For years we referred to the “spiritual growth
process” as “progressive sanctification.” Spiritual formation is the same idea
but the focus is more on our cooperation with the Spirit of God to become what
we really are in Christ. Our union with Christ means “death” to the sin nature.
Our minds and bodies still have some old habits and patterns that need to be
corrected. Spiritual disciplines are designed not just for personal growth but
so that we can actually take on the character and behavior of Christ.