Instructions for developing

A Rule of Life is an intentional pattern of spiritual disciplines that provides structure and direction for growth in holiness. A Rule establishes a rhythm for life in which is helpful for being formed by the Spirit, a rhythm that reflects a love for God and respect for how he has made us. The disciplines which we build into our rhythm of life help us to shed the “old self” and allow our “new self” in Christ to be formed. Spiritual disciplines are means of grace by which God can nourish us. Ultimately a Rule should help you to love God more, so if it becomes a legalistic way of earning points with God or impressing others, it should be scrapped. If the traditional, ancient term “rule” concerns you because it sounds legalistic, think of “rule” as a“rhythm of life” or as a “Curriculum in Christlikeness” (Dallas Willard), or as a “Game Plan for Morphing” (John Ortberg). 
In order to be life-giving, a Rule must be realistic! It is not an ideal toward which you are striving to soar. Instead, your initial Rule should be a minimum standard for your life that you do not want to drop below. It’s a realistic level of engaging in the spiritual disciplines for which you can honestly and truly be held accountable. 

Rules will vary widely, depending on the character and life situation of a person. Not only will people choose different disciplines but how the disciplines are practiced will also vary. Although every believer should pray, for example, the frequency or length or times or kind of prayer will differ. Thomas à Kempis writes, “All cannot use the same kind of spiritual exercises, but one suits this person, and another that. Different devotions are suited also to the seasons [of 
life]....” The Rule which you write should include three things: a self-assessment, an explanation of how you will practice your chosen disciplines, and your form of accountability. First, provide a clear self-assessment that briefly describes your current situation in life–family responsibilities, work schedule, and other life circumstances. Your self-assessment should also reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of your character. Are you blessed, for example, with self-control, a compassionate heart, a bright mind, or a spirit of joy? Which vices do you most struggle with? It might be helpful to evaluate yourself in relation to the 7 deadly sins and their opposites: 
   Sloth — Fruitfulness (not productivity) 
   Envy — Love 
   Greed — Generosity 
   Pride — Humility 
   Anger — Gentleness 
   Lust — Chastity 
   Gluttony — Self-denial, moderation

If you struggle with anger, for example, keep a journal for a week, noting what you get angry about and why, and rating each incident. Once you’ve identified a weakness, you can do something about it. In general, talk over your self-assessment with someone who knows you well and ask for that person’s candid feedback. Beginning your Rule with an honest self-assessment will push you to develop a rhythm of life which is unique to your personality, circumstances, and needs. Second, describe the way in which you will practice specific disciplines. Your Rule should include an explanation of why your choices not only fit your situation in life but also how they address areas where you especially need discipline and growth. In other words, describe how your Rule contributes to the goal of your spiritual formation, namely, being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others. Always remember this goal as you develop your Rule. Making choices about specific disciplines requires prayer and wisdom. As you decide on specific practices (e.g. how and when to pray, serve, practice simplicity, etc