Habits of Grace PDF: A Comprehensive Article Plan (12/12/2025)
Today, December 12, 2025, this article plan details a study guide focused on foundational habits for daily grace, offering biblical insights and practical application.
The PDF supplement to David Mathis’s book aims to deepen connection with vital power sources, enhancing spiritual growth and enjoyment of Jesus Christ through disciplines.
Resources from Desiring God, including articles and sermons, complement the study guide, providing further exploration of these transformative habits of grace.
Habits of Grace represents a focused exploration into cultivating a deeper, more consistent relationship with Jesus Christ through intentional spiritual disciplines. This isn’t about rigid rule-following, but rather about purposefully placing ourselves in the path of God’s abundant grace. The core concept revolves around understanding that spiritual growth isn’t a matter of willpower alone, but of relying on God’s power through established habits.
The accompanying study guide, available as a PDF, serves as a practical companion to David Mathis’s book, “Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus through the Spiritual Disciplines.” It’s designed to move beyond simply knowing about these disciplines – prayer, Scripture meditation, fasting, and Sabbath keeping – to actively practicing them. The guide provides a structured approach, offering Scripture readings, insightful questions for reflection, and opportunities for both individual study and enriching group discussion.
Ultimately, Habits of Grace aims to equip believers with the tools to not merely survive, but to thrive in their faith, experiencing increased joy, peace, and a more profound connection with the heart of God.
What is the “Habits of Grace” Study Guide?
The “Habits of Grace” Study Guide is a supplementary resource designed to enhance engagement with David Mathis’s book, “Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus through the Spiritual Disciplines.” Available as a PDF, it’s meticulously crafted to facilitate a more immersive and practical understanding of the core principles presented in the original work.
Unlike a simple summary, this study guide actively prompts readers to apply the concepts to their own lives. It achieves this through thoughtfully curated Scripture reading plans, designed to reinforce the biblical foundations of each habit. Furthermore, it includes probing discussion questions, ideal for individual reflection or collaborative exploration within a small group setting.
The PDF format allows for convenient access and portability, enabling users to study at their own pace and in their preferred environment. It’s a tool intended to transform knowledge into lived experience, fostering genuine spiritual growth and a deeper enjoyment of Jesus.
David Mathis is the author behind both “Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus through the Spiritual Disciplines” and its accompanying study guide, available as a PDF. He serves as a pastor at Cities Church in Minneapolis-St. Paul, and is known for his commitment to biblical theology and practical Christian living.
Mathis’s primary intent in creating these resources isn’t simply to prescribe a list of religious duties. Rather, he aims to encourage believers in their spiritual growth by demonstrating how seemingly “spiritual” disciplines can become avenues for experiencing greater joy in Jesus Christ. He believes these habits aren’t ends in themselves, but rather means of deepening our relationship with God.
The study guide, specifically, is designed to help readers actively engage with the book’s content, moving beyond passive reading to genuine transformation. Mathis desires to equip individuals to intentionally cultivate habits that draw them closer to God’s grace.
The Core Message: Enjoying Jesus
At the heart of “Habits of Grace” and its study guide PDF lies a profoundly simple, yet often overlooked, message: the Christian life is meant to be enjoyed. The book challenges the notion that spiritual disciplines are merely burdensome obligations, instead presenting them as pathways to deeper, more satisfying communion with Jesus Christ.
David Mathis emphasizes that practices like prayer, Scripture meditation, and fasting aren’t about earning God’s favor, but about reveling in the favor already freely given through grace. The goal isn’t self-improvement, but Christ-exaltation and joy-filled dependence on Him.
The study guide reinforces this core message by prompting reflection on how each habit can lead to a more intimate and joyful experience of Jesus. It encourages readers to approach these disciplines not as chores, but as cherished opportunities to encounter the living God.
The Three Crucial Power Sources
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF centers around the idea that sustained spiritual growth isn’t achieved through willpower alone, but through consistent connection with three vital power sources. These aren’t merely recommended activities, but essential lifelines for the believer.
