Spiritual Disciplines for Ordinary People

Ignite a deeper, more vibrant relationship with God that impacts not just your spiritual life but every aspect of your daily life. This is the central message of "The Life You've Always Wanted" by John Ortberg. The book calls readers back to the dynamic heartbeat of Christianity – God's power to bring change and growth – and reveals how and why transformation takes place.

The book offers modern perspectives on the ancient path of the spiritual disciplines, but it is more than just a book about things to do to be a good Christian. It is a road map toward true transformation that starts not with the individual but with the person at the journey's end – Jesus Christ.

The secret to finishing a race, as with a marathon runner, lies not in trying harder, but in training consistently – training with the spiritual disciplines. These disciplines are neither taskmasters nor ends in themselves; rather, they are exercises that build strength and endurance for the road of growth. The fruit of the Spirit – joy, peace, kindness, and others – are the signposts along the way.

Paved with humor and sparkling anecdotes, "The Life You've Always Wanted" is an encouraging and challenging approach to a Christian life that's worth living – a life on the edge that fills an ordinary world with new meaning, hope, change, and joy. John Ortberg calls readers to this dynamic journey, one that has the power to transform not just their spiritual lives but every aspect of their daily existence.

The book is a refreshing take on the spiritual disciplines, moving beyond mere duty and legalism to a vibrant, life-giving pursuit of God. Ortberg emphasizes that the true purpose of these disciplines is not to earn God's favor or to prove one's worthiness, but to open oneself up to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

Throughout the book, Ortberg weaves together biblical insights, personal stories, and practical wisdom, inviting readers to embark on a transformative journey that will leave them changed from the inside out. He encourages readers to embrace the spiritual disciplines not as burdensome tasks, but as means of grace that can deepen their relationship with Christ and cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in their lives.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of balance and wholeness in the Christian life. Ortberg challenges readers to avoid the trap of compartmentalizing their faith, relegating it to a small corner of their lives. Instead, he calls them to integrate their spiritual lives with every aspect of their daily existence, allowing God's transformative power to permeate and infuse their work, relationships, and decision-making.

Overall, "The Life You've Always Wanted" is a compelling and insightful exploration of the spiritual disciplines, offering a vision of the Christian life that is dynamic, joy-filled, and deeply meaningful. Readers will be inspired to embrace this transformative journey, trusting in God's power to bring about lasting change in their lives.

product information: