“We have to remember that we are formed supernaturally in one place and in one place only: before the face of God, in Christ, by the Spirit. . . . But we often go looking for other ground to stand on. . . . We’re often afraid that if we don’t actualize ourselves and make something of ourselves, then no one will uphold us and our life will come apart.”- Kyle Strobel and John Coe
“For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”- Colossians 2:3 (ESV)
In Chapter 9 (“Relearning the Path of Love”) of When God Seems Silent, Kyle Strobel and John Coe note that, when things seem hopeless, we need to remember the depth of the good news. That Christ is ours in faith. Therefore, in light of the good news of Jesus, Kyle and John pose these questions:
- How are our lives purified?
- What does it look like to grow in affection rather than passion, to grow in goodness without being moralistic?
- What does it look like to give our lives to the Lord rather than fixing ourselves?
Furthermore, the authors stress, spiritual formation looks far different than the fantasy of self-actualization. Because spiritual formation requires that we start precisely where we are. And draw near to the God who is perfect love. Hence, we draw near because our sin and brokenness no longer define us. Instead, Christ and His righteousness define us.
Therefore, Kyle and John ask that you pause for a moment to ponder the above thought. For, Kyle and John explain and reiterate:
“Spiritual formation requires us to pause and seek the truth, naming how our guilt, shame, fear, and anxiety have led us, and also the various ways our pride, jealousy, and greed still infiltrate our decisions. We need to see and name these things to draw near to the God who is perfect love.”
Today’s question: What most helps you to remember you are formed supernaturally? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: the July Short Meditation, “Come to the water – and listen”