Discussion Questions: 1. When Pastor Eric described the “try-harder loop,” what parts of your own faith journey felt similar, and how might you begin shifting from trying harder to training intentionally? 2. Dallas Willard said, “Faith has failed to transform the character of most people because it is usually unaccompanied by a way of life like Christ himself practiced.” What specific rhythms or habits could help align your daily life more with Jesus’ example? 3. Read Romans 12:2. What would it look like for your mind to be truly renewed in the areas that most shape your thoughts or emotions this week? 4. Pastor Eric said that formation happens over time and through hard seasons. How can you view your current challenges as part of the Spirit’s slow work of transformation? 5. Look at James 1:2-4. How does this passage reshape your view of difficulty when compared with the idea that “the desert is the classroom where our faith grows”?