Rule of Life

As an ancient monastic tradition of the Church, followers of Jesus would create a Rule of Life to help guide their spiritual growth and interactions with others and the world. It usually includes some combination of stating guiding values and regular practices, including rhythms that result in both self-care and carrying out one’s God-given mission. 

A Rule of Life can take on multiple formats. It can be extremely detailed or more general. Whatever it may include, it is an intentional plan of spiritual and other practices that is customized to each person.  Often included are specific rhythms of prayer, solitude, Bible reading, fellowship with others, spiritual director meetings, exercise and sleep commitments, and practices that enable thriving spiritually, physically, and emotionally. 

My own experience of having a Rule of Life has only been positive, rather than guilt or obligation centered. One denomination that I tracked with that required its pastors to create a Rule of Life had two years of no disciplinary issues following the implementation. 

Some leaders may find it helpful to create a dashboard that they regularly report on their progress in following through on the practices. 

There are multiple free online resources that can help you develop a Rule of Life:

1. John Mark Comer has a Rule of Life Builder.

2. Pete Scazzero has a Rule of Life Workbook. 

3. Praxis, the community of redemptive entrepreneurs, has a Rule of Life Playbook.