A bad process that produces good results is still a bad process. Usually, the good results produced from a bad process are really the result of over-matched talent, luck, or overwhelming size. Think of the kid in little league who’s just bigger and stronger than everyone else. His process really doesn’t matter. He’s going to win because he’s big and can throw the ball harder than anyone else. His day is coming though…

And when his day comes, when he’s no longer the biggest dude in the league, it’s his process that will determine his results from that point forward. At some point, sheer size and strength don’t carry you. At some point, you must have the right process to get the right results. If work ethic and a good practice plan aren’t part of this kid’s routine, you won’t be able to find him when his size doesn’t matter anymore.

A good process is nowhere more important than in your spiritual life. I’m amazed at how many people will pick up a Bible one time, read (probably from the Old Testament Law) and say, “This is old, boring, and doesn’t apply to my life.” They never pick it up again. Or, there’s the person who tosses the Bible on the table, letting it fall open somewhere, then reads from that, expecting a miraculous sign or word from God. “God’s just not speaking to me.” Both are bad processes. They won’t produce good results in the long run.

Instead, spiritual discipline is needed. Proverbs 21:5 gives us the overall principle. “The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty.”

The illustration used is one about making money over a long period of time. Those who are diligent, who stick with a good plan, even when times are rough, see it pay dividends over time.

Any other endeavor is just like that. Apply a good process to your sport and you’ll eventually reach whatever potential you have.

Apply a good process to spiritual growth and you’ll become the person God wants you to be (hint: you’ll like that person too!).

Take a week and try it. Start a Bible reading plan. Write out a prayer list. Put time with God on your calendar, just like any other appointment. Start today. Growing in your faith includes a good process for spiritual development.

How have you seen spiritual disciplines benefit you? Leave a comment on the blog, Twitter, or Facebook. I’d love to hear from you.