Rule of Life
A Rule of Life functions like a trellis planted in the soil of our lives, helping us grow and flourish throughout our journey of following Jesus. It’s been said that we achieve inner peace when our schedule is aligned with our values. A Rule of Life is simply a tool to that end. Rather than a rigid, legalistic to-do list, it’s a life-giving structure for freedom, growth, and joy.
There’s no “right” way to make a rule of life, just as there’s no official, orthodox Rule of Life that’s been passed down over the millennia. There are however best practices we would all be wise to incorporate at some level, no matter our personality or stage of life: Sabbath, Prayer, Fasting, Solitude, Generosity, Scripture, Community, Service, and Witness.
Building your Rule of Life
There’s no one-size fits all approach, so do it however you want! Make your own or do it with a few friends. Program it in a spreadsheet or draw it on a canvas: lean into your creativity.
Below is a Rule of Life Builder from our friends at Practicing the Way, to get you started. There’s plenty of other helpful resources there too which we use during our midweek Tables (small groups). Follow the link to create your own free account.
We’ve also created an example Rule of Life to get you inspired, and a printable template for those who prefer pen and paper.
Recommended Reading
Practicing the Way - John Mark Comer
The Disciple - Lucy Peppiatt
A Long Obedience in the Same Direction - Eugene Peterson
Celebration of Discipline - Richard Foster