The first is Scripture – immersing oneself in God’s Word to know His character and promises. Secondly, prayer – a continual conversation with God, seeking His guidance and expressing gratitude. Finally, fasting – intentionally abstaining from something to deepen dependence on God and focus on spiritual realities.
The study guide provides practical exercises and prompts to cultivate these three habits, demonstrating how they work synergistically to fuel a life of grace and joy. It emphasizes that these aren’t isolated disciplines, but interconnected pathways to a richer relationship with Jesus.
Prayer as a Habit of Grace
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF highlights prayer not as a religious duty, but as a vital habit for experiencing God’s grace. It’s presented as a continual conversation, a turning of the heart towards dependence on God throughout the day, not just during designated times.
The guide encourages moving beyond simply asking for things, to cultivating a posture of adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication (ACTS). It emphasizes the importance of specific, heartfelt requests, coupled with trust in God’s sovereign will.
Practical exercises within the PDF help readers establish consistent prayer rhythms, overcome common obstacles, and deepen their intimacy with God. It’s framed as a means of enjoying Jesus, not earning His favor, aligning with the core message of the resource.
Meditation on Scripture
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF presents Scriptural meditation as a powerful practice for internalizing God’s Word and experiencing His transforming grace. It moves beyond mere reading, advocating for a deliberate, reflective engagement with the text.
The guide encourages readers to slow down, ponder specific verses, and allow the Holy Spirit to illuminate their meaning and application to their lives. It’s not about intellectual analysis, but about allowing Scripture to shape their thoughts, emotions, and desires.
Exercises within the PDF offer practical techniques for meditating on Scripture, such as focusing on key words, tracing themes, and journaling personal reflections. This habit is presented as a key component in enjoying Jesus and growing in spiritual maturity.
Fasting and its Role in Grace
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF explores fasting not as a legalistic requirement, but as a powerful spiritual discipline that cultivates dependence on God and opens the door to deeper grace. It reframes fasting as a means of intentionally setting aside earthly appetites to focus more intently on spiritual realities.
The guide clarifies that fasting isn’t about earning favor with God, but about humbling oneself before Him and creating space for His presence and power to work in one’s life. It’s presented as a way to break free from distractions and cultivate a greater sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
Practical guidance within the PDF offers suggestions for incorporating fasting into one’s routine, emphasizing that it’s a personal practice with varying levels of intensity and duration, all aimed at enjoying Jesus more fully.
Detailed Breakdown of Key Habits
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF meticulously dissects four core spiritual disciplines: Scriptural Intake, Consistent Prayer, Regular Fasting, and Sabbath Keeping. Each habit receives dedicated attention, moving beyond simple definitions to explore the ‘why’ behind the practice and its connection to experiencing God’s grace.
The PDF doesn’t present these habits as a checklist for spiritual perfection, but as pathways to a more profound and joyful relationship with Jesus. It emphasizes that these aren’t merely things to do, but ways of being, intentionally orienting one’s life toward God.
Detailed explanations, coupled with accompanying Scripture readings and reflective questions, help readers understand how to integrate these habits into their daily lives, fostering lasting spiritual transformation and a deeper enjoyment of Christ.
Habit 1: Scriptural Intake
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF dedicates significant attention to Scriptural Intake, positioning it as foundational for experiencing God’s grace. It moves beyond rote reading, advocating for a deliberate and meditative approach to the Bible.
The PDF emphasizes that consistent engagement with Scripture isn’t about accumulating knowledge, but about allowing God’s Word to shape our hearts and minds, revealing more of His character and will. It encourages readers to actively listen for God’s voice within the text.
Practical guidance is provided on selecting reading plans, utilizing different study methods, and applying biblical truths to everyday life. The aim is to cultivate a lifelong habit of nourishing the soul through the consistent intake of God’s Word, fostering a deeper relationship with Jesus.
Habit 2: Consistent Prayer Life
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF highlights a consistent prayer life as a crucial habit, integral to walking in grace and experiencing a deeper connection with God. It’s presented not as a religious duty, but as a vital conversation with a loving Father.
The PDF encourages moving beyond formulaic prayers, advocating for authentic and heartfelt communication with God, expressing gratitude, confession, and supplication. It emphasizes the importance of listening for God’s guidance and discerning His will through prayer.
Practical suggestions within the study guide include establishing regular prayer times, utilizing prayer journals, and incorporating prayer into daily routines. The goal is to cultivate a continuous awareness of God’s presence and a reliance on His power, fostering intimacy and trust.
Habit 3: Regular Fasting Practices
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF presents regular fasting not as deprivation, but as a powerful spiritual discipline for cultivating deeper intimacy with God and experiencing His grace. It’s framed as intentionally setting aside earthly appetites to focus intently on spiritual nourishment.
The PDF clarifies that fasting isn’t about earning God’s favor, but about humbling oneself before Him and creating space for His presence to be more keenly felt. It encourages approaching fasting with a clear purpose, seeking God’s guidance and intervention in specific areas of life.
Practical guidance within the study guide includes different types of fasts (e.g., food, media, social media) and emphasizes the importance of approaching it with wisdom and discernment. The aim is to break free from dependencies and cultivate a greater hunger for God.
Habit 4: Sabbath Keeping
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF emphasizes Sabbath keeping as a vital practice for receiving and resting in God’s grace. It’s presented not merely as a day of religious obligation, but as a divinely appointed rhythm for the soul, mirroring God’s own rest after creation.
The PDF clarifies that true Sabbath rest extends beyond ceasing work; it’s about actively delighting in God and finding joy in His creation. It encourages intentionality – planning activities that nourish the soul and foster connection with God and loved ones.
The study guide challenges the modern tendency to fill every moment with activity, advocating for a deliberate slowing down and a release of control. It’s a time to remember God’s provision, celebrate His goodness, and anticipate His renewing grace for the week ahead.
Using the Study Guide Effectively
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF is designed as a companion to David Mathis’s book, maximizing engagement with its core principles. To utilize it effectively, consistent and focused effort is key. The PDF provides structured Scripture readings and thought-provoking discussion questions for each chapter.
The study guide encourages readers to not simply consume information, but to actively apply the principles to their daily lives. Journaling prompts within the PDF facilitate personal reflection and tracking of progress in cultivating these habits of grace.
Whether used for individual study or within a small group, the PDF’s format fosters deeper understanding and accountability. The included resources from Desiring God further enrich the learning experience, promoting lasting spiritual transformation.
Individual Study vs. Group Discussion
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF lends itself beautifully to both individual contemplation and vibrant group discussion. For individual study, the PDF’s structured format—Scripture readings, reflection questions, and journaling prompts—allows for a personalized and deeply immersive experience.
However, engaging in group discussion unlocks a different dimension of learning. Sharing insights, struggles, and victories with others fosters accountability and provides diverse perspectives on cultivating habits of grace. The PDF’s discussion questions are specifically designed to spark meaningful conversations.
Ultimately, the most effective approach may involve a blend of both. Individual preparation using the PDF, followed by group sharing, maximizes understanding and application of these transformative spiritual disciplines, drawing from Desiring God resources.
Scripture Reading Plans within the Guide
A significant strength of the “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF lies in its integrated Scripture reading plans. These aren’t merely suggested verses; they are carefully curated sequences designed to reinforce the themes explored within each habit. The plans systematically guide readers through relevant passages, deepening their understanding of grace and spiritual disciplines.
These reading plans are structured to complement the PDF’s daily or weekly focus, ensuring a cohesive learning experience. They draw heavily from both Old and New Testament texts, illustrating the biblical foundation for practices like prayer, fasting, and Sabbath keeping.
Users can expect a blend of narrative, poetic, and prophetic Scripture, all aimed at fostering a richer connection with God and a more profound appreciation for the habits of grace, aligning with Desiring God’s teachings.
Discussion Questions and Their Purpose
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF doesn’t function as a solitary experience; it actively encourages communal learning through thoughtfully crafted discussion questions. These aren’t simply recall exercises, but prompts designed to stimulate deeper reflection on the material and its personal application.
