DISCIPLINES OF A GODLY MAN
Author R KENT HUGHES
Publisher CROSSWAY
First published around 1991 and still available new, this book is one that helps our focus on important matters not considered enough by the average church going male of today. It does not pretend to be ‘deep,’ the author touches on the seventeen disciplines he has identified as vital for the nurturing of the spiritual life of the godly man. It is the element of quick and sharp concentration on these that will probably prove to be the most beneficial aspect of going through this book. It could be used as a primer in men’s groups. Certainly it is very evangelically orthodox in thrust. For some readers, it is saying nothing new, they might even regard it as a bit ‘preachy,’ but the challenges it will surely bring to are vital. That there is a general malaise and neglect of a number of the ‘disciplines’ mentioned is most certainly the case. The book opens with a short chapter on the discipline of godliness and then divides into four sections, disciplines the author regards as belonging to Relationships, followed by four disciplines focusing on the ‘Soul’, three on Character and five concentrating on the Ministry. The concluding chapter is entitled the ‘Grace of Discipline”. The fact that the book continues to be in print indicates its relevance and usefulness to many. In fact, it was followed by a number of other books that look at those disciplines linked with the life of the younger man and the author’s wife also ventured into print concerning the disciplines that she regards as essential to the life of the godly woman. Probably we could say that much in these pages is basic, elementary and straightforward, such things should not need to be stated. However, candid consideration would lead me to think that this book is a ‘must’ read for the average man in the churches of today. To some degree or other every reader will benefit. There are other books on personal and spiritual disciplines. Richard Foster’s book The Celebration of Discipline comes to mind for instance. That book does not run the risk of being accused of leaning towards legalism as does this book of R Kent Hughes. These things need to be said. The scriptural examples the author uses are plentiful along with some memorable anecdotes and examples from Christian men through older and more recent generations. Those of us who are honest enough to confess that we are deficient in personal discipline should make an effort to get this book. It will prove to be very helpful indeed.
