God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 Corinthians 1:9

Detectives often ask, “Who benefits?” God calls us to study His Word, pray, praise, and sing to Him, both alone and with others. Contemplating the spiritual disciplines that God invites me to practice, I wonder, “Who benefits?” We know Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for training us in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). God is omniscient and already knows our needs; however, our anxiety calms when sharing our heart with Him, setting the stage for praise when He answers (Philippians 4:6). We are to be filled with the righteousness that comes from Jesus’ sacrifice thus bringing God praise (Philippians 1:10-11). Psalm 96 commands us to sing a new song and tell of His salvation. Who benefits from these disciplines? Obedience in spiritual disciplines grows our faith, readying us to witness. Surely, it is we and the kingdom of heaven who benefit.

Jill Rodenbeck
Fort Wayne, IN

Father, strengthen our efforts to pray, praise, and study Scripture to the benefit of Your people. Amen.

Reflect: To which spiritual discipline can I give more attention in this season of life?

Read: Matthew 26:41 and Romans 15:8-13