Disciplines of a Godly Man by R. Kent Hughes
Week 7: Chapter 6 — Discipline of Devotion
Read Chapter 6 of Disciplines of a Godly Man. Primary Scripture: Psalm 63:1–8; Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16.
Previewing Week 7 of Disciplines of a Godly Man
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 20-week guide when you’re ready.
Hughes turns to the daily practice of personal devotion — Bible reading and prayer as a sustained, intentional meeting with God — and argues that this is the engine room of every other discipline. Be honest with yourself about what your morning (or daily) time with God actually looks like.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Hughes points to Jesus himself as the primary model of devotional discipline — a man who, despite the demands of ministry, consistently withdrew to pray (Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16). What does it say about the priority of devotion that *Jesus* needed this time — and what does it say about us when we skip it?
2.Hughes talks about the devotional life as a meeting, not just a routine — an actual encounter with a living God rather than a spiritual chore to check off. What has your devotional time *felt* like recently — a meeting or a chore? What factors contribute to which it becomes?
3.Psalm 63:1 describes David's thirst for God — an urgent, almost physical longing. Does that describe your desire for God right now? If not, how do you respond when your heart is dry — do you keep showing up, or do you wait until you feel it?
a.What does Hughes suggest about the relationship between faithfulness in devotion and the growth of genuine desire for God?
b.How does this challenge the idea that we should only pray when we "feel like it"?