When we mistake spiritual disciplines for to-dos, time slots on our schedule, or Instagram-able moments, we miss the benefits of Christ's continual and constant work for us. We begin to feel weary and disappointed in ourselves, and we begin to believe we are bad Christians.

In Ragged, Gretchen Ronnevik aims to reclaim spiritual disciplines as good gifts given by our good Father instead of heavy burdens of performance carried by the Christian. Only when we recognize our failure to maintain God's commands do we also realize the benefit of our dependence on his promises. Gretchen uses this distinction of law and gospel, presented throughout Scripture, to guide readers through spiritual disciplines including prayer, meditation, Scripture reading, and discipleship among others. Despite our best efforts, the good news is that spiritual disciplines have less to do with what we bring before God and more about who Christ is for us, not only as the author but also as the perfector of our faith.

Stop trying to obtain perfection in your habits. Begin recognizing your dependence on God and what He has done for you, and begin flourishing in your relationship with God.