About a month ago I read Reveal, the study released by Willowcreek after extensive research on what makes people grow spiritually. As many of you have noticed, that study is shaking things up. I think anything that makes us rethink WHY we do what we do and HOW we do what we do is healthy!

The major finding of the study was this: church does not drive long-term spiritual growth. That certainly doesn’t mean church isn’t important. And on one level, the primary finding isn’t shocking at all: personal spiritual disciplines drive long-term spiritual growth. But the study had some fascinating insights. Maybe the most important thing we can do as pastors is function like spiritual coaches and help people develop a spiritual growth plan.

That study is inspiring our first sermon series of 2008. We’re titling it How. And we want to get painfully practical and talk about how to develop spiritual habits. This would be what I call a back to basics series. Here are a few of the potential topics. If you have any ideas, add to the list.

How to Study the Bible
How to Pray
How to Set Goals
How to Fast
How to Worship
How to Share Your Faith