e*sf Week 3

Essentials in Spiritual Formation Week 3 Discussion Q&A

Question:
This third week we looked at “Fire,” and have been reflecting on our need for a constant empowering from the Holy Spirit to live a substantial life that impacts the world all around us. Disciples of Jesus, across history, have recognized their need for the Spirit of God to do more in and through them than they could ever do in their own strength.

Considering Jesus’ life, what are the “Fire” 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 empowered life” that have worked well for you, and draw wisdom in your areas of weakness from others’ posts.

Answer:
This week’s topic has reminded me of an illustration of a car coasting downhill. Because of gravity and momentum, the car can go for a while on it’s own, but once the hill levels, unless there is fuel in the tank, it will eventually coast to a halt. I believe the element of fire/power is critical to keep us moving forward.

NT Wright said in “Simply Christian” that, “Without God’s Spirit, there is nothing we can do to count for God’s Kingdom.” (1) I believe this is the place I must start: reliance on the Holy Spirit. Without His presence and power, there is no point. Our own efforts will only take us so far.

In “The Elemental Life,” Dan Wilt offers suggestions for living an empowered life. One is to establish a core prayer circle. Another is to “Choose to place yourself in obedience situations that feel somewhat uncomfortable, but into which you have been invited by God.” (2)

God invited me earlier this year to begin a nonprofit ministry for worship development. (www.simply-worship.org). Much of what I have been learning here with worshiptraining.com has poured directly into the vision and mission of this ministry.

This is my destiny and it drives me with great passion, but my own energies, ideas and efforts will only take it so far. I must balance my passion with complete dependence on His power to enable me to pull it off. What He has called me to is beyond my ability, but not beyond His.

Because I realize my own inadequacies and my need of Him, I have a formal prayer shield of trusted friends who take prayer seriously. They cover and fight for me in the heavenly realms. I rely on them to hold my arms up and speak life and encouragement into me when I get overwhelmed and tired. They help fan the flame!

1) NT Wright, “Simply Christian,” Harper One, 2006, P 122
2) Dan Wilt, “The Elemental Life” eBook, www.worshiptraining.com, P 25