The questions within the PDF aim to unpack the biblical basis for each habit, explore potential challenges to implementation, and foster accountability among participants. They encourage honest self-assessment and open dialogue about one’s journey in cultivating grace-filled practices.
Whether used in small groups or individual journaling, these questions serve as a catalyst for transformation, helping readers move beyond intellectual understanding to genuine heart change, mirroring the intent of Desiring God resources;
Connecting with Desiring God Resources
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF isn’t an isolated resource, but rather a gateway to the broader wealth of materials available through Desiring God. The ministry, founded by John Piper, offers a rich collection of articles, sermons, and books all centered on the theme of glorifying God through enjoying Him.
The PDF frequently references key theological concepts explored on the Desiring God website (desiringgod.org), providing a seamless connection for those seeking further understanding. This synergy allows users to delve deeper into the biblical foundations underpinning the habits discussed.
Furthermore, exploring related content by David Mathis, the author, on the website expands the scope of learning, reinforcing the principles of grace and spiritual discipline presented in the study guide.
The Desiring God Website and its Relevance
The Desiring God website (desiringgod.org) serves as a crucial companion to the “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF, offering extensive supplementary material. It’s a digital hub brimming with articles, sermons, and podcasts directly relevant to cultivating a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ through spiritual disciplines.
Visitors will find numerous resources expanding on the core themes of prayer, Scripture meditation, and fasting – the very habits championed within the PDF. The site provides theological depth, practical guidance, and inspiring testimonies, enriching the study guide experience.
Specifically, searching for “Habits of Grace” on the website unlocks a dedicated page linking to the book, the study guide, and related content, creating a centralized learning pathway. This interconnectedness fosters a holistic understanding of living in grace.
Additional Resources by David Mathis
Beyond the “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF and its accompanying book, David Mathis offers a wealth of further resources for those seeking spiritual growth. His writings consistently emphasize the joy of experiencing Jesus through disciplined spiritual practices.
Readers can explore his articles on the Desiring God website, covering topics like biblical meditation, the purpose of fasting, and the importance of Sabbath keeping – all directly complementing the habits detailed in the PDF. These articles often provide deeper theological insights and practical application tips.
Furthermore, Mathis contributes regularly to the Desiring God podcast and has delivered numerous sermons available online, expanding on themes of grace, discipline, and the Christian life. These diverse formats cater to various learning preferences, enriching the overall experience.
Related Articles and Sermons
Expanding on the principles within the “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF, the Desiring God website hosts a rich collection of related articles and sermons; These resources delve deeper into the spiritual disciplines, offering diverse perspectives on cultivating a life of grace.
Articles explore topics such as the benefits of consistent prayer, the power of Scripture meditation, and the transformative effects of regular fasting. Sermons by David Mathis and other Desiring God contributors further illuminate these habits, providing biblical foundations and practical guidance.
These supplementary materials offer a broader understanding of how to intentionally pursue a closer relationship with Jesus Christ. They reinforce the study guide’s core message: enjoying God through intentional spiritual practices, fostering lasting spiritual growth and maturity.
Benefits of Implementing These Habits
Consistent application of the habits outlined in the “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF yields profound spiritual benefits. Primarily, individuals experience a deeper connection with Jesus Christ, moving beyond superficial faith to a vibrant, personal relationship.
This intentional pursuit of spiritual disciplines fosters significant spiritual growth and maturity, equipping believers to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and resilience. The practices cultivate a heart attuned to God’s voice and will.
Furthermore, implementing these habits results in increased joy and peace, as individuals learn to rely on God’s grace and find contentment in His presence. The study guide empowers a life characterized by gratitude, hope, and unwavering faith.
Deeper Connection with Jesus Christ
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF isn’t merely about adopting disciplines; it’s a pathway to a more intimate and profound relationship with Jesus Christ. Through consistent scriptural intake, believers encounter His character and teachings directly, fostering familiarity and trust.
Dedicated prayer, as emphasized in the guide, becomes less of a ritual and more of a heartfelt conversation with a beloved friend. Fasting cultivates a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s leading, opening hearts to deeper communion.
