It is the habit that is incorporated into all the others. At its core, prayer is conversing with God, and it is a critical way in which we participate in the work of God in the world, through communion with him.

Christian Meditation is one of the more difficult habits to master. It is not about emptying one’s mind (as in Eastern religions), rather it is about filling one’s mind with Christ. It is the habit of setting aside time to focus intently on one thing, and slowly allow God to reveal himself through it. Remember, don’t be discouraged if this is difficult or strange to you at first – with time and practice you will find it enlivening.

Fasting has been practiced by Christians throughout the centuries, and Jesus himself fasted. It is meant to focus your spiritual attention on Jesus, humble you by reminding you of your reliance on him, and help train you to not allow your cravings to enslave you. Christian fasting is not done for physical reasons, but for a specific spiritual purpose, and often God speaks to those fasting in unique ways.

There is immense spiritual advantage in studying many things, but as a church we will focus this month on studying the Bible. As you engage the Bible, approach it as a student trying to mine it for all it has for you. Don’t jump right to application – instead try to understand what is being said, and why, before answering the question, “what is it saying to me?”