e*sf Week 2

Essentials in Spiritual Formation Week 2 Discussion Q&A

Question:
Building now on our readings and reflection, we looked this week at “Wind,” and the strange idea that personal inspiration may have more to do with our spiritual development (and even discipleship) than we ever thought before.

Looking at Jesus’ life, what are the “Wind” habits that you feel like you are currently strong in, and which are those areas that you feel weak? What strengthened you from your readings/media this week? Share your ideas on “the inspired life” that have worked well for you, and draw wisdom in your areas of weakness from others’ posts.

Answer:
There is much to be said about “self care.” Denying ourselves to the point of losing who we are for the sake of everyone and everything around us is no longer a virtue, but a liability. We are created in the image of God, and each of us is uniquely designed to do what God called us uniquely to do. The Church has been quite effective in highlighting the depravity of man, but what about the beauty, purpose and unique expressions of the image of God that is man?

I believe as we come to know our true selves, and walk out of the grounded places that we talked about in Week 1, we will be more in tune to what makes our spirit soar, and more apt to let ourselves enjoy it. If we do not live from the places that do not move, we will not be moved by the things that *should* move us.

There is nothing more inspiring than to step into your destiny and finding the thing that you were uniquely created to do. I am thankful that, although the journey has been extremely painful at times, God has set me on course to realize mine. The thing I dreamed of doing is becoming a reality before my eyes. When I talk about it, my heart beats stronger and faster. I can’t not do it. This is inspiring.

Other expressions of wind in my life are: time with my closest friends, new music, big windows, mountain trails, the ocean, sunsets and creating thresholds and language for worship.