And they’re not just talking about their own thoughts but how the verses themselves actually apply to their lives. Additionally, I’ve appreciated the quality of questions people ask. Sure, at times, we have to circle back around to one that’s off topic but many of them are on topic and very helpful. I’ve been so stretched and encouraged and ministered to by the Spirit of God speaking through God’s people as they are drawn deeper into God’s word. The time in God’s word makes the seasons of awkwardness worth it.
2. Praying together
Admittedly, I have done a poor job as a leader at times of providing enough time to pray well as a group. The result is that most of the prayer requests stay on the surface, and we don’t have the time to get to the heart. Don’t get me wrong: I’m for prayer requests that are for cousins and friends and jobs etc., but I enjoy it even more when prayer gets to ways people can grow personally in light of what God’s word is teaching. Over time, a small group’s prayer life will change significantly. It grows and eventually will become one of the most exciting parts of the time spent together. What was once a little forced becomes a highlight for the group. As we let the scripture we’re discussing guide our prayers, the quality of communion with the Lord becomes the result of time in the word.
3. Transparency
Sin is anti-social. Your flesh would naturally prefer to ward off any relationship that doesn’t already naturally appeal to you. What I find so amazing about small group is that it wages war against that mentality. It calls us to truly be what the Bible calls us family. (see Matthew 12:46-50)
When you give your life to Jesus, you’re not only saved from sin but you’re saved into family. And this kingdom family is there to help you walk in faithful obedience to God and His word. We need each other, and my group is embracing this truth. We don’t try to come off pretty. We don’t wait to share with other people outside of our church family. We seek to create an environment in which the burdens and struggles of life can be openly shared and adequately cared for by our kingdom family. I love my small group and thank God for the mutual encouragement they are to one another and to me.
Through prayer, transparency, and time in God’s word, it is obvious that God is at work in small groups. It may not be noticeable in the short term, but over time you see the fruit of what God is doing. It is not that small groups are a necessity of church life–but it it is true that if you do not have these kind of spiritual relationships in your life, you are missing out on a powerful way that God grows his kingdom family.
This article on why I love my small group originally appeared here, and is used by permission.
