How do I deepen spiritually?

Leading others in spiritual work means tending first to your own soul. You can’t nourish others if your own well has run dry. Whether your practices are prayer and worship, meditation, movement, study, or time in nature, returning to what grounds you is essential—not a luxury, but a lifeline. Spiritual leadership isn’t just about having the right words or a strong vision; it’s about living from a place of depth, presence, and authenticity. 

There’s a danger in leading others beyond where you’ve gone yourself. None of us are finished products, and spiritual humility means recognizing that we’re always learning, always becoming. It’s okay not to have all the answers. In fact, admitting that opens space for honesty, curiosity, and collective wisdom. As you grow your community or your offering, make space for your own growth too. Stay close to your questions. Make space for your own healing. Stay open to being shaped. When you lead from that sacred center, you’ll embody your calling safely and sustainably. 

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Suggested reading

There are more wise books than a lifetime of reading could enjoy, but here are some tried-and-tested classics on spiritual formation that offer insight across traditions. 

• Howard Thurman’s Disciplines of the Spirit draws on the raw materials of daily life as the time and place to encounter God. Includes discussion on commitment, growth, suffering, prayer and reconciliation.
• Elizabeth O'Connor’s A Call to Commitment weaves together the story of a particular spiritual community with timeliness wisdom about going inwards and outwards.
• Alan Morinis, Everyday Holiness is a compelling introduction to the Jewish practice of Mussar, which cultivates personal growth and spiritual realization in the midst of day-to-day life. 
• Thích Nhất Hạnh’s Peace is Every Step integrates meditation practices, short anecdotes from his peacebuilding work, and ancient Buddhist wisdom. 
• Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness is a journey towards wholeness from fragmentation. 
• bell hook’s All About Love is a reflection on love, healing, and the everyday practical work of loving one another well.  
• Henri Nouwen’s Spiritual Formation introduces readers to the five stages of spiritual development.
• Lisa Miller’s The Awakened Brain provides a primer on the science of spirituality and strengthening the spiritual core.

Want to share a book that’s helped you deepen your spiritual life? Suggest it in the resource library!

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Tools, assessments, and programs

If you’re exploring your own spiritual formation, it can be helpful to learn from spiritual formation programs, processes, and assessments. These are packed full of inspiration and practical guidance that you can adapt into your own life and work. 

• The Formation Companion is an extensive handbook for spiritual formation across multiple religious and spiritual traditions written by the team behind The Formation Project.
• The Oasis Project is a fountain of formation inspiration anchored in Islamic theology, sacred law and spirituality.
• Practicing the Way is a rich introduction to Christian formation practices and insight. 
• This spiritual wellbeing assessment from Sacred Design Lab offers dozens of reflection questions and an opportunity to notice where you are on your spiritual journey. The accompanying tip sheet can support you in taking next steps.
• Similarly, this spiritual performance matrix from Bryan Hedrick, which was developed for the US Army, can clarify areas of spiritual growth. 
• The Institute for Jewish Spirituality offers rich digital programming, resources and retreats that center mindfulness and Jewish tradition.
• The Center for Courage and Renewal offers programs, resources, and connections to help renew your courageous spirit, amplify your inner teacher, and cultivate the stamina to keep showing up for yourself, others, and the causes you care about.
• The Handbook for Churches and Mission Groups offers practical guidance for small groups working together to grow spirituality and serve practically.