Desire. Conviction. Character. Story. Practice. Institution. The Shape of Our Lives digs into how these six factors-often operating beneath our consciousness-profoundly affect our spiritual formation, both as individuals and congregations. As Christians across America grapple with the value and purpose of church, this accessible volume provides a roadmap for exploring what motivates and forms us. The Shape of Our Lives equips readers to look beneath the surface, understanding the forces impacting our formation. The book lays a theological and practical foundation for congregations and communities to be transformed more into the image of Christ. How does a community of people-with their different and sometimes competing values-grow together? How can congregations make room for God's spirit to be at work? The Shape of Our Lives will give you and your Christian community the language to renew these conversations and embark on the journey of congregational formation. "In these times of disillusionment with church, there could not be a more timely book. " --David Fitch, Lindner Chair of Evangelical Theology at Northern Seminary