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Crafting a Rule of Life: An Invitation to the Well-Ordered Way
Your personal rule of life is a holistic description of the Spirit-empowered rhythms and relationships that create, redeem, sustain and transform the life God invites you to humbly fulfill for Christ's glory. All of us have an unwritten personal rule of life. We wake at certain times, get ready for our days in particular ways, use our free time for assorted purposes and practice rhythms of work, hobbies, and worship. There is already a rule in place that you are following. Isn?t it time to give up your unwritten rule and prayerfully write one that more closely matches the heartbeat of God? In this practical workbook Stephen A. Macchia looks to St. Benedict as a guide for discovering your own rule of life in community. It is a process that takes time and concerted effort; you must listen to God and discern what he wants you to be and do for his glory. But through the basic disciplines of Scripture, prayer and reflection in a small group context you will be lead forward in a journey toward Christlikeness. The invitation is transformational, so brace yourself for sweet release. By letting go and trusting God, you will receive the gift of life in its fullest and richest form.
187 pages, Paperback
First published January 16, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 12, 2013
Over the last year, I have learned about a rule of life and seen how valuable it can be in someone's life. I applaud Macchia for his attempt in helping others craft a comprehensive rule of life. Here is what I appreciated about the book:
1. Macchia focuses on holistic growth. He has the reader evaluate his or her walk with Christ, money, relationships, work, etc. and includes that in the rule of life development. He also approaches time holistically--having the reader craft his or her rule of life in terms of daily, weekly, month, quarterly and yearly practices.
2. Macchia's historical biographies added wonderful richness to the book, allowing the reader to see how other Christians have intentionally developed areas of their rule of life.
Here are the weaknesses in my opinion:
1. Macchia tries to do too much. He starts with sections on identifying your roles, gifts, desires, vision and mission. Each of these could--and should--be a book unto themselves. In his attempt to create a comprehensive rule of life, it became overwhelming. Or, more accurately, each of these sections underwhelmed this reader.
2. In each chapter, he tried to explain the section, give scriptural evidence of its validity, give a historical example for it and then ask questions of the reader. I found his self-imposed structure actually limited the usefulness rather than enhancing it. Better if we just acknowledge that a rule of life is not mandated by Scripture, has not been practiced by every great believer in history and not force this structure on the chapters.
3. In my opinion, Macchia should have shown the reader what the "end product" would look like while crafting a rule of life. This would have provided greater context for the exercises that the reader would develop.
1. Macchia focuses on holistic growth. He has the reader evaluate his or her walk with Christ, money, relationships, work, etc. and includes that in the rule of life development. He also approaches time holistically--having the reader craft his or her rule of life in terms of daily, weekly, month, quarterly and yearly practices.
2. Macchia's historical biographies added wonderful richness to the book, allowing the reader to see how other Christians have intentionally developed areas of their rule of life.
Here are the weaknesses in my opinion:
1. Macchia tries to do too much. He starts with sections on identifying your roles, gifts, desires, vision and mission. Each of these could--and should--be a book unto themselves. In his attempt to create a comprehensive rule of life, it became overwhelming. Or, more accurately, each of these sections underwhelmed this reader.
2. In each chapter, he tried to explain the section, give scriptural evidence of its validity, give a historical example for it and then ask questions of the reader. I found his self-imposed structure actually limited the usefulness rather than enhancing it. Better if we just acknowledge that a rule of life is not mandated by Scripture, has not been practiced by every great believer in history and not force this structure on the chapters.
3. In my opinion, Macchia should have shown the reader what the "end product" would look like while crafting a rule of life. This would have provided greater context for the exercises that the reader would develop.
July 6, 2021
One of the most practical books I’ve read in a long long time. I thought I was opening a book that would give me some good concepts or pointers toward writing my Rule. What I got was an in-depth, detailed, and through walkthrough from concept to practice of writing a Rule of Life.
The book is essentially broken down to two sections. Section one is an overview of a rule. A 10,000 foot view. The section two is an in-depth, workbook to help you actually write your Rule. I left this book with a robust rule I am very happy with.
I would not say this book is an “introduction” to Rule of Life, but it is perfect for those who are ready to make the jump into writing their own personal Rule of Life.
For those who want an introduction to rule of life I would recommend Pete Scarzzero’s Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
The book is essentially broken down to two sections. Section one is an overview of a rule. A 10,000 foot view. The section two is an in-depth, workbook to help you actually write your Rule. I left this book with a robust rule I am very happy with.
