Want to know God better? Want to really know He’s with you? Want to truly experience God just like you would a spouse or best friend? Want to have a real as real gets relationship with God? Do you want to see God active and at work all around you everyday? Well, we can’t “promise” all this, but here are some things that can help you on the journey of a lifetime that can help get you there.We call this a “toolbox” because a toolbox contains tools that help you accomplish something. For different aspects of a project, you need different tools. Some tools you use all the time (like a screw driver or hammer) while other tools only rarely (like a chisel). You use what works best at the moment, put it back when you are done and get what you need next. That’s what this Spiritual Formation Toolbox is all about.

What is the “project” for which we need spiritual tools? Connect with God! That is our every day and every moment desire, focus, passion and task. Spiritual Formation (defined next in more detail) is the way we go about connecting with God, experiencing God, knowing God and living in such a way that God forms our lives to be like Jesus.

Our toolbox has many different ways and ideas on how to connect with God. These are NOT the only ways (tools) to connect and if you have or find other ways or tools, please share them with us. Some will NEVER work for you and don’t sweat it. Some tools just are not what you need now. Some you need now, but you’ll have to be disciplined and learn to use a particular tool. Some ways or tools are favorites you’ll use often and some you’ll use once a week or once a year! The point is this – this is just a resource to help you think about, find and use the many ways to experience God.

Tips on How to Use this Toolbox

  • NEVER allow the tool box or any tool to become a law or rule you have to do or follow to gain God’s acceptance. If these things become religious activities they can actually keep you from connecting to God. God wants an authentic and intimate friendship with us.
  • The best relationships require some level of discipline. Learning to use a new tool requires discipline too. We just can’t escape that part. But discipline doesn’t have to be drudgery. Find a way to make the “project” of connecting with God enjoyable and fun.
  • Some of these tools are new practices and might feel a little strange to you. Try them. You might be surprised.
  • For many personalities “Variety is the spice of life!” Vary the tools you use to connect with God.
  • The toolbox should lead us more and more to a life where we “naturally” see are aware of, experience and know God in our daily life. The focus is NOT on the tools or the toolbox, but God.
  • The toolbox has several “compartments.” Some sections contain explanations of “how to” do something. There are suggestions of patterns or practices. We’ve also included some resources that include web sites, music and audio resources, books and videos. Some of these are best used in your life group or family.
  • Check back as we’ll keep updating this toolbox.