We perform morning rituals on autopilot, starting the day in a half-comatose way. Feet hit the floor and the routine begins: ablutions, caffeine, breakfast, and clothes in personalized order. We hopefully reach full-consciousness before leaving the house.

I added two spiritual habits to my morning schedule over the past year. I first recite the Lord’s Prayer rather than a traditional blessing before breakfast. I linger on various words, phrases, and concepts, reflecting on their meaning.

Then I list five personal blessings in my mental Gratitude Journal. I count my many blessings, name them one by one, and see what God has done.

The two spiritual disciplines help me claim and proclaim, This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it! (Psalm 118:24)

Habits are value neutral—they can be good or bad. Spiritual practices harness routine’s power. Regular repetition becomes habitual practice.

Each day dawns with fresh promise. Well begun is half done. What morning rituals help you start the day with the Lord?