Practical Ideas for Long-Term Spiritual Growth in a Small Group

[su_quote]How does a leader choose specific topics to study and actions to take in the short-term that will help with long-term growth?[/su_quote]     In the previous post, you will see how a small group leader can help the group participants continue to grow spiritually over the long haul.  Even with a mix of people from different backgrounds, different stages, and different personalities, the leader can help each participant make progress along their spiritual journey. Rather than jumping to the “next best study” every 6-10 weeks, the leader can keep everyone make progress by thinking in terms of continued lifelong…

The Long-Term Goal of a Small Group Leader

[su_quote]Followers of Jesus are designed for long-term growth.[/su_quote] A cast of characters The next time you sit in a small group, take a look around. There is likely a variety of people represented… different backgrounds, different lives, different journeys, different seasons. In order to lead a diverse group follow Jesus and grow spiritually, a small group leader needs to have a long-term perspective. If you have led a small group for any length of time, there comes a point when the newness wears off. Often in an effort to prevent stagnation, the small group leader searches for the next best…

The Rearview Mirror: Perspective, Not Direction.

[su_quote]Your journey is not finished; so don’t waste it staring in the rearview mirror.[/su_quote] I’ve wished a lot of time away. …some of it was missed preoccupied with the future. …some of it was wasted trapped by the past.   The rearview mirror is an important tool.  But in order to drive, you need to keep looking forward – only glance at the rearview mirror as needed.   Chained and Restrained Rearview gazing can be dangerous.  It can stir up all the wrong things, and pull you back like quicksand.  Some people waste months, years, or even a lifetime hopelessly staring…