SPIRITUAL FORMATION BLOG

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Feb 20, 2024

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Nurturing Spiritual Growth: A Seminary Student's Plan of Action Introduction Spiritual formation is a deeply personal and transformative journey. I recognize the significance of spiritual development not only in my own life but also in my future ministry. In this blog, I will outline a comprehensive plan of action to implement into my ministry, drawing upon the concept of the ecology of human interaction as it applies to spiritual development. By understanding the complex web of relationships and environments that shape our spiritual lives, a community can foster a deeper connection with our Savoir and Risen Lord and support others in their spiritual journey. I will conclude with some advice for anyone who is considering seminary. Understanding Spiritual Formation Before delving into the plan of action, it's essential to grasp the concept of spiritual formation. Spiritual formation refers to the process of becoming more Christlike. It involves

growth in character, deepening of faith, and alignment with the values and teachings of Scripture and a personal relationship with Jesus, God’s Son. The Ecology of Human Interaction The ecology of human interaction is a concept borrowed from environmental science and adapted to the study of human relationships and development. In this context, it refers to the interconnectedness of various factors that influence an individual's spiritual growth. Just as ecosystems consist of multiple elements that interact with each other, spiritual development is shaped by various interrelated factors, including community, mentors, personal practices, and the broader cultural context. Each of these factors we will individually consider in this blog. Plan of Action 1. Creating Supportive Communities My focus will be on the creation of a supportive community. The community will be designed to serve as a safe and nurturing haven where individuals can freely explore their faith, share their personal experiences, and mutually enrich their spiritual journeys. To facilitate this, I fellowship events. In this endeavor, I draw inspiration from the example set by Jesus himself. He exemplified compassion in his interactions with those society deemed as outcasts or impure. I am reminded of the scripture from Luke 5:29–30, which recounts the occasion when Levi hosted a grand feast in his house. At this gathering, a diverse assembly of tax collectors and individuals

will actively foster a sense of togetherness through regular group discussions, prayer, and considered as sinners reclined at the table with Jesus. In response, the Pharisees and their scribes expressed disapproval, questioning Jesus' choice to dine with tax collectors and sinners. Yet, Jesus' conduct demonstrated a profound truth about holiness. In line with this approach, my ministry seeks to emulate Jesus' compassionate table fellowship. I will aspire to create a His holiness was not fragile or easily tainted; it was a force of unparalleled power and contagious purity. He possessed the intrinsic ability to transcend ritual impurity and human uncleanness, rendering people spiritually cleansed and pure. In contrast to a judgmental stance, Jesus’ attitude toward those bound by impurity and uncleanness overflowed with mercy and compassion.

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community where individuals from all walks of life, irrespective of their past or perceived impurities, are warmly welcomed. By doing so the ministry should see spiritual growth thrive in an atmosphere of acceptance, compassion, and unity. Through my actions and attitudes, I aim to reflect the boundless love of God, embracing all with open hearts and minds as a community which collectively embarks on their spiritual journey. 1 2. Nurturing Holiness: The Power of Reciprocal Exchanges in the Body of Christ Within the body of Christ, the significance of reciprocal exchanges cannot be overstated. These exchanges provide us with invaluable opportunities to disseminate the contagion of holiness. As we engage in these mutual interactions, we become more intricately connected to one another, thereby enhancing the prospects for continuous personal growth and development. It is crucial to recognize that our actions, whether undertaken individually or collectively, have a profound impact on others, whether that influence is direct or indirect. 2 The connections and interactions that define the functioning of the body of Christ, as eloquently depicted by the Apostle Paul in his writings such as 1 Corinthians 12:12 and Ephesians 4:16, yield a beautiful outcome: mutual growth within the body. The more we engage in reciprocal exchanges, the more the body of Christ thrives and flourishes. 1 Stephen D. Lowe and Mary E. Lowe, Ecologies of Faith in a Digital Age: Spiritual Growth through Online Education (Downer’s Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2018), 190. 2 Stephen D. Lowe and Mary E. Lowe, Ecologies of Faith in a Digital Age: Spiritual Growth through Online Education (Downer’s Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2018), 131. In the spirit of unity and interconnectedness, we must appreciate that each of us plays a vital role in the holistic growth of the entire body. Our actions, attitudes, and interactions reverberate throughout the body, nurturing a climate conducive to spiritual development. Thus, the bonds we share, the encouragement we offer, and love we extend all contribute to the mutual growth we experience as a

community of believers. As we remain connected and engaged with one another, we contribute to the holistic development of the body, creating an environment where faith flourishes, and God's transformative power is at work 3 3. Mentorship Programs Recognizing the pivotal role mentors have played in my journey of spiritual growth, I am committed to implementing mentorship programs within my ministry. Seasoned individuals who have traversed the path of faith. Each posing a wealth of guidance, wisdom, and a unique capacity for fostering accountability in those who aspire to spiritual development. These mentors will serve as invaluable guides, helping individuals navigate challenges, offering spiritual direction, and setting themselves forth as exemplars of a life Christ centered. 3 Stephen D. Lowe and Mary E. Lowe, Ecologies of Faith in a Digital Age: Spiritual Growth through Online Education (Downer’s Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2018), 131. At the heart of my mentorship program lies a foundational teaching drawn from the wisdom of the Apostle Paul. As he encourages in Romans 12:2 "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

This teaching encapsulates the essence of our mentorship approach. The power of transformation is rooted in the renewal of one's mind and heart. In the writings of Paul, the term "Mind" plays a pivotal role in describing the faculty responsible for thinking, thought processing, and understanding. 4 4 David M. Emanuel, “Thinking,” ed. Douglas Mangum et al., Lexham Theological Wordbook , Lexham Bible Reference Series (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2014).

