The Hot Seat

As last weekend was about stories of people surrendering to Christ, and this weekend's message theme has to do with getting to know Jonathan and Steve, you may find that a time of story telling is in order. If you haven't done so yet or recently, consider giving people a few minutes to detail how they came to the decisions they've come to regarding faith. Where were they when they first decided for themselves, what were they up against, etc.? Obviously, you'll want to use discernment in doing this, as some people may not feel like they have a story to detail, having never surrendered to Christ (note that this doesn't actually mean they have nothing to share; they may very well be able to say " X moment was when I decided that I didn't want to follow Jesus"...so use wisdom in figuring out whether it's a healthy thing in your group to allow a non-Christian to share why they don't follow...no one should feel judged or excluded.). Allow people some time to discuss what their catalysts were, how that shapes their view of God and their faith and the path that they are on, etc.

Additionally, you may find it a good idea (humbling as it can be if you've been meeting for a while) to go around the room and discuss what people do for a living. So often (most often?), we get so far down the path that it feels strange to not know each other's careers, so we just settle for vague awareness. Don't be too proud to have a refresher conversation about what your LifeGroup friends do all week!

Lastly, you may find it beneficial to have a discussion about what is on the horizon for each of the members of your group. What are the quiet (secret) hopes and dreams of your brothers and sisters that they need to air? What are they wishing God will put together by the end of the year and they haven't really said anything? Giving your group space to voice some of this is a great way to find out the most sincere and relevant ways to pray for each other. Nothing should be seen as too big or too small to throw into the mix as a hope; vocational stuff, family, education, invention, personal goals, health or overall faith. Make sure that you invite your group to share these sorts of things and try and take notes ( or assign someone to note-taker) so that you can come back to these things from time to time and ask for a status report and new ways to pray.

Thanks for leading your group well and for always looking for ways to create an environment that challenges, encourages and seeks to know and be known.

Peace,

Steve