Reflections on Spiritual Disciplines Handbook by Adele Ahlberg Calhoun
Practicing the Presence: Answer all reflection questions in 2-3 sentences each.
Where do your thoughts go when they aren’t focused on work or diverted by amusement?
Usually my thoughts go to my family and church when they aren’t focused on work or amusement. I think of my wife, kids and grandkids. My thoughts also go towards God and wonder how He can use me that day.
What do these thoughts reveal about your concerns and priorities?
These thoughts reveal to me my love and concern for my family and church. I can judge how my day is going by seeing how long it takes me to adjust my thoughts from any concerns I have with my loved ones to God. If it’s a good day, then I can quickly move to God and meditate on Him.
How aware are you of the possibility of meeting God during your work day?
Not only am I aware of the possibility of meeting God during my work day, I anticipate those times. Most mornings, on my way to work, while worshipping and praying in my car, I will ask Him to use me however He deems fit that day. Most days, I will be looking for an opportunity to share His love with a co-worker.
What is it like for you when God shows up at an unexpected moment?
I feel incredibly loved and trusted when God shows up unexpectedly. I receive a sense of acceptance and purpose. Think about it, the God of the universe shows up and gets my attention during the day. I love it. It energizes me to walk harder towards Him.
How easy is it for God to get your attention?
Through my journey of relationship with Jesus, it has become fairly easy for Him to get my attention. I am in a habit of asking Him to speak to me, so I attempt to live moment by moment waiting to hear His voice.
When are you best able to hear God’s still, small voice?
When I am actively listening for Him during my worship time is the best time for me to hear God’s voice. My habit is to quiet myself and pray a simple prayer, “Speak Lord”. Then, I wait for Him to speak for He is faithful.
What would it look like for you to intentionally seek deeper intimacy with God?
Some of my habits, such as spending time in front of my TV and phone, would decrease when I am intentionally seeking a deeper intimacy with God. I also would be quieter throughout the day, since I would be positioning myself to listen.
Complete Spiritual Exercise 6 and reflect on your experience in 100-200 words.
Decide to stop several times throughout the day to pay attention to god and practice his presence. What was it like for me?
I loved this exercise. I do attempt to intentionally stop throughout the day to practice His presence. Usually during my breaks and lunch, I will spend a few minutes resetting my day. Taking a moment to reflect on His love and grace while asking Him to continue to be with me throughout the rest of the day. I usually will listen to a song, “Nothing Else” by Cody Carnes (Carnes) is my go to song in this season. I love the lyrics of this song and says exactly what I want to during this time. This time of intimacy throughout the day is an incredible shot of His love, grace and power to ensure that He is forever in the front of my mind. It allows me to cast off any dust from the moments before and cleanse me for the upcoming tasks.
Reflections on IJ (Mulholland)
Confrontation and consecration. These two words are the theme I hear throughout this chapter. Through our willingness to confront our Christ unlikeness, we are able to see the need of our savior working in our lives. Consecration is our willingness to say “yes” to Him to change us. We need to be able to be willing to face the truth and be willing to allow Him to do as He wills.
Works Cited
Carnes, Cody. “Nothing Else.” 2019.
Mulholland Jr., M. Robert. Invitation to a Journey. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2016.
Discovering His Vision 
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