THE MONDAY PRACTICE

Bringing Sunday’s Message Into Your Week

Message Title: Formed by the Spirit: How to Practice Prayer, Bible Study + Spiritual Gifts
Text: Romans 12:1–8, 2 Timothy 3:16–17, Luke 11:1–13
Series: Disruptive Discipleship in a Secular Age

Missed Sunday’s Message? Watch here.

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

This weekly practice is designed to help you not just hear the Word—but live it.
Take 15–30 minutes this week to engage with God personally. Use it in the morning, over coffee, during a walk, or before bed.

This is about presence, not performance.
Let it interrupt your hurry. Let it root you in grace. Let it open your life to the Spirit’s work.

SUMMARY: Formation That Fights the Noise

In a world of constant noise and digital formation, following Jesus must become intentional—even disruptive.

Every day, your heart is being shaped—by apps, algorithms, anxiety, and achievement. But true transformation doesn’t begin in the spotlight. It begins in the quiet place.

This week’s message invited us to return to three essential practices:
Prayer. Scripture. Spiritual Gifts.
These aren’t just spiritual "disciplines"—they’re relational rhythms that form us into the image of Christ.

We’re not just trying to have a quiet time.
We’re learning to live a Spirit-formed life.

PRACTICES FOR THE WEEK

Choose 2–3 practices to focus on throughout your week.

1. The First 15: Begin Each Day with God

Try this 15-minute daily rhythm (or adapt it):

Step 1 – Approach:
Sit in stillness. Acknowledge God’s presence.

“Here I am, Lord. I want to be with You.”

Step 2 – Scripture:
Read Romans 12:1–2 or Psalm 1 slowly.
Ask: What is God saying to me today?

Step 3 – Meditation:
Linger on one phrase. Let it confront, comfort, or call you.

Step 4 – Prayer:
Speak with God—adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and requests.

Step 5 – Contemplation:
End with 1–2 minutes of stillness and gratitude.

2. Pray Like Your Mom Did

If you had a parent, grandparent, or mentor who modeled prayer—honor their legacy this week by doing what they did:

  • Whisper blessings over someone’s name.

  • Kneel beside your bed.

  • Cry out for your kids, your spouse, your city.

Prayer doesn’t have to be impressive. Just real.

3. Spiritual Gift in Action

This week, ask: Where can I offer one spiritual gift God has given me?
Don’t wait for a spotlight. Serve someone quietly. Encourage a coworker. Give generously. Show mercy.

Not sure of your gift?
Ask someone close to you: “Where do you see me come alive when I serve?”
Then try something. Obedience reveals calling.

4. Scripture Before Screens

Before you check your phone, check in with God.
Let Scripture form your thoughts before media does.

Try reading Psalm 1 or Luke 11:1–13 each morning this week.

5. Rewrite Your Quiet Time

If your devotional life has become dry or duty-driven, try this shift:

  • From study → to surrender

  • From info → to intimacy

  • From check-the-box → to communion with God

Before reading, pray:

“God, I’m not here to impress You—I’m here to be with You. Speak. I’m listening.”

6. Sacred Pause Reminder

Set a daily alarm that says:
“Formed by the Spirit > Conformed by the World”
When it goes off, pause. Breathe. Pray:

“Holy Spirit, form me again. Even here.”

REFLECTIVE QUESTIONS

Use one each day for journaling or prayer:

  • Where in my life am I being formed more by the world than the Word?

  • What does my daily rhythm say about what I value?

  • How has my view of prayer or quiet time shifted over the years?

  • Where might God be inviting me to use my gift—but fear is holding me back?

  • Who formed me spiritually—and how can I honor their legacy?

GOSPEL TRUTH TO MEDITATE ON

“We don’t meet with God to prove ourselves. We meet with God to be formed by grace.”

You’re not behind. You’re not disqualified.
You’re invited.

CLOSING ENCOURAGEMENT

This week, you don’t need to perform—you need to pause.
You don’t need to impress—you need to be present.
Let God meet you where you are, and form you for where He’s sending you.

And if you were shaped by a praying mom, a wise grandmother, or a spiritual mentor—honor them this week by walking their path.
Let your life become the legacy that forms someone else.

You are being formed by something.
Let it be the Spirit of God.