Why Spiritual Disciplines Matter In 2025
The challenge with our spiritual state, unlike the human body, is that we cannot clearly see if we are overweight or out of shape. Exercise helps maintain the ideal weight or lose excess fat because when one engages in physical activity, they burn calories. Similarly, our spiritual health requires intentional exercise to stay fit and effective.
The Bible encourages us to value exercise, as seen in 1 Timothy 4:8: “For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.” While physical exercise has some benefits, Apostle Paul emphasizes a more fruitful exercise—spiritual discipline—which holds eternal value.
Just as a person who is physically out of shape faces restrictions in daily activities, someone who is spiritually unfit becomes limited in their capacity to resist the enemy and live victoriously. Many struggle unnecessarily because they lack spiritual strength, which comes from consistent practice of godly principles. Paul teaches that exercising godliness equips believers to experience the abundant life God promises, both now and in eternity.
When you engage in spiritual disciplines like prayer or fasting, it doesn’t benefit God—it benefits you. These practices enlarge your spiritual capacity, allowing your spirit to influence your outside world more effectively. However, fasting without understanding its purpose is merely a hunger strike. Spiritual disciplines are essential because they strengthen the spirit and remove barriers that hinder its full expression.
Spiritual obesity—a state of spiritual stagnation or neglect—is even more dangerous than physical obesity because life is governed by the spirit. A person’s spiritual health determines their ability to navigate life’s challenges and sustain God’s blessings. Your spiritual walk is personal and independent of how powerful your spiritual leader may be. Growth requires personal commitment to building and developing yourself.
To maintain spiritual health, practice disciplines such as fasting, studying the Word, worship, quiet times, and prayer. These activities keep believers spiritually fit and ready to receive and sustain God’s miracles. Without spiritual preparation, even if miracles are released, they cannot be fully carried or sustained.
The Bible highlights in 1 Corinthians 11 that many believers suffer weakness and sickness because they fail to discern the Lord’s body properly. This underscores the importance of understanding and applying God’s Word correctly. Spiritual disciplines like prayer, fasting, and studying the Word are foundational for Christian growth. However, many have replaced these essentials with a dependency on prophecy, leaving them spiritually unhealthy and ineffective.
This year, 2025, can be a turning point for your spiritual journey. Commit to practicing spiritual principles—prayer, fasting, and engaging with the Word. Join us in times of corporate prayer and fasting as we seek growth and access to the fullness of God’s promises. Let this be the year of transformation, where you develop spiritual muscles, strength, and understanding that lead to breakthroughs.
Remember, a vibrant Christian walk requires consistent effort in prayer, fasting, and the Word. May this year be marked by renewed discipline, spiritual growth, and the manifestation of God’s blessings in your life. Stay encouraged, stay committed, and stay blessed.