I would not say this book is an “introduction” to Rule of Life, but it is perfect for those who are ready to make the jump into writing their own personal Rule of Life.
For those who want an introduction to rule of life I would recommend Pete Scarzzero’s Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
June 2, 2018
For the Christian who is feeling distracted and disorganized, wondering how to focus on the great when there is so much "good". I was a bit confused at first but eventually found the book to fit each chapter together perfectly to craft my own rule of life. I find myself easily able to look at opportunities and requests from this lens and focus on those things that fit who God made me to be.
September 30, 2021
Went through this workbook with a friend. I would recommend creating a rule of life, but not with this workbook as your only resource. The structure is not super focused on the practical part of writing a rule of life. It also seemed to be written with men in mind primarily, and women as a bit of an afterthought or stereotype. I would suggest Bridgetown Church’s Practicing the Way resources for Rule of Life and The Common Rule as a great deal more helpful in this area.
September 15, 2021
Most of what I found helpful were just the broader categories for thinking about my life, as well as the stories. I didn't love the theological bent of the authors.
December 31, 2014
A workbook of sorts offered for individual and group reflection towards the goal of a rule of life. Based in relationships, gifts, desires, vision, and missions (Framing the Rule) it seeks to transfer that basis to time, trust, temple, treasure, and talents (spiritual, relational, physical, monetary, and missional life), to form a personal rule. I appreciate that the last two chapters are about fulfilling the rule, specifically in the context of a local church. Each chapter offers personal questions to answers, scriptural reflection, an example from church history, and questions for group use. Solid, thoughtful, and has made me uncomfortable, always a good sign.
November 2, 2012
so far, this book has really challenged me in my thinking and hopefull in my actions. If you want your life to remain as it always has been, then this book is not for you, but if you truly want growth in your life then work through this book and let it wotk on you.
August 22, 2018
To borrow another reviewers headline: "We all arrive somewhere ... very few of us get there on purpose." Macchia provides a compelling rationale and detailed workbook on how we can all draft our own 'rule of life' and be intentional in observing it.
Having studied the Spiritual Disciplines work of Foster, Willard and co, Macchia helps bridge the gap between how we can successfully orient our lives around intentional rhythms incorporating the disciplines so we can live a life that does indeed bring the Lord glory. In much of modern ministry there's a lot of energy around the doing but action should only come out the essence of our heart that ideally is increasingly filled by more and more of the heart beat of God. But we need to be intentional about how we draw close to God's heart beat. Macchia's work helps do that.
Providing examples from the Bible and a historical figure in each chapter, Macchia challenges us to contemplate and respond to a series of questions around each priority of our lives: relational, missional, vision, giftings and desires.
This is a challenging workbook and one needs to give yourself plenty of time to work through it. I suspect it will be something I refer back to regularly as we should with our 'rule of life' as we enter different seasons in life.
Quality and challenging approach to living with more intention.
Having studied the Spiritual Disciplines work of Foster, Willard and co, Macchia helps bridge the gap between how we can successfully orient our lives around intentional rhythms incorporating the disciplines so we can live a life that does indeed bring the Lord glory. In much of modern ministry there's a lot of energy around the doing but action should only come out the essence of our heart that ideally is increasingly filled by more and more of the heart beat of God. But we need to be intentional about how we draw close to God's heart beat. Macchia's work helps do that.
Providing examples from the Bible and a historical figure in each chapter, Macchia challenges us to contemplate and respond to a series of questions around each priority of our lives: relational, missional, vision, giftings and desires.
This is a challenging workbook and one needs to give yourself plenty of time to work through it. I suspect it will be something I refer back to regularly as we should with our 'rule of life' as we enter different seasons in life.
Quality and challenging approach to living with more intention.
January 4, 2020
I really wanted to like this book, having just graduated from seminary and wanting to create a rule of life for my self as I enter into full-time ministry. But it just wasn't possible. I got as far as page 38. I found the first part of the book very shallow, and even incorrect in areas of Biblical exegesis (David did not write the psalms, for instance). But then I got to page 38 and had to stop reading. Slave owners should not be extolled for bestowing kindness on their slaves, even when they treated one not as badly as they treated others. I cannot in good conscience keep this book or make use of it in my life and ministry.
