Spiritual formation is character formation. Everyone gets a spiritual formation. It's like education. Everyone gets an education; it's just a matter of which one you get.

The quote by Dallas Willard emphasizes that spiritual formation and character development are deeply interconnected. Willard suggests that everyone undergoes some form of spiritual formation, much like everyone receives an education. The key point is not whether one is shaped spiritually or morally, but the quality and nature of that formation. Just as education can vary in its content and effectiveness, so too can the formation of character and spirit.

Willard highlights that spiritual and moral growth is an ongoing process, shaped by experiences, teachings, and personal reflection. Like education, it is not simply a matter of exposure but involves active engagement and intentionality. The development of character—including virtues such as integrity, compassion, and wisdom—is cultivated through consistent practice and thoughtful guidance, just as learning requires study and effort.

The origin of this quote comes from Dallas Willard, a philosopher and scholar known for his work on spiritual formation and Christian ethics. Willard often drew parallels between education and spiritual growth, emphasizing that both processes are formative and ongoing, shaping the way individuals think, act, and engage with the world.

In essence, Willard’s quote underscores that spiritual formation is a deliberate cultivation of character. Just as education shapes the mind, spiritual formation shapes the heart and soul, influencing values, choices, and behavior. It reminds us that everyone is influenced in some way, but the outcome depends on the quality and intentionality of the formation received.