
Photo by Randy Tarampi on Unsplash
1. Aligning with God’s Design – An Introduction to 8Moves
The 8 Moves approach to spiritual growth connects the rhythms of creation with the core human call to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30). Each Move corresponds with a movement in Genesis 1 and is aligned with a human trait:
- Mind (Discernment) – Light, Water
- Strength (Humility) – Land, Time
- Heart (Connection) – Life, Work
- Soul (Transformation) – Rest, Rebirth
This framework invites us to move with the patterns of creation, finding rhythm, clarity, and renewal in our walk with God. 8 Moves is not just a devotional—it’s a whole-life strategy for spiritual alignment. It can guide your prayer life, your relationships, your pace of living, and your deepest longings.
Join us on this journey to learn the unique gifts each Move offers and how they bring us into wholeness. Whether you’re starting fresh or seeking a deeper rhythm, this path can ground you in God’s design.
2. Cultivating the Mind – Illuminate through Light and Water
The first area of focus in the 8 Moves journey is the Mind—the place of discernment, clarity, and reflection.
- Light reveals what’s true. It helps us see what we couldn’t before—both in the world and within ourselves.
- Water helps us respond with grace. It adapts, moves, and cleanses, giving us the clarity to navigate life’s challenges.
When we cultivate the mind with these two Moves, we begin to live with purpose rather than reaction. We start recognizing where God is moving and what is required of us in response.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105 ESV)
“Whoever believes in me… out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” (John 7:38 ESV)
Practice: Reflect on what’s being revealed in your life. Where are you being called to clarity or flexibility?
3. Building Strength – Establish through Land and Time
Strength is more than physical energy—it’s spiritual resilience and grounded faith. The Moves of Land and Time help us become rooted in God’s purposes.
- Land gives stability. It reminds us of our place, our responsibilities, and our connection to what lasts.
- Time trains us in endurance and rhythm. It teaches us to move with seasons rather than against them.
Together, these Moves cultivate humility—the kind of strength that doesn’t shout, but stands firm. We are reminded that strength in God’s kingdom often looks like patience, commitment, and faithful presence.
“The Lord is my rock… in whom I take refuge.” (Psalm 18:2 ESV)
“So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12 ESV)
Practice: What is God calling you to tend over time? Where is He asking you to stay grounded?
4. Living from the Heart – Thrive through Life and Work
The Heart is where we connect—with others, with purpose, and with the presence of God. The Moves of Life and Work draw us into love, unity, and action.
- Life represents God’s breath in us—our relationships, desires, and creativity.
- Work is our response—what we build, cultivate, and contribute in the world.
When we live from the heart, we stop striving for identity and start creating from it. These Moves invite us to integrate love and labor, faith and function.
“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10 ESV)
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” (Colossians 3:23 ESV)
Practice: What brings you joy in your relationships or your work? Where is your heart coming alive?
5. Restoring the Soul – Transform through Rest and Rebirth
The Soul is where deep transformation occurs—when we let go of old patterns and receive new life from God. The Moves of Rest and Rebirth complete the cycle.
- Rest is not just about stopping; it’s about realigning with our source. It reminds us we are not machines.
- Rebirth is about new beginnings, even in the face of loss, failure, or fatigue.
Together, these Moves teach us that transformation often happens in stillness, not striving. Our souls are restored when we surrender.
“Come to me… and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 ESV)
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” (2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV)
Practice: Where do you need to stop and listen? What part of your soul is ready for renewal?
6. What Each Move Offers You – A Path to Wholeness
Each Move offers a distinct gift to your journey. Here is a poetic summary:
- Light gives clarity
- Water brings refreshment
- Land offers stability
- Time teaches wisdom
- Life sparks connection
- Work channels purpose
- Rest invites peace
- Rebirth ignites hope
When practiced together, these rhythms form a path to wholeness. You’re not meant to master them all at once. You’re invited to walk them in step with God.
Save this as a reference. Meditate on one line each day. Let the gift of each Move sink into your spirit.
7. Practicing 8 Moves – Tools for Daily Life
This journey is not just conceptual—it’s deeply practical. Each Move can shape your daily life through small but powerful habits. Here are some ideas:
- Light: Spend 5 minutes reflecting on a scripture or quote that brings clarity.
- Water: Practice releasing what’s outside your control in prayer.
- Land: Tend to your space—clean something or walk barefoot outside.
- Time: Choose a simple rhythm for your day: morning stillness, afternoon pause.
- Life: Write a message of encouragement to someone.
- Work: Dedicate a task to God. Work with purpose, not pressure.
- Rest: Take 10 minutes of true rest—no screens, no agenda.
- Rebirth: Journal a letting-go and a starting-fresh.
These habits may seem small, but they can reorient your life over time.
Practice daily. Share weekly. Grow deeply.
8. Join 8 Moves Today
The 8 Moves is not a program—it’s a journey. One that honors your whole being—Mind, Strength, Heart, and Soul—and aligns with God’s creative design. You’re not behind. You’re just getting started.
We offer tools and community to support your growth:
- Daily devotionals sent straight to your inbox.
- Weekly Zoom gatherings for conversation and prayer.
- A space to reflect, grow, and walk with others.
Ready to begin?
- Subscribe to 8 Moves Daily: Subscribe here for the 8 Moves Daily Devotional.
- Join a Tuesday Zoom: Here’s the Zoom page link.
- Fill out the “Before Starting 8 Moves” survey: Here’s the survey link.
- If you have questions, email Glen at: [email protected]
There’s a place for you here. Let’s walk it together.
Can’t wait to grow closer to God and commit on this journey.
Sounds great Nathan, good to hear from you.