Weekly Devotion
July 20, 2025

Steeped in Tradition

Reading Soul Feast has led me to reflect on the word tradition. What comes to mind when you hear it? Perhaps cherished family rituals—or perhaps a sense of heaviness. For many, tradition carries a negative connotation.

Sometimes this stems from empty rituals—like taking communion without reflection, simply because it’s expected. Christian practices such as baptism, prayer, worship, and communion are meant to express a living relationship with God. When they become routine motions, they lose their spiritual power.

Other times, negativity comes from rigid routines that stifle growth. For example, insisting on a specific Bible translation or clinging to a set worship format (three hymns, a prayer, and a sermon), even when it no longer connects with people. This can limit deeper engagement with the gospel and discourage newer believers. Serving out of obligation, equating attendance with spiritual health, or focusing on rules over relationship are other examples that hinder transformation.

A third issue is mistaking cultural preferences for biblical commands. One area many churches wrestle with is worship style. John 4:24 reminds us that true worship is “in spirit and in truth.” Whether through hymns, gospel, contemporary music, or silence—worship is about the heart, not the form. Other cultural preferences often confused with mandates include dress codes, language or Bible translation, leadership structures, and gender roles in ministry.

But tradition doesn’t have to hinder us—it can also draw us closer to Jesus.

Traditions like worship gatherings, baptism, prayer, communion, and Scripture reading are vital. Hebrews 10:24–25 encourages us not to give up meeting together. Worship can happen in a sanctuary or around a kitchen table—as long as we’re turning our attention toward God and growing in Christ together (Matt 18:20).

Baptism symbolizes dying to self and rising into new life in Christ (Rom 6:4). It’s a bold step of surrender and a public declaration of faith.

Prayer is our direct access to God, made possible through Jesus’ death and the tearing of the temple curtain (Matt 27:51). We can speak to Him anywhere, anytime. How amazing is that?

Communion invites us to reflect on God’s sacrificial love. It challenges us to examine our hearts and renew our commitment to Him (1 Cor 11:27–32).

And Scripture? It’s where I turn for wisdom, comfort, truth, and strength. God’s Word speaks into every situation—whether joy, sorrow, anger, or praise. Having it written on our hearts equips us to stand firm (Ps 119:11, Prov 3:1–2, Col 3:16, Eph 6:12).

So may the traditions and spiritual practices you hold dear draw you closer to Jesus. And may I gently challenge you to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. I’d love to hear what you discover.

Written by
Jodi Dyck