May 28, 2019
Not quite what I was expecting - there were a lot of generalities and not enough specific guidance. The result the book guides you towards is more like a list of short-term resolutions, presented in chart form, rather than a lay version of a monastic rule of life. Even the guidance on how to create the chart isn't clear enough without skipping ahead to the case studies in the appendix. Some of the exercises on discerning your values are useful, and the biographies of church figures were interesting, although I found them of limited relevance.
February 19, 2020
This book is loaded with amazing questions to get you started praying through not just rhythms of life, but your desires and mission in life that undergird those rhythms. I don’t think every person could really go through every question in every season of their life, but one question will probably spark something in you in one season, while another question would in another season. I am really thankful for how this workbook has helped me verbalize what God is asking of me during this season of my life.
August 1, 2017
Don't judge this book by the chapter lengths. The study is deceptively detailed and time consuming. I enjoyed the biblical and historical perspectives in each chapter and felt they enhanced the point being made in the chapters. However, I echo the sentiments of other reviewers that several of the chapters (particularly the first three) could be full studies in their own rights. Overall, not bad but not what I expected for a summer study.
August 29, 2025
I truly enjoyed this book and plan to revisit it in the future—this time, more slowly and intentionally. It inspired me to write a Personal Rule of Life, and I’m confident that this will bring lasting joy and enrich my journey ahead. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone seeking deeper self-awareness and spiritual growth. It’s especially valuable for those committed to meaningful, spiritual self-improvement.
August 21, 2020
Took me long enough to get through this resource, but it was WORTH EVERY SECOND.
This book helps you unpack different roles in your life, different areas of our life, and helps you create a rule of life that helps you set a trajectory for the type of person you want to be.
It does it beautifully and thoughtfully.
This book helps you unpack different roles in your life, different areas of our life, and helps you create a rule of life that helps you set a trajectory for the type of person you want to be.
It does it beautifully and thoughtfully.
June 4, 2024
Good framework/concept for starting conversation in a group setting, but overall, it tried to do too much. Some of the historical/biblical connections felt forced (and unnecessary), and many of the questions felt repetitive. I'm glad I worked through it—for the sake of understanding and naming the foundation for my Rule of Life—but the book itself could definitely be much simpler and concise.
April 24, 2020
Great Place to Start
Spiritual formation is like herding cats - we have an idea how to do it, but application to the real world often isn’t so easy. This book gives a simple way to move from theory to vision to application.
Spiritual formation is like herding cats - we have an idea how to do it, but application to the real world often isn’t so easy. This book gives a simple way to move from theory to vision to application.
August 23, 2021
I read this book for one of my classes. I liked it. It’s pretty straight forward, and the questions are helpful. They lead to good contemplation. Nothing ground-shaking, but still good stuff to think about. I wish I had been able to do this with a group of people.
October 7, 2021
I read this book in tandem with the book, Rhythms for Life by Alastair Sterne. I found they complimented each other well. This book being the more comprehensive and detailed if the two. The chart ans categories were helpful but now my challenge is to simplify and make it memorable.
November 7, 2018
Some good biblical and historical examples but, a bit too broad for me in the "crafting" part.
February 11, 2019
I found this to be more like a text book than a guide. I struggled to get into it.
September 10, 2020
This is a great book to learn about what a rule of life can entail. Great to go through with a group of people to discuss what is coming up.
November 25, 2021
Work through this book slowly. You'll be glad you did!
July 24, 2022
Definitely something I'll keep on my bookshelf for later reference
April 14, 2024
Kari and I read a chapter a month and then discussed. I didn’t follow through with crafting a rule of life, but it was great topics for us to dig deeper together.
September 1, 2024
Read for a project.
February 20, 2025
A great book to help you direct your path closer to God and live your life with focus.
April 17, 2025
3* Audio
Probably should have gotten this one in paperback. might revisit it later.
Probably should have gotten this one in paperback. might revisit it later.
May 6, 2012
Between 1500 and 2000 years ago, Benedict of Nursia began a movement within Christian circles that continues to this day. He led people to an isolated place, and called them to live in intentional community so that they could teach and live out their Christian beliefs more faithfully. At the center of this community was the Rule of Benedict, which was covenant written by Benedict that guided their lives together in community. A "rule" in this sense is not so much a legalistic document that contains do's and don'ts, though some "rules" do include that, it is instead a structure to live by as a believer and as a community that helps those who follow it to grow spiritually.
