Intentional Spiritual Formation: Becoming Like Christ Daily
Summary
### Summary
This morning, we gathered to explore the profound concept of spiritual formation, particularly focusing on how we are being shaped and molded in our everyday lives to become more like Christ. We began by acknowledging that everyone is constantly being formed by various influences, whether they realize it or not. This formation is not exclusive to Christians; it is a universal human experience. However, as followers of Christ, our goal is to be intentionally formed to reflect His character, motivations, and desires.
We delved into Romans 12:1-2, where Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. This transformation is an intentional process, requiring us to fix our attention on God rather than conforming to the patterns of this world. The Message version of the Bible beautifully captures this by encouraging us to place our everyday, ordinary lives before God as an offering.
We discussed how spiritual formation happens not just in church or during Bible studies but in the mundane, everyday moments of life. Whether it's dealing with an annoying coworker, persevering in a job we don't enjoy, or managing chaotic life situations, God uses these experiences to refine our character and make us more like Christ. Personal anecdotes, such as my own experience during maternity leave, illustrated how God can do His deepest work in the most unexpected and ordinary circumstances.
We also emphasized the importance of relationships in our spiritual formation. The people we spend the most time with significantly influence who we become. This is why being part of a church community and engaging in discipleship groups is crucial. It allows us to be surrounded by individuals who encourage and challenge us to grow in our faith.
Finally, we were reminded that spiritual formation is a lifelong journey. It's not about ticking off tasks on a to-do list but about being in a loving, dynamic relationship with Jesus. As we grow in this relationship, we should see an increase in love, wisdom, and discernment in our lives.
### Key Takeaways
1. Intentional Spiritual Formation: Spiritual formation is an ongoing, intentional process where we aim to become more like Christ. This requires us to be mindful of our habits, influences, and the time we spend with God. Without intentionality, we risk being unconsciously shaped by the world around us. [36:10]
2. Everyday Moments Matter: God uses the ordinary, mundane moments of our lives to form us. Whether it's dealing with difficult people or persevering through challenging situations, these experiences are opportunities for spiritual growth and character development. [41:40]
3. The Power of Relationships: The people we spend the most time with significantly influence our spiritual formation. Being part of a church community and engaging in discipleship groups helps us surround ourselves with individuals who encourage and challenge us to grow in our faith. [50:41]
4. Non-Conformity to the World: Paul urges us not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. This requires us to fix our attention on God and be mindful of how we might be unconsciously fitting into worldly patterns. [39:40]
5. Lifelong Journey of Love: Spiritual formation is not a linear process but a lifelong journey of growing in love, wisdom, and discernment. It's about being in a dynamic relationship with Jesus, where we continually see His love overflow into every area of our lives. [49:40]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[32:40] - Opening Prayer
[33:10] - Introduction to Practising the Way
[34:10] - What is Spiritual Formation?
[35:40] - Intentional Formation to be Like Christ
[36:40] - Romans 12:1-2: Living Sacrifice
[38:40] - Responding to God's Mercy
[39:40] - Non-Conformity to the World
[41:40] - Everyday Moments of Formation
[43:40] - Personal Testimony: Maternity Leave
[45:10] - Applying Faith to Whole Life
[47:41] - Fixing Attention on God
[48:41] - Be with Jesus, Become Like Jesus, Do What Jesus Did
[50:41] - The Influence of Relationships
[53:46] - Dangers of Church Hopping
[55:47] - Final Encouragement and Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Romans 12:1-2 (NIV): "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
### Observation Questions
1. What does Paul mean by offering our bodies as a "living sacrifice"? ([37:40])
2. How does Paul describe the process of transformation in Romans 12:2? ([39:40])
3. According to the sermon, what are some everyday moments that God uses for our spiritual formation? ([41:40])
4. How does the Message version of Romans 12:1-2 differ in its wording and what additional insights does it provide? ([40:10])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to be intentional about our spiritual formation rather than letting it happen by accident? ([36:10])
2. How can the mundane moments of life, such as dealing with an annoying coworker or persevering in a job we don't enjoy, contribute to our spiritual growth? ([41:40])
3. What role do relationships play in our spiritual formation, and why is being part of a church community crucial? ([50:41])
4. How does non-conformity to the world, as urged by Paul, manifest in our daily lives? ([39:40])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your daily habits and influences. Are there any that you need to change to be more intentional about your spiritual formation? ([36:10])
2. Think about a recent mundane or challenging situation you faced. How might God have been using that experience to shape your character? ([41:40])
3. Identify the five people you spend the most time with. How are they influencing your spiritual growth, and are there any changes you need to make in your relationships? ([50:41])
4. In what ways might you be unconsciously conforming to the patterns of this world? How can you fix your attention more on God to be transformed? ([39:40])
5. How can you apply your faith to your whole life, not just in church or during Bible studies, but in everyday tasks and interactions? ([45:10])
6. Reflect on your journey with Jesus. Can you see progress in your spiritual growth compared to last year? What specific areas do you want to focus on for further growth? ([56:18])
7. How can you cultivate a deeper, loving relationship with Jesus that overflows into every area of your life? ([49:40])
Devotional
Day 1: Intentional Spiritual Formation
Spiritual formation is an ongoing, intentional process where we aim to become more like Christ. This requires us to be mindful of our habits, influences, and the time we spend with God. Without intentionality, we risk being unconsciously shaped by the world around us. [36:10]
Spiritual formation is not something that happens by accident. It requires a deliberate and conscious effort to align our lives with the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. This means being aware of the influences that shape us, whether they are cultural, social, or personal. By intentionally focusing on our spiritual growth, we can ensure that we are being molded into the image of Christ rather than being conformed to the patterns of this world. This involves regular practices such as prayer, reading Scripture, and engaging in community with other believers.
In Romans 12:1-2, Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. This transformation is an intentional process that requires us to fix our attention on God. By doing so, we can resist the pressures to conform to worldly standards and instead be shaped by God's will for our lives. This intentionality in our spiritual formation helps us to grow in our faith and become more like Christ in our character, motivations, and desires.
Romans 12:1-2 (ESV): "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
Reflection: What specific habits or influences in your life are shaping you the most right now? How can you be more intentional about allowing God to shape you instead?
Day 2: Everyday Moments Matter
God uses the ordinary, mundane moments of our lives to form us. Whether it's dealing with difficult people or persevering through challenging situations, these experiences are opportunities for spiritual growth and character development. [41:40]
Spiritual formation is not confined to church services or Bible studies; it happens in the everyday moments of our lives. God uses the ordinary and mundane experiences we go through to shape our character and make us more like Christ. This means that every interaction, every challenge, and every routine task is an opportunity for spiritual growth. For example, dealing with an annoying coworker or persevering in a job we don't enjoy can teach us patience, humility, and reliance on God.
These everyday moments are where God often does His deepest work in us. It's in the mundane and unexpected circumstances that we learn to trust Him more and develop Christ-like qualities. By recognizing that spiritual formation happens in these ordinary moments, we can approach our daily lives with a sense of purpose and openness to God's transformative work. This perspective helps us to see the value in every experience and to seek God's presence in all aspects of our lives.
Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV): "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
Reflection: Think of a recent mundane or challenging situation you faced. How can you see God's hand in that experience, and what is He teaching you through it?
Day 3: The Power of Relationships
The people we spend the most time with significantly influence our spiritual formation. Being part of a church community and engaging in discipleship groups helps us surround ourselves with individuals who encourage and challenge us to grow in our faith. [50:41]
Relationships play a crucial role in our spiritual formation. The people we spend the most time with have a significant impact on who we become. This is why being part of a church community and engaging in discipleship groups is so important. These relationships provide us with support, encouragement, and accountability as we seek to grow in our faith. They challenge us to live out our beliefs and help us to stay focused on our spiritual goals.
In a church community, we can find mentors and peers who model Christ-like behavior and inspire us to follow their example. Discipleship groups offer a space for deeper connections and discussions about our faith journeys. These relationships help us to stay grounded in our faith and provide a network of support during difficult times. By surrounding ourselves with individuals who are committed to growing in their faith, we can be encouraged and challenged to do the same.
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: Who are the people in your life that influence your spiritual growth the most? How can you be more intentional about building relationships that encourage and challenge you in your faith?
Day 4: Non-Conformity to the World
Paul urges us not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. This requires us to fix our attention on God and be mindful of how we might be unconsciously fitting into worldly patterns. [39:40]
As followers of Christ, we are called to live differently from the world around us. Paul urges us in Romans 12:2 not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. This means that we need to be aware of the ways in which we might be unconsciously fitting into worldly patterns and instead focus our attention on God. By doing so, we can discern His will for our lives and live in a way that is pleasing to Him.
Non-conformity to the world requires a conscious effort to resist the pressures and influences that seek to shape us according to worldly standards. This involves being mindful of the media we consume, the values we uphold, and the behaviors we engage in. By fixing our attention on God and allowing His Word to renew our minds, we can be transformed into the image of Christ. This transformation helps us to live out our faith authentically and to be a light in a world that often operates contrary to God's ways.
1 John 2:15-17 (ESV): "Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you find yourself conforming to worldly patterns? How can you renew your mind and focus your attention on God in those areas?
Day 5: Lifelong Journey of Love
Spiritual formation is not a linear process but a lifelong journey of growing in love, wisdom, and discernment. It's about being in a dynamic relationship with Jesus, where we continually see His love overflow into every area of our lives. [49:40]
Spiritual formation is a lifelong journey that involves growing in love, wisdom, and discernment. It is not about ticking off tasks on a to-do list but about being in a dynamic and loving relationship with Jesus. As we grow in this relationship, we should see an increase in love, wisdom, and discernment in our lives. This journey is marked by continual growth and transformation as we seek to become more like Christ.
Being in a dynamic relationship with Jesus means that we are constantly learning and being shaped by His love. This love should overflow into every area of our lives, influencing our thoughts, actions, and interactions with others. As we grow in our relationship with Jesus, we should also grow in our ability to love others, make wise decisions, and discern God's will for our lives. This lifelong journey requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to be continually transformed by God's grace.
Philippians 1:9-11 (ESV): "And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God."
Reflection: How can you cultivate a deeper, more dynamic relationship with Jesus today? What specific steps can you take to grow in love, wisdom, and discernment in your daily life?
Quotes
1. "Formation in general is really the forming of your character. It's the forming of your heart, your motivations, your desires. We are all being formed and shaped by one thing or another, whether we realize it or not. This is not a Christian thing. This is not just a Christian idea. Every person is being formed by what is around them. We are formed by our relationships. We're formed by what we watch on TV, or what we listen to, what we study, what we read. We are formed by our culture. We are formed by who we spend time with, the way we spend our time. All things are shaping and forming us every single day." [34:40] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So spiritual formation then, and the kind that we are going to be talking about as part of this series and always in this church, is that we want to be formed to be more like Christ. That is the goal. That is the aim. That is what we are working for daily. That is what we hope when we spend time in God's presence that we will be formed and we will be changed and be more like Christ. We're talking about being changed and transformed in our inner heart, in our character, that we would have his heart, his character, his motivation, his desires." [35:10] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We need to be intentional in this then if we want to become more like Christ. We have to think about our habits and our practices. We have to think about our influences, our time. And if we don't think about this and we're not intentional, it doesn't mean that formation isn't happening. It is still happening. It just means that we might be being formed by accident by the things around us that we never really thought or intended to have an influence on our lives." [36:10] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Offer your bodies as living sacrifices. Offer your whole lives to God. This is why I've been really clear that this is an invitation that we are talking about. It's an invitation to come and practice the way during the week with us. It's an invitation to discipleship because the reality is this is not an obligation. Paul says, in view of God's mercy. He wants them to know fully what Christ has done. To see the mercy and the sacrifice of God and to respond and worship by giving their lives to Him." [38:10] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Think back on your testimony of why you're here today. Think back on what God has done in your life. That is what should motivate us in response to God's love to us to live out of love for Him. And then it says this in verse 2. Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Again, it's such intentional language because Paul knows if we don't make an intentional effort to be conformed to Christ then the default is that we will be conformed to whatever else. There's no gap. Something will fill it." [39:10] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "We are talking about what it looks like to follow Jesus in our everyday, ordinary lives. And you know what? I guarantee that there is enough in your everyday, ordinary life that God would use for spiritual formation to make you more like Christ. What about that annoying person at work? How do you think they could be refining your character right now? Or that job that you're not really enjoying? How could God be working in you to form you to be more like Christ and your perseverance for showing up every day with a good attitude?" [41:40] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "You know, sometimes we look at the Bible studies we do or the prayer meetings that we attend as the spaces where God is forming us to be more like Christ. And these things are really important. They are really important. But we are told to take our everyday, ordinary life and to place it before God as an offering because these are the places where we really see how God is forming us and how God is changing us, how God is working on us." [42:10] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "People want to know how they can grow with God and they often think that it's by leading a Bible study or serving in the ministries here. That's what they often ask me. How can I serve? How can I do something in some sort of position of leadership that will feel like it's important? Well I would encourage you to grow with God by applying your faith to your whole life. You would grow more sweeping the floors putting the chairs away and cleaning the toilets than anything else I guarantee it." [45:10] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "There used to be a really great song by Casting Crowns. It was a band when I was growing up and it was called The Slow Fade. Not this Slow Fade, it was just Slow Fade I think. And it went like this. It said it's a slow fade when you give yourself away. It's a slow fade when black and white turn to grey. And this is the reality and I don't mean walking about black and white with loads of big opinions about everything right? We aren't far away from God overnight is what it means. It's a slow fade because we make choices don't we? Daily choices every single day. Small choices that make us more and more comfortable in the world and more and more uncomfortable in church." [46:41] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "We are refined by being in a church with people who are different from us. We're refined by being fully and wholly in a place for a long time we really see God doing a deep work. We are refined by the differences, we're refined by the annoying, we're refined by the people we don't understand, we are refined by the frustration and allowing God to work in the midst of it, being committed to working in the midst of it and growing together in difficult times in love and that is not easy but when we allow God to work he moves in incredible ways." [55:17] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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