Spiritual Assessment Instructions: This Assignment Has 3 Par

Spiritual Assessment Instructions This assignment has 3 parts that will

This assignment has 3 parts that will be submitted as one paper in Module/Week 3. Each part is intended to direct you toward an assessment of your spiritual life in its current form. Without knowing where you are spiritually, it will not be possible for you to move forward; thus, this assignment will focus on an assessment of your spiritual life. This assignment will challenge you to assess your spiritual life so that you can see how you need to mature. In order to accomplish this goal, this assignment will require a level of vulnerability and honesty which can result in growth (if you embrace the process).

Approach this assignment prayerfully, asking the Lord to reveal to you how He wants to work in your heart throughout this course and over the remainder of your life. This assignment must be 1,000–1,250 words.

Part 1: Describe how you practice the spiritual disciplines

In this section, describe your current practice of the spiritual disciplines. If you need help knowing which disciplines to include, refer to Whitney’s textbook as an example. Specifically, examine which disciplines are commonly applied in your life and how regularly you apply them. Be honest here—dishonesty will not impress anyone, and your current investment in the disciplines is not part of the grade. How thoroughly you describe your investment is what will be graded in this section.

Part 2: Discuss the common temptations that you face on a regular basis

In this section, discuss the temptations you face. After reading through Killjoys, consider how the authors have described the common temptations that you face on a daily basis. Some of these temptations are just that—temptations only. In other cases, these temptations have become full-blown sins as you have given into temptation. Be specific and honest about which category describes you and what the common temptations are in your everyday life.

Such sins may include laziness, anger, pride, covetousness, gluttony, lust, envy, and gossip. Be specific about whether these are common temptations or common sins, addictions, or bondages. You cannot begin to address these temptations or sins unless you are willing to admit the reality of their presence in your life.

Part 3: Evaluate your weaknesses and blind spots as they relate to your Christian walk

In this section, evaluate where the blind spots are in your life. If you need help identifying them, ask a close friend or family member. This is a very important aspect of this assignment as it will help lay the foundation for moving toward a spiritual growth plan. This assignment is due by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on Sunday of Module/Week 3.

Paper For Above instruction

As human beings navigating a spiritual journey, self-awareness and honest assessment are crucial to spiritual growth. This paper aims to reflect on my current spiritual practices, identify ongoing temptations, and recognize personal blind spots to foster a clearer understanding of my spiritual health and areas needing development.

Part 1: Practicing the Spiritual Disciplines

My engagement with the spiritual disciplines is a vital component of my daily faith walk. I regularly incorporate prayer into my daily routine, dedicating specific times in the morning and evening to communicate with God, expressing gratitude, seeking guidance, and making supplications. Scripture reading is another discipline I practice consistently; I aim to read the Bible at least five days a week, often using devotional guides to deepen my understanding and application of biblical truths.

Fasting, though less frequent, is practiced periodically, especially during Lent or times of particular spiritual need. Additionally, I participate in communal disciplines such as attending weekly church services and small group gatherings, which foster fellowship and accountability. Personal discipline also includes engaging in reflection and journaling, helping me process what I learn and how I am growing spiritually. These practices are vital, though I recognize that consistency can improve, particularly with fasting and personal study.

Overall, my investment in the spiritual disciplines reflects genuine effort, but I am mindful that spiritual maturity requires intentionality, frequency, and depth beyond mere routine—qualities I seek to cultivate further through prayer and discipline.

Part 2: Common Temptations Faced

Like many believers, I face a range of temptations that challenge my spiritual walk. One prevalent temptation is pride—an inclination to seek recognition or validation for my efforts and achievements, which can distract me from humility and dependence on God's grace. Pride often manifests subtly, convincing me that my actions are sufficient without God's ongoing help, leading me to overlook the importance of grace and humility.

Another common temptation relates to laziness or procrastination, which can hinder my spiritual growth by diminishing time spent in prayer, study, or service. This temptation often results from busyness or complacency, and its presence sometimes causes guilt that I must consciously overcome.

Anger and irritability are also temptations, particularly when faced with frustrating situations or conflicts, risking the deterioration of relationships and obstructing the fruit of the Spirit. I find that these temptations can sometimes escalate into sin if I do not exercise self-control or rely on God's strength.

While not as frequent, covetousness and envy occasionally surface, especially when comparing my achievements or possessions with others. This mindset can breed dissatisfaction and distract from contentment, which is rooted in trusting God's provision.

In summary, these temptations exist in different categories—some are mere temptations, while others have manifested as sins or patterns of bondage that require ongoing vigilance and spiritual intervention.

Part 3: Weaknesses and Blind Spots

After introspection and seeking input from trusted friends and family, I recognize certain weaknesses and blind spots that hinder my spiritual growth. One significant blind spot is my tendency toward self-reliance; I often attempt to resolve issues independently rather than fully depending on God's guidance and strength. This independence can lead to pride and diminish my reliance on divine wisdom.

Another blind spot involves inattentiveness to the needs and spiritual maturity of others around me. I sometimes become preoccupied with my personal growth and neglect opportunities to serve or mentor others, which stunts my growth in humility and compassion.

I also acknowledge a tendency toward complacency, especially when I believe I have made sufficient progress, which can lead to spiritual stagnation. Recognizing this requires humility and a continual desire for growth.

To address these blind spots, I intend to implement more accountability measures, such as journaling prayers for dependence on God, engaging in active service, and seeking regular feedback from mentors. By cultivating awareness and humility, I aim to move towards a more obedient and spiritually mature walk with Christ.

Overall, these assessments reveal that while I have a foundation of sincere faith, ongoing vulnerability, and honest reflection are essential for continuous growth and maturity in my spiritual journey.

References

• Whitney, V. (2014). Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life. NavPress.
• Killjoys, H. (2012). Killjoys: Overcoming the temptations every believer faces. Bethany House.
• Willard, D. (1998). The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding how God changes lives. HarperOne.
• Foster, R. J. (1998). Celebration of Discipline: The path to spiritual growth. HarperOne.
• Miller, D. L. (2010). Authentic Christianity: Loving Christ in Spirit and truth. Nelson.
• Ortberg, J. (2011). The Life You've Always Wanted: Spiritual growth for everyday people. Zondervan.
• Lewis, C. S. (1952). Mere Christianity. HarperOne.
• Piper, J. (2000). Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian hedonist. Multnomah.
• Gregg, M. (2009). The Way of the Heart: Connecting with God through prayer, wisdom, and silence. IVP Academic.
• Bonhoeffer, D. (1959). The Cost of Discipleship. Touchstone.