We are designed for discipleship, which means we are designed for rhythms. But this foundational reality is at times ignored to the detriment of spiritual formation. Here are 3 reasons rhythms are crucial for discipleship:
1. Balance Is a Myth—Life Is Rhythmic
Scripture reveals that there are seasons and rhythms to life—birth and death, joy and sorrow, kingdoms that rise and fall. Yet, we often believe that we can somehow balance the complexities of modern life. Health, fitness, career, finances, relationships, spiritual growth—the list goes on and on. But balance, as we often define it, is an illusion. Life, instead, is rhythmic.
As church leaders, we have the opportunity and responsibility to help our congregations understand life as it truly is: not a constant balancing act, but a dynamic rhythm. By creating calendars, events, and on-ramps into biblical community that ebb and flow with life outside of Sunday services, we invite people to live in sync with God’s rhythms.
2. Defined Rhythms Provide Structure
When we talk about rhythms, we’re referring to the spiritual habits and disciplines outlined in Acts 2, practiced by the early church. These rhythms helped create a community united in their purpose and spiritual growth. They weren’t just abstract ideas; they were daily, actionable practices that shaped lives. Information alone is insufficient in discipleship—it's action and intentionality that truly define a disciple.
As a church, consider the seven rhythms of Rooted not as a comprehensive list, but as a starting point. Craft teaching series and sermons around these rhythms, and offer challenges and opportunities for your congregation to experience God through these practices. Like the early church, come together in common practices that foster growth and unity as one body.
3. Rhythms Are Actionable and Transformational
The seven rhythms of Rooted are all experiential—Daily Devotion, Prayer, Repentance, Sacrificial Generosity, Serving the Community, Sharing Your Story, and Worship. These rhythms are not passive; they require action. Consistently living them out cultivates spiritual growth and maturity, so teaching and exhortation must be paired with practice and application.
James 1:23 reminds us that discipleship is about being a “doer of the word” rather than just a hearer. Through daily devotion, prayer, and scripture, we see God and ourselves more clearly. In fellowship and accountability with others, we grow together. And through service, generosity, and evangelism, we put our faith into action, becoming agents of God’s Kingdom in the world. This is rhythmic discipleship.
I invite you to explore how the seven rhythms of Rooted can provide structure and direction for your church. Reach out to coaching@experiencerooted.com to connect with a Rooted Network coach and learn more.
----------
By Derek Alonzi, Rooted Network Coach