Dallas Willard on Using the Body for Spiritual Formation

Dallas Willard had a way of making spiritual growth practical and holistic. He didn't shy away from the hard stuff, including how our bodies play a crucial role in our journey toward Christlikeness. While many conversations around spiritual formation focus on the mind and soul, Willard made it clear: the body is not just along for the ride—it’s a vital part of the process.

Training the Body in the Spiritual Life

One of the key takeaways from Willard’s teaching is that our bodies can be trained for godliness, much like athletes train for a race. This isn’t about punishing ourselves or rigid discipline for its own sake. Instead, it’s about aligning our physical lives with the realities of God’s Kingdom.

Take fasting, for example. Willard explained that fasting isn’t just about skipping meals—it’s about learning to live by God’s power and provision. Matthew 4:4 says, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Fasting is a way to train our bodies to rely on something greater than physical sustenance.

In 1 Corinthians 9:27, the Apostle Paul writes, “I discipline my body and keep it under control.” Willard reminds us that this discipline is not about punishment but freedom. As we engage in spiritual disciplines like fasting or solitude, we teach our bodies to follow the Spirit's lead. We begin to see our bodies as partners in God’s transforming work.

Reflect: How do you currently view your body in your spiritual life? Are there ways you can train your body to align more with God’s will?

How Habits Shape Our Holiness

Willard often emphasized the power of habits. Whether we realize it or not, our daily actions shape us more than we think. The things we do repeatedly, even the small stuff, can form our character in profound ways.

Daily Habits: Laying a Foundation for Holiness

Spiritual habits like serving others or worshiping regularly allow both our bodies and minds to align with God’s purposes. Willard spoke of this as training the body to instinctively respond to God. It’s like laying a foundation for holiness, one brick at a time.

Jesus modeled this perfectly for us. Think about His life—not just the miracles, but the simple, physical ways He engaged with others. He fasted (Luke 4:1-2), He prayed (Mark 1:35), He ate with sinners (Luke 5:29-32). Jesus didn’t ignore His body; He used it as part of His ministry. In the same way, our bodies become more like Christ’s when we practice these disciplines.

Reflect: What spiritual habits could you start or strengthen to help form your character in Christ?

Your Body: A Sacred Temple of the Holy Spirit

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 tells us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit: "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body."

This means that our bodies aren’t just physical shells. They are holy vessels where God’s Spirit dwells. Caring for our bodies is an act of worship. It’s not just about staying healthy, but about honoring God with what He has entrusted to us.

In a world that either idolizes or disregards the body, Willard’s perspective offers a better way: We are invited to view the body as sacred and valuable, something to be offered to God in love, service, and care.

Reflect: In what ways can you honor God with your body?

How Suffering and Weakness Shape Us

Suffering is something none of us like to talk about, but Willard saw its value in spiritual formation. Pain, illness, or even unwanted desires can shape us into people who are more deeply dependent on God.

Unwanted Sexual Attraction and Gender Dysphoria: A Path to Christ

For those grappling with unwanted sexual attraction or gender dysphoria, the toll this takes can be overwhelming. It can feel isolating and deeply personal. But Willard reminds us that Christ understands our suffering intimately. Hebrews 4:15 tells us: "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin." Jesus walks with us in our suffering, even in struggles that involve our sense of identity and desire.

Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 12:9 are also a source of comfort: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Your struggles—even with identity—can become places where God’s power is made evident.

Finding Identity in Christ, Not Lesser Things

Spiritual formation, at its core, helps us recognize that our truest identity is found in Christ, not in lesser identities such as sexuality, gender, or any other personal struggle. Willard often emphasized that the journey of formation encourages us to root our identity in Christ's redemptive work, rather than focusing on what the world or our own feelings may dictate. Galatians 2:20 speaks to this transformation: "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me." As we grow in spiritual formation, we learn that it is Christ who ultimately redeems and transforms us, through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Spiritual formation draws us away from the temptation to define ourselves by temporary or surface-level identities and invites us into the eternal reality of being God’s beloved. Through this process, our identity becomes anchored in who we are in Christ. This does not dismiss the real struggles we face, but it reorients our focus toward the One who can transform us at the deepest level.

God isn’t abandoning us in suffering; He’s using it as an opportunity to shape us into the likeness of Christ. Willard would say that this is not about “fixing” ourselves, but about surrendering our struggles to Christ, who redeems us and draws us closer to Him.

Reflect: What struggles are you facing that could be an invitation to deeper dependence on God?

Rest: A Spiritual Discipline for the Body

Sabbath Rest as an Act of Trust

Rest is a spiritual discipline, though many of us often overlook it. Willard reframed rest as an act of trust. Taking time to rest, whether through sleep, Sabbath, or retreat, is a way to remember that we are not in control—God is.

Psalm 46:10 says, "Be still, and know that I am God." When we rest, we remember that it is God who sustains us. Willard believed that rest wasn’t just about physical recovery; it was about surrender. Rest allows our bodies and minds to recognize God’s provision and sufficiency.

Reflect: How can you incorporate rest as a regular practice of trust in your life?

The Hope of Resurrection: The Future of the Body

Willard also pointed us to the future hope we have in Christ. While our spiritual formation happens in our current, imperfect bodies, we look forward to the day when our bodies will be fully redeemed.

1 Corinthians 15:42-44 reminds us, "So it is with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable." Our present struggles, including those with the body, are preparing us for the ultimate redemption when we will be made whole in Christ.

This hope gives meaning to how we live now. The way we use our bodies today reflects the Kingdom to come, and spiritual formation is part of preparing us for that future glory.

Conclusion: Where Are You Placing Your Identity?

Dallas Willard’s teachings on the body challenge us to see every part of ourselves—mind, soul, and body—as integral to our spiritual growth. The body isn’t a hindrance to becoming more like Christ. Instead, it’s a tool for training, service, rest, and even suffering.

Ultimately, spiritual formation invites us to find our identity in Christ. Whether you are dealing with physical struggles, identity issues, or even just the daily grind, remember that God is working in and through your body. He’s redeeming every part of you through His Spirit, shaping you into the person you were created to be.

Encouragement: Take heart in your journey. Jesus sees you, loves you, and is with you every step of the way.

Ready to Grow?

How has spiritual formation shaped your life? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below. If you’re exploring how to anchor your identity in Christ, check out our resources on discipleship and personal growth. Don’t forget to subscribe for more reflections on spiritual formation and stay connected for future posts on living a Christ-centered life. Let’s walk this journey together—spread the word by sharing this post with others seeking to deepen their faith!

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