Spiritual Formation Resource Page

Startup Faith: Imagining a World with More Hope Than Heartache

Rooted in the Book of Acts

Spiritual formation is the ongoing process of being shaped by God into the image of Christ. It’s not about quick fixes or overnight transformation—it’s about daily habits, intentional choices, and the work of the Holy Spirit forming us over time. Startup Faith draws from the early church’s journey in Acts, paralleling it with the process of launching and growing a startup. Like a new venture, faith begins with vision, takes shape through intentional practices, develops through challenges, and ultimately expands to impact others. Whether you’re new to faith or looking to deepen your journey, this series invites you to take the next step.

Formation Practices for Each Stage of Faith

WEEK 1: DREAM – What’s Your Vision for Faith?

Read: Acts 1:1-8; Acts 2:1-4

What to Do: Take 15 minutes to dream about your faith. Write down your biggest hopes for your spiritual life—what would it look like if your faith was bold, alive, and full of purpose?

Why It Matters: Every startup begins with a vision, and faith is no different. The early church started with a small group of disciples who believed Jesus had called them to something greater. That same dream is still unfolding today—through you.

 Reflection Questions:

• If your faith was like a startup, what kind of impact would you want it to make?
• What excites you most about growing in faith?
• Where do you feel resistance or fear about taking the next step?

WEEK 2: DESIGN – How Are You Structuring Your Faith?

Read: Acts 2:42-47; Acts 6:1-7

What to Do: Evaluate your spiritual rhythms. Are you making space for faith in your daily life? Set a simple, realistic goal—whether it’s committing to prayer, reading Scripture, or joining a faith community.

Why It Matters: Just as a startup needs a solid foundation, faith thrives when built with intentional habits. The early church grew by forming strong communities, practicing generosity, and prioritizing prayer. What small step can you take to build a faith that lasts?

� Reflection Questions:

• What spiritual habits do you currently have? Are they intentional or accidental?
• What’s one habit you could introduce (or reintroduce) this week to strengthen your faith?
• How can you invite others into your journey so faith isn’t something you pursue alone?

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WEEK 3: DEVELOP – How Do You Handle Spiritual Setbacks?

Read: Acts 8:1-8; Acts 9:31

What to Do: Think about a time when you felt stuck in your faith. Journal about how you handled it and what you learned. Then, ask God to help you grow through your current season—whether it’s exciting or challenging.

Why It Matters: Faith, like any growing company, faces obstacles. The early church encountered persecution and setbacks, yet they adapted and thrived. Your faith journey will have challenges too, but stagnation isn’t the only option—perseverance leads to growth.

 Reflection Questions:

• Where do you feel stuck or plateaued in your faith?
• What challenge are you facing that might actually be an opportunity for growth?
• How can you trust God in the process of refining and strengthening your faith?

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WEEK 4: DEPLOY – How Is Your Faith Impacting Others?

Read: Acts 13:1-3; Acts 16:6-10

What to Do: Identify one way you can share your faith this week—whether through an encouraging conversation, serving someone in need, or inviting someone into a faith community. Take action and see what happens.

Why It Matters: Faith was never meant to stay contained. The early church didn’t just grow for itself—it spread hope to the world. Your faith isn’t just for you; it’s meant to impact those around you.

Reflection Questions:

• How has someone else’s faith impacted your journey?
• Who in your life might benefit from a conversation about faith?
• What would it look like to live out your faith in a way that naturally influences others?

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Next Steps: Take Action This Week

• Choose one practice from the list above and commit to it.
• Journal your reflections and share with a mentor, friend, or life group.
• Stay open to growth—faith isn’t a one-time decision; it’s an ongoing journey of discovery.

Like any startup, faith takes vision, intentionality, and perseverance. The good news? You’re not doing this alone. God is with you, leading the way.

Recommended Resources for Deepening Your Faith

Books on Spiritual Formation & Growth:

James K.A. Smith – You Are What You Love: The Spiritual Power of Habit
John Mark Comer – Live No Lies: Recognize and Resist the Three Enemies That Sabotage Your Peace
Tim Keller – Making Sense of God: An Invitation to the Skeptical
Rodney Stark – The Rise of Christianity
N.T. Wright – Simply Christian
John Tyson – Beautiful Resistance: The Joy of Conviction in a Culture of Compromise

Podcasts & Online Resources:

The Bible Project Podcast – Deep theological insights in an accessible format.
The Intentional Parents Podcast – Practical wisdom for raising kids in faith.
Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast – Conversations on faith, culture, and personal growth.
Renovaré – Spiritual formation resources and practices.

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