Do I think we’re shaped more by our experiences or by who we are?
In hindsight, I’d say both.
Our experiences definitely play a role in shaping who we become—who we interact with, what we hear, what we witness, what others say, etc. Our experiences are part of what make us grow, learn, and move forward in life. It’s what impacts our life choices, how we handle situations, and who or what we trust in.
But who we are can also shape us in many ways. What we do, how we behave, and what we say can leave a lasting impact on others and yourself. What you teach yourself can forever influence you, whether it be good or bad.
Yes, but most importantly, we should be shaped by God. Our circumstances don’t define who we are. Although we should learn from our mistakes, we must not let our situations take over us and change us into people we are not.
Yes, indeed. 😁
It sounds very much like the Nature vs, Nuture argument in biologu. Nture being who we are or become and NAurture being those experiences, learning and thought and the influence of God’s Holy Spirit upon us. PSALM 139 tells us God Knows us from our beginning and ROMANS 8 tells us all things—all of our experiences God uses to shape our characters and spirit into the people He wants us to be, if we respond favorably obediently to Him!