"My Rule of Life: A One-Page Template"

If you want 2026 to be strong spiritually, emotionally, and relationally…
don’t start with big goals.

Start with simple rhythms.

Today’s newsletter gives you a one-page Rule of Life that actually fits real life — blue-collar schedules, long work days, parent life, and unpredictable weeks.

Not heavy.
Not complicated.
Just clear, steady anchors.

My Rule of Life: A One-Page Template

A lot of people think a “rule of life” is something monks do.
Quiet robes.
Stone walls.
Chanting.

But the truth is…
a rule of life is simply a game plan for your days.

Not a strict schedule —a steady rhythm.

Imagine your spiritual life like a trellis in a vineyard. The trellis doesn’t grow the grapes —
it just gives the vine something to grow on.

Your rule of life does the same: It gives your soul something to grow on.

Why This Matters

When you’re tired, stressed, or busy…
you don’t rise to your intentions —
you fall to your rhythms.

Without a rule of life:

• your prayer life gets inconsistent

• your mind gets scattered

• your habits get sloppy

• your emotions get tight

• your relationships get neglected

With a rule of life:

• your days feel grounded

• your mind feels steadier

• your spirit stays connected

• your habits become easier

• your home feels calmer

You don’t need a complicated spiritual routine.
You need anchors.

Three Anchors That Fit Real Life

Here’s the simplest way to build a spiritual rhythm:

1. Morning Anchor (2–10 minutes)

Start your day with intention.

Options:

• Read one Psalm or one chapter of a Gospel

• Pray: “God, lead me today.”

• Speak one identity statement over your life

• Sit in silence for 60 seconds

Even two minutes shifts your tone for the day.

2. Midday Reset (60 seconds–3 minutes)

Life gets noisy quickly.
A midday reset keeps you aligned.

Options:

• Slow breath + “Lord, be with me.”

• Read one verse

• Step outside for a moment of quiet

• Pray for your wife/kids/work

Small resets prevent major drifts.

3. Evening Wind-Down (2–5 minutes)

End your day with peace.

Options:

• Gratitude list (3 things)

• Ask: “Where did I see God today?”

• Pray: “Lord, I give this day back to You.”

• Read one paragraph of Scripture

It helps your mind release the pressure.

One Daily Non-Negotiable

Choose ONE thing you commit to every day — no matter what.

Examples:

• Read Scripture for 5 minutes

• Pray one intentional prayer

• Encourage one person

• Turn your phone off for the first 20 minutes of the day

• Ask your wife or kids one meaningful question

Small habits = strong lives.

Ask Yourself:

1. Which anchor (morning, midday, evening) do I need most right now?

2. What small, doable practice gives me life?

3. What “non-negotiable” will I commit to this week?

Call to Action:

• My Rule of Life (2026)

  • Morning Anchor:
    I will begin my day by: __________________________

  • Midday Reset:
    At some point in the middle of my day, I will: __________________________

  • Evening Wind-Down:
    Before bed, I will: __________________________

  • My Daily Non-Negotiable:
    Every day, no matter what, I will: __________________________

• For premium subscribers, we have

One Step at a Time.

If today’s newsletter helped simplify your spiritual life, share it with a brother who feels overwhelmed.

And be sure to listen to this week’s Faith Forward Podcast:“A Simple Rule of Life for Regular Guys.”

Hit reply and tell me: Which anchor are you choosing as your focus this week?

I’d love to hear.

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