Regular Sabbath keeping provides dedicated time for focused worship and reflection, nurturing a sense of peace and dependence on Christ. These habits collectively dismantle barriers, allowing individuals to experience Jesus not as a distant figure, but as a present, personal reality.
Spiritual Growth and Maturity
Implementing the habits outlined in the “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF isn’t a quick fix, but a sustained process of spiritual growth and increasing maturity. Consistent engagement with scripture, prayer, fasting, and Sabbath keeping cultivates a resilient faith capable of weathering life’s challenges.
The guide’s emphasis on these disciplines isn’t about earning God’s favor, but about positioning oneself to receive His grace more fully. This receptivity fosters a deepening understanding of biblical truth and a greater capacity for love, joy, and peace.
Over time, these practices transform character, producing fruit aligned with the Spirit – qualities like patience, kindness, and self-control – hallmarks of genuine spiritual maturity.
Increased Joy and Peace
The “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF isn’t merely about adhering to religious routines; it’s a pathway to experiencing profound joy and lasting peace. By intentionally cultivating disciplines like scriptural intake, consistent prayer, and regular fasting, believers open themselves to a deeper connection with Jesus Christ.
This connection isn’t based on performance, but on receiving God’s unearned favor. As one increasingly rests in grace, anxieties diminish, and a sense of contentment blossoms. The study guide facilitates this shift by prompting reflection and application of biblical truths.
Furthermore, the practice of Sabbath keeping provides a rhythm of rest and worship, fostering a peaceful spirit and a renewed sense of purpose, ultimately leading to a life overflowing with joy.
Where to Find the “Habits of Grace” PDF
Currently, the primary source for obtaining the “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF is the official Desiring God website (https://www.desiringgod.org/books/habits-of-grace-study-guide). It’s often available as a free download to accompany David Mathis’s book, “Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus through the Spiritual Disciplines.”
However, availability may vary. Checking Desiring God’s resources section is recommended for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, various third-party retailers may offer the PDF for purchase, such as online bookstores specializing in Christian literature.
Potential costs, if applicable, will depend on the retailer. Formats typically include PDF, optimized for digital reading and printing. Always verify the source’s legitimacy before downloading to ensure a safe and reliable file.
Official Desiring God Website
The Desiring God website (https://www.desiringgod.org/) serves as the central hub for accessing the “Habits of Grace” study guide PDF and related resources. It’s the most reliable source for a legitimate, free download, often provided as a companion to David Mathis’s book.
Navigating to the “Books” or “Resources” section of the website will lead you directly to the study guide. Here, you’ll find not only the PDF itself but also supplementary materials like articles, sermons, and blog posts expanding on the themes of spiritual disciplines and enjoying Jesus.
Desiring God consistently updates its offerings, so checking regularly ensures you have access to the latest version and any accompanying content. The website also provides information on purchasing the physical book if preferred.
Third-Party Retailers and Availability
While the official Desiring God website is the primary source, the “Habits of Grace Study Guide PDF” and the accompanying book are also available through various third-party retailers. These include major online bookstores like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Christianbook.com.
Availability of the PDF directly from these retailers may vary; often, they offer the physical book in paperback or digital formats (e.g., Kindle). Checking these platforms can provide alternative purchasing options and potentially faster shipping.
Be cautious when downloading the PDF from unofficial sources to avoid potential malware or pirated copies. Always verify the legitimacy of the website before downloading any files. Prices may differ across retailers, so comparing is advisable.
Potential Costs and Formats
The cost of the “Habits of Grace Study Guide” varies depending on the format and retailer. The physical paperback typically ranges from $12 to $18 USD, while the digital ebook versions (Kindle, etc.) are generally priced between $8 and $12 USD.
A dedicated PDF version for direct download might be available for a similar price to the ebook, or potentially as a free resource through Desiring God promotions. Bundled offers, including the study guide and the original “Habits of Grace” book, may also present cost savings.
Formats include standard paperback, ebook (compatible with most e-readers), and potentially a downloadable PDF. Consider your preferred reading method when choosing a format. Always check retailer websites for current pricing and promotional offers.