Crafting a Rule of Life strives to follow in the footsteps of Benedict. Whether used in a community or individually, it guides students through ten-steps to creating a rule of life. Each of these steps are actually focused on understanding one's values, and one's priorities so that one can create a structure for one's spiritual life. That structure, in turn, will embrace disciplines, attitudes, and priorities that will create a spiritual rhythym that will guide a believers life into Christian faithfulness.
In adddition to the ten-steps, there are two chapters that help the student integrate their personal rule of life into a spiritual community of accountability and support. A "rule" really struggles without the support and accountability of community, so this section of the book is essential.
Each chapter has a similar structure. First, the topic is introduced. Then, an essay is included that communicates the Biblical foundation of why addressing the specific issue is central to healthy Christian living. After that, the author looks to history to reinforce the importance of including the issue in your "personal rule of life". Then, some leading questions are provided that will help a believer create their rule of life. After that, there is a section that guides believers in sharing what they learned about following Jesus in a group together. It is a good system, but will be best for those who are committed to this process. This is not a study that can be done "on the fly". It requires the commitment of each of its participants.
I love the idea of developing a rule of life. I think Macchia offers a helpful guide in making that happen. I am eager to use this resource in a group. However, the book is not without its limitations.
My biggest disappointment with the book was that it did relatively little in communicating Benedictine Spirituality in light of claiming to be influenced by St. Benedict's Rule. I would have liked to have seen more about the actual Rule of Benedict, and how that has influenced the author and the text.
Having said that, I think Crafting a Rule of Life is a great book. It would be wonderful to use with folks that are really interested in being serious about their Christian faith, and trying to look for a way to begin their practice of following Jesus.
Crafting a Rule of Life strives to follow in the footsteps of Benedict. Whether used in a community or individually, it guides students through ten-steps to creating a rule of life. Each of these steps are actually focused on understanding one's values, and one's priorities so that one can create a structure for one's spiritual life. That structure, in turn, will embrace disciplines, attitudes, and priorities that will create a spiritual rhythym that will guide a believers life into Christian faithfulness.
In adddition to the ten-steps, there are two chapters that help the student integrate their personal rule of life into a spiritual community of accountability and support. A "rule" really struggles without the support and accountability of community, so this section of the book is essential.
Each chapter has a similar structure. First, the topic is introduced. Then, an essay is included that communicates the Biblical foundation of why addressing the specific issue is central to healthy Christian living. After that, the author looks to history to reinforce the importance of including the issue in your "personal rule of life". Then, some leading questions are provided that will help a believer create their rule of life. After that, there is a section that guides believers in sharing what they learned about following Jesus in a group together. It is a good system, but will be best for those who are committed to this process. This is not a study that can be done "on the fly". It requires the commitment of each of its participants.
I love the idea of developing a rule of life. I think Macchia offers a helpful guide in making that happen. I am eager to use this resource in a group. However, the book is not without its limitations.
My biggest disappointment with the book was that it did relatively little in communicating Benedictine Spirituality in light of claiming to be influenced by St. Benedict's Rule. I would have liked to have seen more about the actual Rule of Benedict, and how that has influenced the author and the text.
Having said that, I think Crafting a Rule of Life is a great book. It would be wonderful to use with folks that are really interested in being serious about their Christian faith, and trying to look for a way to begin their practice of following Jesus.
August 15, 2021
The ultimate outcome of living by a rule of life is joy.
A good resource to help develop a rule of life. This is similar to other material I have used in the past and covers vision, mission, roles, gifts, etc. There is a lot of information, questions and exercises which is great but this can also be overwhelming at times. I ended up reading the chapters and using the general framework to construct my “rule” and tried to keep things simple. I like the idea of having different example rules in the appendices but I found they were unrealistic. Anyone trying to live under any of those rules would soon give up. Nonetheless, this is a good resource for anyone wanting to craft a rule of life.
A good resource to help develop a rule of life. This is similar to other material I have used in the past and covers vision, mission, roles, gifts, etc. There is a lot of information, questions and exercises which is great but this can also be overwhelming at times. I ended up reading the chapters and using the general framework to construct my “rule” and tried to keep things simple. I like the idea of having different example rules in the appendices but I found they were unrealistic. Anyone trying to live under any of those rules would soon give up. Nonetheless, this is a good resource for anyone wanting to craft a rule of life.
April 16, 2012
I liked this book.
Reviewed at my blog and at Englewood Review of Books.
Reviewed at my blog and at Englewood Review of Books.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews