Introduction

This session encourages us to take an inventory of the forces shaping our lives. The practice of formation helps integrate our faith with daily experiences and guides us toward transformation. By examining habits, relationships, stories, environment, and experiences, we align more closely with our faith and respond to the call to be with Jesus.

Formation Audit: Understanding Influences

  • The exercise asks us to identify and reflect on the habits that constitute our everyday life. Consider your morning and evening routines, activities on workdays and weekends.


  • Reflection Question: How do you think your habits are shaping you as a person?


Additional Notes:

Relationships: Understanding Impact

Sub-point: Influence of People

  • Evaluate how relationships with family, friends, colleagues, and your community shape who you are. Think about what these individuals draw out or suppress in you.


  • Reflection Question: What kind of person do you become when you are around certain people?


Additional Notes:

Core Beliefs: Understanding Stories

Sub-point: Stories We Believe

  • Identify the stories you believe about God, yourself, happiness, and the meaning of life. These narratives can profoundly impact your perspective and actions.


  • Reflection Question: What are the core stories of your life, and are they forming you positively?


Additional Notes:

Environment: Understanding Context

Sub-point: Cultural Influences

  • Reflect on the cultural forces in your city, nation, generation, and digital interactions. Consider how these may form or deform you spiritually and emotionally.


  • Reflection Question: How are the cultural norms in your environment shaping your faith and character?


Additional Notes:

Conclusion

Through this exercise, you gain insight into the various factors molding your identity and spiritual walk. By reflecting on these areas, you can realign with the vision of Jesus, fostering a life of love, joy, peace, and other fruits of the spirit. Take these insights as a guide for ongoing spiritual growth.

Reflection Questions


What habits can you identify from your daily life that either draw you closer to or farther from Jesus?


In what ways can you reshape your environment or relationships to better reflect the values of the Kingdom of God?


Consider the stories you believe about yourself or the world. How can you revise these narratives to align more closely with your faith?