Stop Charging Into Battle Without Prayer: Why Spiritual Formation Must Come Before Social Action

Why Christians Must Prioritize Spiritual Formation Before Pursuing Social Justice

Author Bruce Barron argues in a new review for Christian Daily International that spiritual disciplines must come before social action for Christians who want to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Barron draws on the example of Simon Peter's rash sword attack in the Garden of Gethsemane, cutting off the ear of the high priest's servant, as a cautionary tale of what happens when believers act out of impulse rather than spiritual grounding.

The article centers on Wes Granberg Michaelson's book The Soulwork of Justice: Four Movements for Contemplative Action, published by Orbis Books. Granberg Michaelson, the former general secretary of the Reformed Church in America, spent eight years as an aide on Capitol Hill before recognizing that spiritual practices were essential for effective activism.

A Christian needs to do contemplative practice to be spiritually consequential.

Granberg Michaelson identifies four pathways to spiritual transformation: moving from self sufficiency to belonging, from certainty to connection, from grandiosity to authenticity, and from control to trust.

His book also highlights two core convictions for social engagement: maintaining long term, persistent commitment because social change takes time, and keeping openness toward opponents rather than demonizing them.

Barron also references David French, the New York Times evangelical opinion writer, who advocates for meaningful Christian action in the public square, as well as the late Senator Mark Hatfield, a moderate Republican known as a prominent Christian voice and Vietnam War opponent.

The review concludes by recommending that Christians begin this contemplative work during Lent, the season of spiritual preparation and self examination that began on Ash Wednesday this week.

How Contemplative Prayer and Spiritual Disciplines Strengthen Christian Activism

The central message of The Soulwork of Justice challenges the modern impulse among believers to jump straight into activism without first anchoring themselves in prayer, journaling, retreats, and spiritual direction.

Granberg Michaelson was initially resistant to these practices but came to understand through decades of experience that contemplative prayer forms the foundation for lasting, effective Christian engagement with the world.

The Crusader's Opinion

This is a message every Christian activist needs to hear. Too many of us charge into the culture war with the same frantic energy as the world, and we wonder why we burn out, lash out, or lose our way. If Peter himself, standing right next to Christ, could swing a sword in reckless panic, what makes us think we can fight effectively without being rooted in prayer first? The Left wants you reactive. God wants you ready. Get on your knees before you get on your soapbox. That is how Christendom endures.

Take Action

• Commit to a daily prayer discipline this Lent. Set aside 15 minutes each morning for contemplative prayer and Scripture reading before engaging with the news or social media.
• Read The Soulwork of Justice by Wes Granberg Michaelson, available from Orbis Books or Amazon.
• Support persecuted Christians around the world who face real consequences for their faith by donating to The Shepherd's Shield or Open Doors.
• Start or join a small group at your church focused on spiritual formation and contemplative practices during the Lenten season.
• Share this article with fellow believers who are engaged in social action and advocacy. Remind them that spiritual depth fuels lasting impact.