Crafting Your Personal Rule of Life
Many Christians struggle with understanding discipleship, often feeling lost in how to grow spiritually. A Rule of Life offers a framework for intentionally organizing time and habits around Jesus, helping to counter distractions. By integrating small daily practices, weekly rhythms, and relational
For many Christians, discipleship feels vague:
“Just… follow Jesus more?”
“Try really hard to be better?”
“Be nicer at work?”
We want to pursue spiritual growth, but we don’t know how to structure our days so that it actually happens.
This is where an ancient Christian practice becomes incredibly helpful:
a Rule of Life.
What is a Rule of Life?
It’s not a list of rules.
It’s not legalistic.
It’s not rigid.
A Rule of Life is simply a framework — a way of intentionally organizing your time, habits, and priorities around Jesus.
Think of it like:
- a trellis that helps a vine grow upward
- a weekly rhythm that prevents drift
- a way of aligning your days with your deepest desire: to know and love God
Every person already has a rule of life — it just might be accidental.
Your schedule disciples you more than you realize:
- Your phone teaches you what to value.
- Your calendar shapes your priorities.
- Your habits form your heart.
A Rule of Life helps you become intentional about all of this.
Dallas Willard once wrote:
“The greatest threat to spiritual growth is not wickedness. It is distraction.”
A Rule of Life gently pushes back against distraction.
What Goes Into a Rule of Life?
Start small. Seriously — small.
This is not a spiritual boot camp.
Here are a few categories to consider:
1. Daily Practices
- A short morning prayer
- Reading a Psalm or Gospel passage
- A moment of silence before work
- A gratitude list at bedtime
2. Weekly Rhythms
- Sabbath rest
- Worship with your church
- A meal with friends or family
- Time outdoors without screens
3. Relational Commitments
- Regular time with a spiritual friend or mentor
- Practicing forgiveness quickly
- Checking in with someone who needs encouragement
4. Service & Mission
- Volunteering
- Supporting someone quietly
- Practicing hospitality
The Rule of Life Test
Ask yourself:
“Is this sustainable? Does this help me pay attention to Jesus?”
If yes — keep it.
If no — adjust it.
Your Rule is not a burden.
It’s a way of cooperating with grace.
The Invitation
You don’t drift into discipleship.
You become a disciple on purpose, one small practice at a time.
A Rule of Life gives your spiritual life a gentle but meaningful structure — not to impress God, but to become open to Him.