GSEM521 Spiritual Formation I

                                                                 Jon L. Dybdahl

 

                                                                   Outline No. 9

                                            Simplicity, Fasting, Solitude, and Retreat

 

I.          Simplicity

 

A.        Simplicity is closely related to stewardship – both deal with attitude and action toward what we have in life – time, money, talents, goods, etc.

 

B.         Both simplicity and stewardship are spiritual disciplines which profoundly affect our walk with God and others.

 

C.        Key is anxiety.  If we are anxious, we may have problems with simplicity.

 

D.        3 basic attitudes lead to simplicity (and stewardship)

 

1.         What we have we have received as a gift

 

2.         What we have is cared for by God

 

3.         What we have is available to others

 

E.         Debt is a major factor for many in our culture

 

Credit card debt

 

Car payments

 

Large mortgages, etc.

 

Often lead to

 

Anxiety

 

Overwork

 

Time constraints, etc.

 

 

II.         Fasting

 

A.        Fasting mentioned close to 40 times in Bible

B.         Never commanded, but is a valid option.  Most can use it with profit if done properly.

 

C.        Definition – completely or selectively or partially refraining from some substance or practice – food, (or certain foods), drink, talk, T.V./radio, reading, sex, etc.

 

D.        Reasons to fast

 

1.         Bible admonition and Bible characters

 

Example: Acts 13:2; 14:23

 

2.         Self-denial and discipline and penitence – against gluttony and addiction

 

3.         Association with special prayer and needs

 

4.         Save money and/or food for others

 

5.         Focuses and clarifies mind

 

6.         Physical benefits – rid body of toxins

 

7.         Often gives extra time for spiritual action

 

8.         Often associated with guidance and knowing God’s will

 

 

E.         Steps in fasting

 

1.         Should be choice – for right reason

 

2.         Understand your situation – know yourself

 

3.         Enter gradually (note Foster)

 

4.         Combine with prayer and other spiritual disciplines

 

5.         Open fasting is condemned (Matt. 6:16) Don’t make a show

 

 

III.       Solitude, Silence, and Retreat

 

A.        Clear Biblical example of retreat from ministry by Jesus and disciples.  Mk 1:13; 6:31, 32