Shaping Influences 01

Understanding motivations and shaping influences is absolutely essential because we want to discern why we do what we do. According to Paul in Ephesians 4:22, we are to put off our former manner of life. This means that significant events in our past have deeply impacted us. Many of you can recall tragic or horrific events that have left lasting impressions and continue to motivate you today. Additionally, there are countless small, daily occurrences that, though imperceptible, shape and influence us. The passive residual effect of life happening to us can create patterns that motivate our responses.

We must actively think about these influences without becoming paranoid or fearful, recognizing that merely living in this world shapes us. Another significant shaping influence is our response to both major and minor events, which can become habitual and automatic. Instead of passively going through life, we should engage it actively. Surrounding ourselves with good companions is crucial—companions such as the Bible, prayer, and trusted friends who can provide insight and help us identify triggers and patterns in our lives. This helps us avoid being passively managed by the events and habits that have shaped us.

All of these factors have created our former manner of life. However, when we come to Christ, we can begin to renew our minds actively, changing our motivations and shaping influences to align with what Paul describes in Ephesians 4:24—Christlikeness, true righteousness, and true holiness.