Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 6
The speaker insists formation is unavoidable (“None of us can stop formation… we possess the power to choose how or who we will be formed into”) and recommends asking “What is my current trajectory?”; what practices, entertainment, relationships, or habits are forming you most right now, and what would it actually take to redirect your trajectory?
Another way to ask: The speaker says you are always being shaped by something, and you can choose the direction. What things are shaping you most right now, and what would you need to change to head in a better direction?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
The transcript teaches that you are being shaped no matter what, but you are responsible to choose what shapes you—so you must examine your “trajectory” and deliberately adopt habits that form you toward God rather than toward the world and personal desires. Redirecting trajectory, in the speaker’s terms, means choosing practices like prayerful acknowledgment of God, Scripture, help from mature believers, and committed church life.
- He states, “None of us can stop formation. However, we do possess the power to choose how or who we will be formed into.”
- He recommends self-examination: “What is my current trajectory? Am I being formed into what God would like me to become, or am I allowing the world and my own desire to override my spiritual development?”
- He stresses responsibility in choosing practices: “Our thoughts and practices and habits form us.”
- He gives practical forming habits: say “good morning to God,” “read your Bible,” seek someone “farther along,” and “go to church… a body of believers.”
- He says simple practices “over time… will shape us into the right sort of person.”