The Men of Iron Minute

by Chad Zueck | Director of Content Creation

Thomas A Kempis

Our recent blogs have targeted change and habits required to see lasting change. On Friday, I shared Thomas A Kempis’ quote about fighting like a man, and how habit is overcome with habit. All true, but there’s more. Spiritual growth is not math nor is it easily predictable. Spiritual growth is not linear (i.e. I do this, I get this, I arrive here.) Men can grow spiritually, but the methods used for connecting with God vary from person to person, season to season. For example, a man may dig deeper into prayer in this season, and another may find his prayer life lackluster, so he adds meditation as an enhancement. Yet another man may explore bible reading and decide that journaling his thoughts is useful to help him slow down and subsequently not “go through the motions.” Thomas A Kempis’ writings are an example of this for me.

A Kempis’ book, Imitation of Christ, has been a useful tool in my morning spiritual disciplines. Last year, I sensed a spiritual slump happening. I was reading the bible and praying, but I started going through the motions. I occasionally use breathing exercises to better engage with God and reduce anxiety, but I needed something that I hadn’t explored. I decided upon a “read and reflect” version of the classic, Imitation of Christ. Point being. You can’t “box in” spiritual growth. Spiritual growth must have space, creativity, and implementation to expand and grow beyond our comfort and control. Is your spiritual life about to flame out? Does it need a bit of fuel? As Peterson reminds us in his paraphrase of Romans 12:11, “Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame.” We work with God to grow spiritually. The growth is not linear, but it is measurable. It is not calculated, but it is clear.

Over the next few days, I will add quotes and stories that connect to what God has taught me through the journey with Thomas A Kempis’ Imitation of Christ.

Dare greatly.

Live humbly.

Be a better man.

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