For leaders to experience vitality in their walk with Christ and in service to others, it’s essential that they consider Crafting a Rule of Life, the topic and title of my latest book with InterVarsity Press. When a leader is aware of his/her unique geography in the Kingdom of God, they begin to recognize with clarity God’s thumbprint on their life, and respond with a growing desire to fulfill their particular footprint for faithful, daily living.

What is a personal rule of life? It is “a holistic description of the Spirit-empowered rhythms and relationships that create, redeem, sustain, and transform the life God invites you to humbly fulfill for Christ’s glory.” To discover one’s rule of life begins by answering some fundamental questions: Roles: What are my primary relationships? Gifts: What are my God-given gifts, talents, and temperament? Desires: What are my deepest longings and core values? Vision: What is the intentional passion God has planted in me? Mission: What am I currently doing to pursue my vision? Sitting with the biblical text and considering these questions takes time and prayer-filled effort. None of these are answered quickly, but instead carefully and deliberately, and in the context of one’s faith community.

After answering these questions which frame one’s rule of life, forming one’s rule of life includes all the major areas of particularity that define our daily journey both descriptively and prescriptively. These include our spiritual, relational, physical, financial, and missional priorities. Looking at each of these areas one at a time will help weave together a personal rule of life that engages all the senses and brings to life all major areas of personal development. God’s invitation in each of these areas is what one needs to listen for, and then respond to the initiatives of the Spirit in every regard. Here it’s important to interview the Lord and seek His face in the primary places of personal and spiritual growth. And, recognize that along the way these specifics will be modified according to life circumstances and new realities.

Fulfilling a personal rule of life happens in the context of Christian community. We don’t fully understand or embrace our rule of life in isolation…we need our spiritual friends and community to affirm, celebrate and enhance the living out of our rule for the honor and glory of God and His collective call to all of us in building up His Kingdom and strengthening His Church. This is the invitation to the well-ordered way. A way of life that re-orders our loves and re-defines our priorities that keep us focused on loving and serving God. I hope you’re embracing this opportunity with joy and gladness!

Join the community of like-hearted disciples who are crafting their rule of life and learning together how best to embody this way of life at www.RuleofLife.com – the website for all things “Rule of Life”! Let us know how we can come alongside you in this journey. “You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand” Psalm 16:11.