Summary of The Life You've Always Wanted by John Ortberg

In this book, John Ortberg (1997) outlines a series of practices designed to advance the spiritual growth of the reader. Taking the rallying cry of the Morphin Power Rangers, he uses the statement “It’s morphing time” (Ortberg, 1997, p. 21) to signify a call for humans to evolve into spiritually disciplined, Christ-like creatures.

The first spiritual discipline highlighted is that of celebration. Too often the reality of the world clouds the reality of the life we have been given. Ortberg (1997) challenges the readers to experience “Dee Dah Days” in their lives, after the song his daughter would sing as she danced with joy. He advises the importance of counting blessings and treating joy as a serious essential in life.

Next, Ortberg (1997) identifies “Slowing”, or removing hurry, as an essential discipline. To master this discipline, people should look for opportunities where they are forced to wait. For instance, in the grocery, pick the checkout line with the most people. In addition, practicing solitude allows for the noise of the world to dissipate and for the calm of the Lord to enter the heart.

Prayer is the next discipline discussed. Ortberg (1997) makes the case that prayer does affect the world and is an essential part of a Christian’s daily life. To develop this discipline, it is best to reserve the same time each day and to start small, with five minute durations, and gradually extend the time. In this way, people can make this a lifelong practice.

Servanthood is the next spiritual discipline and is primarily centered on becoming less so that others can become more. To master this discipline, people should do the mundane without looking for thanks, be alert for those interruptions of their daily routines where they can minister to others, and be in the moment with others rather than focusing the conversation on themselves.

With the discipline of confession, one first examines the sins and reasons why they occurred. The confessor then empathizes with those who were injured and promises not to repeat the sin in any way. Finally, the confessor experiences the grace of God knowing that he or she is forgiven.

The practice of secrecy involves doing things for others and growing closer to God without trumpeting these feats to others. Just as a husband and wife have secrets they share only between the two of them, so too should Christians do good deeds or have experiences with God that are known to only God and them. This especially strengthens Christians who are addicted to the approval of others.

Lastly, reflection on Scripture is essential in becoming cleansed from the worldly and immersed in the righteous ways of God. Ortberg (1997) cautions readers not to read too quickly through Scripture, but to meditate on short passages or phrases in letting God speak to them through His Word.

Ortberg (1997) closes by encouraging readers to have the heart of Jesus in all that they do and to persevere through all trials, small and large.

Ortberg, J. (1997). The life you’ve always wanted: Spiritual disciplines for ordinary people. Grand Rapids, MI.: Zondervan.