1. Moving into the Future

2. Giftedness, Vocation, and Character
We all have received spiritual gifts (Romans 12; Ephesians 4; 1 Corinthians 12-14).
We have all received a call, a vocation. For many of us, it is to positions of leadership.
The presenting problem: within the church at large, gifting has sometimes been exercised without a corresponding emphasis on character formation.
A case study: the apostle Peter.

3. The Example of Peter Matthew 14: Peter attempts to walk on water.
Matthew 16: Peter rebukes Jesus.
Matthew 26: Peter promises Jesus he will never betray him.
John 21: Peter is released into ministry.
How would I describe my character?
What are my character strengths and weaknesses?

4. The General Pattern of Transformation
VIM: Vision, Intention, and Means
Vision: imagine all that I might be able to do if I learned French.
Intention: I will learn French.
Means: I must exercise my will to engage certain means to carry out my intention. If I am to learn French, I will need to practice, practice, practice.

5. Vision: The wonder and beauty of a life that is ever more deeply loving God and loving neighbor (John 14:15; John 15:17).
Intention:
Is there a specific character trait I would like to develop over the next 6 months to a year to facilitate the growth of love in my life?
For example, one might set the goal of becoming a more humble person, by the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Or a more kind person.
Or a more generous person.
Or a more patient person.
Or a more attentive person.
Or a more chaste person.

6. Means: What are the means I am going to employ to carry out my intention?
What do I need to learn about humility?
What does the Scripture teach about humility? And its opposite – pride.
What are the great books, ancient and modern, that treat the topic of humility?
Who are models of humility that I know or can come to know and imitate?
What specific spiritual disciplines can I practice that would nourish the development of humility in my life?
The discipline of secrecy. “The flesh whines against service, but screams against unrecognized service” (Richard Foster).