Why John Mark did of Spiritual Formation

Spiritual formation stems from a desire not just for general spiritual growth but often emerges from personal pain and failure. Many individuals, particularly those in ministry, may struggle with their own shortcomings, despite outward appearances of spiritual adherence. The use of personality assessments, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, highlights the diversity of individual starting points and experiences that shape one's spiritual journey. Acknowledging one's natural tendencies, as exemplified by being an INTJ personality type, reveals a vulnerability and awareness of inherent flaws that can hinder authentic connections with loved ones and spiritual fulfillment. This recognition of personal struggles, combined with the insights gained from the addiction community's honesty, sheds light on the often hidden challenges within evangelical culture, where there is a propensity towards superficial hopefulness, masking deeper issues. Additionally, the concept of spiritual bypassing illustrates a tendency among individuals to overlook significant emotional and psychological challenges in favor of a misleadingly optimistic faith, underscoring the need for genuine engagement with one's struggles as essential for true spiritual growth.