Practicing spiritual disciplines for personal growth does not violate grace. When we cling to the practical disciplines given in Scripture, we are growing "in the grace" of Christ (2 Pet 3:18). God promised to strengthen us "in the grace that is in Christ Jesus Tim 2:1), and the tools given to us for growth are a vital fulfillment of that promise. When we strive in the disciplines of His grace, it is an act of faith and humble obedience. Remember, the same God who despises legalism also commands diligent effort to experience growth (2 Pet 1:5). If we seek to grow apart from the means God has given, we will be striving in our own efforts, despite labeling it grace. You can't claim to revel in the glorious grace of God and reject the means by which He bestows that grace. When we detach ourselves from the disciplines God commanded and promised to bless, we are seeking sanctification on our terms. This, of course, will never work. Growth in grace happens only on God's terms.
Adapted from Free To Be Holy - The Liberating Grace of Walking by Faith by Jerry Wragg & Paul Shirley
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