My Journey into Spiritual Formation
I remember the first time I truly understood the concept of spiritual formation. It was a moment of realization during a quiet retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. I had been practicing my faith for years, but something felt missing. I longed for a deeper connection with God, a transformation that went beyond routine prayers and Sunday services.
During that retreat, I encountered the definition of spiritual formation by Robert Mulholland Jr.:
“The process of being formed into the image of Jesus for the sake of others.”
This idea resonated deeply with me. It wasn't just about my personal relationship with Jesus; it was about becoming more like Him for the benefit of those around me. This was the beginning of my journey into spiritual formation.
What is Spiritual Formation?
Spiritual formation is often misunderstood as a static process. Many people believe that once you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, your spiritual journey is complete. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. Spiritual formation is a dynamic, ongoing journey of being shaped and molded into the image of Jesus.
The -Process- of Spiritual Formation
1. It’s An Ongoing Journey
Accepting Jesus is just the beginning. Spiritual formation is an ongoing journey that involves continual growth and transformation. Just like any relationship, our relationship with Jesus requires nurturing, commitment, and intentionality. It’s not a one-time event but a lifelong process.
2. We Cooperate with God’s Work in Us
Spiritual formation involves engaging in practices that help us cooperate with God’s work in our lives. These practices, known as spiritual disciplines, include prayer, meditation, studying Scripture, fasting, and worship. By consistently engaging in these practices, we open ourselves up to God’s transformative work in us, allowing our faith to mature.
Being -Formed- by God
3. God is the Initiator
God is the one who initiates and guides our spiritual growth. He is the master potter, molding and shaping us to become more like Jesus. Our role is to be receptive and responsive to His work in us. As we surrender to His will and follow His guidance, we experience deeper transformation.
Reflecting the -Image- of Jesus
4. Christlikeness is God’s Purpose For Us
Our ultimate goal in spiritual formation is to become more like Jesus. This Christlikeness is not just for our benefit but is God’s purpose for us. As we grow in our resemblance to Jesus, we reflect His love, grace, and truth to the world around us. This transformation is not about achieving perfection but about embodying the qualities of Jesus in our daily lives.
For the -Sake- of Others
5. Being Christ’s Ambassadors
Our spiritual formation is not just for ourselves; it’s for the sake of others. As we become more like Jesus, we are called to be His ambassadors, sharing the Gospel and His love with those around us. Our transformed lives become a testament to God’s work, drawing others to Him and encouraging them on their own spiritual journeys.
Biblical Foundation: 2 Corinthians 3:17-18
The Bible beautifully illustrates the concept of spiritual formation in 2 Corinthians 3:17-18:
"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit."
This verse highlights the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. As we behold the Lord’s glory, we are gradually transformed into His image. This transformation is a process, an ongoing journey of becoming more like Jesus, fueled by the Spirit's power and presence in our lives.
Spiritual Practices for Growth
To actively participate in our spiritual formation, we can incorporate various spiritual practices into our daily lives. Here are a few practices to consider:
- Prayer: Engage in regular, heartfelt communication with God.
- Meditation: Reflect on Scripture and God's presence in your life.
- Bible Study: Dive deep into the Word to understand God's truths and apply them.
- Fasting: Deny yourself to focus more intently on God and seek His guidance.
- Worship: Express your love and adoration for God through songs, hymns, and acts of praise.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Spiritual formation is a journey that requires intentionality and openness to God’s work in our lives. As we engage in spiritual practices and seek to become more like Jesus, we not only experience personal transformation but also become a source of God’s love and grace to others.
I invite you to take the next step in your spiritual formation journey. Consider incorporating one new spiritual practice into your daily routine this week. Whether it’s setting aside time for prayer, meditation, or studying Scripture, commit to it and observe how God begins to transform you.
If you need guidance, feel free to subscribe to my newsletter, "Your Spiritual Practices," for weekly insights and support on your journey. Together, let’s grow into the image of Jesus for the sake of others.
Have a blessed day!
Mike
I know for me, the more you want to be like Jesus, and wanting people to see Jesus in us, you desire to want to get deeper in the relationship with God, seems like the Holy Spirit in us, wants to be fed more, I think all of us wants that deeper connection at some time or the other. Thanks for sharing this. It makes me more aware of things I can do, to reach that hunger.