Can you really experience joy by practicing discipline?

Discipline kind of has a dirty connotation. Discipline makes us think of hard work, of grueling decision-making, and of — let’s be honest — a lack of joy.

But can practicing spiritual discipline really lead to the opposite of that description? Can spiritual discipline lead to true joy?

Nathan Foster is a professor of social work at Spring Arbor University and he joined Dr. Bill Maier Live! to talk about his new book,  and to talk about how practicing spiritual disciplines really can lead to true fulfillment and joy.

He says,

“It seems to me that we live in a culture here in America in this day and age where there’s an undercurrent of self-disdain, that very few people feel like they measure up; like they’re good enough. And there’s another reason for that sociologically, but I think it’s a real epidemic. And then we bring that into the Christian life and it is so destructive. But I think correcting  some of that is a very long process, but I think it starts with being in God’s love and understanding that and growing in that.”

Foster says we grow and experience true joy when we practice spiritual disciplines such as solitude and perpetual prayer. But Foster also reminds us to be careful of falling into the pit of legalism:

Highlight: avoiding legalism

You can hear Dr. Bill’s full conversation with Nathan Foster at the top of this post.

Foster

Foster

Nathan is an associate professor of social work and theology at Spring Arbor University, where he holds the Andrews Chair in Spiritual Formation. He is director of teaching ministries for Renovaré as well as a licensed clinical social worker, certified addictions counselor, public speaker, bassist for Christy & The Professors, and the author of Wisdom Chaser: Finding My Father at 14,000 Feet. He currently resides in Michigan with his wife and two children.