Take a minute and unlock your phone. Go ahead – I’ll wait…
Now, check the last five apps you accessed. What do you see? Scrolling through social media reels? Playing games like Spelling Bee (my favorite)? Reading political articles or tracking the stock market? Messaging friends? Shopping for Christmas gifts?
For many of us, we spend a great deal of time on our devices. And while our phones are just one cross section of our life, they speak a lot about how we spend our time, what we dwell on and ultimately play a part in how we are being formed.
As Christians, formation is being formed into the image of Christ….for the sake of others.
We are continuously being shaped by the external influences around us. It’s important that we consider who we’re listening to, what advice we are accepting, and which ideals are quietly steering our decisions. The real question isn’t just whether we’re being formed; it’s about who or what is doing the shaping in our lives. Reflect on these influences - are they guiding you toward growth or leading you astray?
2 Corinthians 3:18 challenges us: “So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord – who is the Spirit – makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.
Ask yourself: am I truly reflecting the glory of the Lord? If the answer is no, then we have some work to do. Would you join me in evaluating your own formation?
Am I being patient with the Lord’s timing and His process of formation in my life? How am I embracing this lifelong journey of pursuing Him as He pursues me?
Am I fully surrendered to the Holy Spirit? What specific areas of my life am I resisting His shaping influence? How can I lean into discomfort for the sake of my growth?
How are my daily actions shaping me to become more like Christ? If my habits aren’t fostering this growth, what do I need to eliminate? If they are, how can I deepen my commitment to them?
These are tough questions to answer authentically. But when we allow the transformative work of the Holy Spirit to intersect our everyday, we become more like Him. I want that. I hope you do too!
Our leadership team has been dreaming and planning about formation and what it means for each of us at White Oak. We will have more to share in the coming months but for now I invite you to take a closer look at your own formation journey.
In closing, I am excited to share with you that my role at White Oak has shifted and I am now serving as the Formations Pastor. I look forward to and am honored to walk with you in your formation journey. If you are serious about spiritual formation and the transformative work in your life and the lives of others, let’s connect. If you feel stuck on your own formation journey, let’s talk. I’d love to have coffee, invite you to dinner, or simply discuss how we can pursue deeper transformation together. You can reach me at efeiser@thewocc.com.
Let’s commit to being formed for the sake of others.
Erin
Erin Feiser
Formations Pastor