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The objective is to cultivate “reciprocal interactions” that will enhance the spiritual ecosystem within the Our mentors will guide and inspire individuals to break free from conformity to worldly influences and embrace a journey of profound change. Through the renewal of their minds, participants will be equipped to discern and follow the divine will of God. They will be recognizing what is good, acceptable, and perfect in His sight. In fostering these mentorship programs,

body of Christ. 5 The mentorship relationships will not only provide essential guidance but also facilitate a deeper connection for the mentees with their Savior. In the Bible, the term "heart" often extends beyond its literal meaning as the vital organ. Instead, it predominantly represents the very core of a person's emotions, passions, and thoughts. It symbolizes the central and living essence where one's feelings, intellect, and identity reside. 6 When it comes to facilitating change, it is essential to recognize that only God can change a hardened heart. (See Ezekiel 36:26) It is my firm belief that by renewing minds of those with transformed hearts, we can empower individuals to lead lives aligned with the will of God, pursuing what is good, pleasing, and perfect in His divine plan. 4. Personal Spiritual Practices In addition to communal activities, personal spiritual practices are crucial for individual growth. I will encourage members of my ministry to develop and maintain personal disciplines such as daily prayer. I encourage my ministry members to set aside time each day for Prayer. 5 Stephen D. Lowe and Mary E. Lowe, Ecologies of Faith in a Digital Age: Spiritual Growth through Online Education (Downer’s Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2018), 148. 6 Jonathon Lookadoo, “Body,” ed. Douglas Mangum et al., Lexham Theological Wordbook , Lexham Bible Reference Series (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2014).

vital part in the believer’s life. A daily practice of reading the word and journaling will be an earmark of this ministry. These practices help individuals connect with the Savior on a personal level and deepen their faith. 5. Awareness of Current Times In the ever-changing landscape of our world, it's crucial to have a deep awareness of the times we live in. Meaningful dialogue is essential for bridging the gap between the teachings of scripture and the realities of the world. I will encourage open discussions within our community. It is essential to demonstrate how the timeless wisdom of scripture remains relevant in our contemporary world. Our journey will often take us into the realm of biblical prophecy, where we will delve into the teachings about the end times found in the Bible. Throughout our explorations, we will connect these ancient prophecies to the unfolding tapestry of current global events, paying special attention to the dynamic developments occurring in and around Israel. Whether it's in the morning, before bed, or throughout the day, this practice allows individuals to express gratitude, seek guidance, and find solace in their faith. Members will also be encouraged to set aside time for quiet reflection. This practice can help calm the mind and create space for spiritual insights. The study of Scripture is a

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Conclusion As a seminary student, I am committed to nurturing spiritual growth within my future ministry. Understanding the ecology of human interaction as it applies to spiritual development allows me to create a comprehensive plan of action. By fostering supportive communities, providing mentorship, encouraging personal practices, promoting cultural awareness, I aim to create a vibrant and enriching spiritual environment. Through these efforts, I hope to support individuals in their spiritual journeys, helping them deepen their faith and connection with the divine. Spiritual formation is not a solitary endeavor; it thrives within the interconnected web of human relationships and environments. Additionally To anyone interested in attending a seminary, I want to take a moment to share some insights and advice with you as you consider attending a seminar. This journey is undoubtedly a significant step in your life, and careful preparation is key to making the most of it. Before you embark on this path, it's essential to prepare yourself both mentally and spiritually. Here are some considerations to keep in mind. Clarity of Priorities By promoting an awareness of the times, I aim to build a resilient faith community. Instead of isolating faith from the realities of the world. In my ministry I will show how faith can be a source of strength, guidance, and hope in the face of life's challenges.

Ensure that your priorities are clear in your mind. Seminary will challenge you to critically examine your beliefs and your relationship with God. It's crucial to prioritize your connection with God above all else. Your family should come second in your list of priorities. This foundation will help guide you through your seminary experience. 7 Balancing Life Understand that your time at seminary may require you to allocate less attention to certain aspects of your life compared to before. The demands of theological education can be intense, and finding balance is essential. It is completely expected that you will have trouble juggling studying with balancing the rest of your life. Blend your academic pursuits with your ministry calling. During your studies, be open to the individuals God brings into your life who require your support and guidance. Refrain from actively seeking additional ministry commitments while in seminary and consider praying about reducing some existing ministry responsibilities for the duration of your seminary education. Your main priority at this moment should be achieving excellence in your seminary coursework. 8 Strategic Planning To navigate the challenges effectively, it's helpful to create a comprehensive plan for each term. Develop a master plan that organizes all your class requirements and extracurricular commitments. Additionally, establish a daily routine and weekly schedule. This will enable you to manage your projects, papers, assignments, and other important events outside of school more efficiently. 9 7 H. Daniel Zacharias and Benjamin K. Forrest, Surviving and Thriving in Seminary: An Academic and Spiritual Handbook (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2017), 28. 8 H. Daniel Zacharias and Benjamin K. Forrest, Surviving and Thriving in Seminary: An Academic and Spiritual Handbook (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2017), 101. 9 Ibid., 78.

Conclusion Remember that your journey through seminary is not just about academic learning but also spiritual growth and personal development. Embrace the challenges and opportunities that come your way, and you will emerge from seminary with a deeper understanding of your faith and a stronger sense of purpose. If you ever need guidance, support, or someone to talk to during this journey, please know that I am here for you. I have faith that you will thrive in this endeavor, and I look forward to witnessing your growth and the positive impact you will undoubtedly make in the future. Wishing you all the best as you embark on this meaningful path.

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SPIRITUAL FORMATION BLOG

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