God, what is life?
Life is my gift of love to you!

How have I been created?
In My image; that is, in My likeness of love.

Why have you created me? What is my purpose?
Because I love you. Your purpose is to be in relationship with Me and with others.

What does it mean to be in relationship with You and others?
To love Me and to serve others.

How do I love You and serve others?
Through obedience to My calling.

What is Your calling?
To be who I have created you to be, and to do what I have gifted you to do. This is the secret of happiness and fulfillment.

How do I respond to Your calling?
By giving yourself fully to Me...your heart, mind, actions, and will.

How do I do that in daily living?
By learning about me and by focusing on others rather than on yourself.

What do I need to do now to do that?
Spend time with Me daily and discover and use the gifts I have given you to meet the needs of others.

How can I learn about my gifts and ways to be with you?
Talk with my followers. They will help you. And, know that I am with you.

Thanks, God! Now, I know what it means to be more like Christ.
You're welcome, My friend!

Spiritual Formation...
the process of becoming more like Christ
for the sake of self and others.

Written by Rev. Marty C. Canaday
Minister of Christian Formation
Oakland Baptist Church, Rock Hill, SC
...that we may be more fully God's!