Spiritual disciplines are historically and biblically rooted ways to deepen your relationship with God. So says the Rev. Dr. Jeff Loach.

Although some people can get tripped up by the word discipline, they neednt be. These are faith-based practices which form you to be more like Jesus. And no, theyre not just for spiritual superstars, but people like you and me who have bills to pay, meals to make, and knees to bandage.

In this episode, Jeff and I talk about some of the key spiritual disciplines, how they shape you, how they help you love others, how to grow in an age of superficiality, and the role of the home and church in this process. Advice is also provided for those who feel stuck.

Jeff is an adjunct professor of spiritual formation at Tyndale Seminary, a pastor, the former central Ontario District Director for the Canadian Bible Society, and an oblate of the Order of St. Benedict.

In this conversationwhich is both insightful and down-to-earthJeff speaks from the heart as he pulls from his own study, teaching, and years of experience.

You can listen on the podcast, or watch on YouTube.

Here are the topics we discuss, along with a few key quotes:

How would you define spiritual disciplines to a novice?

Spiritual disciplines are historically and biblically rooted ways to deepen your relationship with God.

Spiritual disciplines are for all Christians, not just spiritual superstars.

Bible-reading, Prayer (possibly including Silence and Solitude), Worship, Fasting, Holy Reading, Discernment, A Rule of Life, Giving, Journaling

Superficiality is one of the unsung curses of contemporary society.

The Lord invites us to go deepand its the disciplines that help us do that.

What role do the disciplines play in spiritual growth and becoming more like Christ?

The reason we do spiritual disciplines is to be more like Jesus.

How do spiritual disciplines help us love others as we are called to do?

Spiritual formation: the process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others. -Robert Mulholland Jr, Invitation to a Journey

What might you say to someone who feels like their life is busy and hectic, and is discouraged about where they are in their spiritual growth?

God doesnt expect us to grow on our own.

How should young people be introduced to spiritual disciplines?

The relationship between youth ministry at church and what happens in the home.