Continuous renewal of the inner, spiritual self is understood as a process in which the inner world, nourished by gracious influences, undergoes constant cleansing and an increase in spiritual qualities.

Renewing the Inner Self: How Trials Forge Spiritual Strength

Continuous renewal of the inner, spiritual self is understood as a process in which the inner world, nourished by gracious influences, undergoes constant cleansing and an increase in spiritual qualities. In the citation from source link txt, it is stated that when "the outer man is withering" – in other words, when confronted with life's trials, deprivations, and sorrows – his inner world, on the contrary, is renewed every day. This renewal occurs "by faith, hope, and fervor," with trials and sufferings acting as a kind of "fire" in which the soul is purified and becomes akin to gold that has been refined in fire. Such a process of renewal contributes to the development of spiritual qualities through the strengthening of faith, the awakening of a reverent fear of God, the enlightenment of conscience, and detachment from worldly attachments.

Thus, continuous renewal of the inner world is not a passive state but the result of active spiritual growth, where external suffering serves as a stimulus for spiritual advancement, provided that grace, faith, and a life of faith are present.

Supporting citation(s):
"All these manifestations of the spirit, under the influence of grace, begin at the very moment of being born into a new life; but they also grow and strengthen gradually, not only from the more abundant influences of grace but also significantly from the external conditions of a person. ... their significance and effect are one: they contribute to the renewal of the inner self, nurturing in the soul a fear of God, enlightening the conscience, and detaching it from all that is material, from every earthly attachment." (source: link txt)