A Christian rule of life is the purposeful ordering of one’s schedule and habits to produce certain spiritual fruits, specifically Christlikeness. The concept has its roots in fourth-century monastic practices, with the most well-known example being the Rule of St. Benedict. This rule was created to help a community of monks translate their faith into daily habits and rhythms, covering various aspects of communal living, worship, and personal conduct.
A rule of life provides structure and order, not for its own sake, but to facilitate spiritual growth and fruit-bearing. It acts like a trellis in a vineyard, supporting and directing the growth of the vine to maximize its fruitfulness. The purpose is to help individuals live a life that is pleasing to God by fostering habits that lead to holiness and sanctification.
While the Rule of St. Benedict provides a great segway, an example of modelling a purposeful ordering of one’s schedule, modern-day practices will vary from one tradition to the next. The scheduling depends on the individual and where their spirituality is with God. Schedules can change based on how busy one is, and often should, as their spiritual poster changes with God. Some may consider a morning prayer, a time of silence with God every morning, a Rule of Life for them. Another list of ways to incorporate prayer disciplines into your rule of life can be found here. At the same time, those purposely attending Celebrate Recovery every Tuesday to pray with their sister and brothers are also part of their Rule of Life.
Here are some other modern-day examples of incorporating activities in your rule of life.
- Spiritual Practices: Daily prayer, Scripture reading, Sabbath-keeping, fasting, and attending worship services.
- Relational Practices: Joining small groups, hosting meals, volunteering, and acts of service.
- Physical Practices: Exercising, healthy eating, and enjoying nature as a spiritual practice.
- Vocational Practices: Viewing work as worship, practicing generosity, and stewarding resources.
- Digital and Mental Practices: Limiting social media, mindful media use, silence, and solitude.
- Family and Home Practices: Family devotions, celebrating Christian holidays, and practicing hospitality.
Putting it into Practice
Jane invited Jesus Christ into her life early on but has always yearned for a deeper intimacy with God. She attends church somewhat regularly and has participated in various ad hoc Bible studies in the past. Now, having reached middle age, she wonders if there are routines she can actively adopt to develop a more consistent rhythm of intimacy with the Lord. After reflecting on this, Jane decides to incorporate a routine into her busy lifestyle and shares her plan with her accountability partner.
Morning
- Prayer (5–10 mins): Upon waking, Jane begins her day by expressing thanksgiving to God, surrendering her plans, and asking for His guidance.
- Scripture & Meditation (15–20 mins): She reads a passage slowly, reflects on its meaning, and considers how to apply its truths to her life.
- Journaling (5 mins): Jane writes her reflections in a journal she keeps by her bedside.
Midday
- Prayer Break (5 mins): During her lunch break at the office, Jane pauses to whisper a prayer, reconnecting with God. On stressful days, she openly shares her struggles with Him and seeks His grace.
- Scripture Memory or Devotional (5 mins): Jane uses the YouVersion Bible app on her iPhone to read the verse of the day after praying.
Evening
- Spiritual Reading (10 mins): To wind down, Jane relaxes in bed with a book or resource focused on spiritual growth.
- Reflection & Prayer (10–15 mins): Before sleeping, Jane practices the Prayer of Examen, reflecting on her day, confessing any shortcomings, and thanking God for moments of consolation. If she falls asleep during her reflection, she rests peacefully, knowing that the Lord holds her in His arms with love and security.
