The Emergence of Man (Manhood) by Gladson MusondaSample

FORMATION – form /fôrm/
“The action of forming or process of being formed. The configuration of something.”

The Farmer is very intentional in his seed planting. He will ensure that the seed is protected and receives the necessary nutrients for it to germinate and grow into a fruitful tree whatever that might be. The soil not only agitates the seed, but it also contains “in-formation” necessary for it to develop a strong root system. At the formation stage, the seed begins to push its roots first into the depths of the soil to ground itself. Before it appears on the surface, a foundation is established so that it can stand firm against the elements.

Likewise, we too find ourselves surrounded by “in-formation” that shapes our belief system. We build on what we believe. Our belief system is the building block of our foundation.

In order to be the man God created you to be, you must undergo this process of formation by information. This is not a public display of eloquence and intellectual prowess. This formation is done in the secret place where no one can see you. What you tolerate or expose yourself to when you are alone shapes your beliefs and perspectives. And, it’s all found in the environment that once agitated you. Truth, conviction, faith, discipline, identity, and so on, are developed.

My son give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, And health to all their flesh. Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life. Put away from you a deceitful mouth, and put perverse lips far from you. Let your eyes look straight ahead, and your eyelids look right before you. Ponder the path of your feet and let all your ways be established. Do not turn to the right or the left; Remove your foot from evil. Proverbs 4:20-27 (NKJV)

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper. Psalm 1:1-3 (NKJV)

CALL TO ACTION:

1. What information are you exposing yourself to when you are all alone?
2. How has that shaped your perspective on who you are and your purpose?
3. Take time to reframe or renew that information and realign yourself to what the word of God says about you and your purpose.

Again, this is not a place for guilt or condemnation rather it’s a call to RENEWAL.

PRAYER:

Father, I realize that you have called me to live life on purpose and in the moment. I have allowed my mind to wander away from the truth of the word. I have framed my life and perspective based on experience rather than You. I ask that you would by your word separate and reveal that which I need to hold on to and that which I must let go of. I submit myself to the working of your Spirit and to the transformative power of your word in Jesus' Name, Amen.