We’re in our Book Promotion mini series and today, we’re talking with the author of “The Enneagram for Spiritual Formation”, AJ Sherrill. Hear about spiritual growth and how your Enneagram type can grow deeper in faith.
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AJ Sherrill is a lead pastor and adjunct professor who uses the Enneagram as a tool to help others grow their relationship with Christ. In this interview, we discuss the main points of his book along with other Enneagram details. Use the affiliate link below to get AJ’s book today!
Enneagram, Identity, & Personality
When diving into different personality typing systems it’s vital to keep in mind that your personality result is not you identity. If you’re a believer, your identity is found in Christ. Your Enneagram personality; however, is a lens in which you view the world and a strategy that should be used to grow yourself and others. Remember that your identity is the root system and personality grows out of that.
Our personalities are a combination between nature and nurture that is forged over time. We know through Biblical and scientific research that our brains can change (neuroplasticity) and we can reshape who we are when we choose. Another friendly reminder that the Enneagram is a means and not an end. It’s a tool we can use to grow.
Enneagram, Discipleship, & Scripture
There is more depth to a relationship with Christ besides reading the Bible, going to church, tithing, etc.. Yes, those are all great disciplines to have, but we cannot overlook the relationship aspect of what Christianity encompasses.
There are so many pathways to experiencing the goodness of God. There are “downstream pathways” (the disciplines that come easily to you), and there are “upstream pathways” (the disciplines that do not come easily to you). It’s important to explore these pathways and sharpen your downstream practices while improving your upstream practices.
Enneagram, Evangelism, & Character
Use your personality as a strategy to point others to Christ. The Enneagram is a good neutralizer and common ground that people openly talk about. We can use this as a segue to being vulnerable in a healthy way that shows others there is an ultimate healer.
We know we can use our strengths to grow ourselves and others, and using your weaknesses is a great way to do that too! If you’re struggling with patience, what are some ways you can work on that? If self-control is something you lack, what are practical ways you can actively work on it?
As we enter into deliberate practice (hello, Grit mini series!), we can reshape our brains (hello, Switch on Your Brain mini series!). Use the affiliate link below to grab your copy of AJ’s book today!
Links from the Show
- Level 101: Enneagram Basics Mini Series
- Level 201: Enneagram + Relationships
- Switch On Your Brain Mini Series
- Daring Greatly Mini Series (Shame & Vulnerability)
- Grit Mini Series
- Passions & Giftings Finder (free resource!)
- Enneagram for Spiritual Formation (book affiliate link)
- AJ Sherrill’s Site
- Witty & Gritty Patreon
