. Applying the truths learnt to transform each person’s life. Word of God transforms the Worldview of a person, that results in value transformation, which further results in transformation of institutions and the behavior of individuals and society. Four tools of Christian meditation are: Imagination, recollection, meditation of creation and meditation of day to day events.


Praying and fasting are important disciplines. Prayer is conversation with God that is based on relationship. The Lord’s prayer teaches seven relationships a believer has with God: 1. Father – Son; 2. Worthy of Worship- Worshipper; 3. King- Citizens of the Kingdom; 4. Master – Servant doing God’s will; 5. Provider – Needy; 6. Forgiver – Sinner and 7. Deliverer – Vulnerable, Weak. There are several models of prayer: Personal prayer, Fasting prayer – total fasting/partial fasting, Corporate prayer, Intercession, Special prayers, Pray at the same time in different places (Esther). Small group prayers etc.


ACTS is the acronym used for prayer: Adoration, Confession. Thanksgiving and Supplication. Supplication includes personal petition and intercession on behalf of others. “Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” (Jermiah 29:7) Praying, engaging and working for the city in which a disciple lives is very important.


The outward discipline of simplicity is antidote for materialism and consumerism that sweeps the world. The Christian Discipline of simplicity is an inward reality that results in an outward life-style. The rich young man rejected simple lifestyle of denying self and taking the cross and following Lord Jesus Christ.