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Aug
17
F Leader , Susan Hill , Uncategorized

How Do I Utilize the Transformational LIFE Strategy in my LIFE Group?

By Susan Hill

As a LIFE Group leader, it is not uncommon to be faced with a variety of needs and responsibilities. Leading a thriving biblical community is a privilege and honor, but there are times it can be overwhelming. That’s why utilizing the Transformational LIFE Strategy (TLS) is so beneficial. It gives group members the opportunity to invest in the group, share their gifts in biblical community, and it allows the group leader to delegate responsibility. The TLS addresses the four common functions of any LIFE Group: To Love One Another, Involve Ourselves in Community, Focus on God’s Word, and Engage the World. These four functions address a variety of needs including: pastoral care issues, group hospitality, social events, bible study, and engaging the community in service and evangelism.

So, how does a group leader implement the TLS?

  •  Enlist good leaders.  The first step of enlisting good leadership for your LIFE Group is to really know your group members. When you understand how your group members are gifted and are aware of their strengths, you are ready to enlist them in roles where they will be most effective. For instance, if you know one of your group members is outgoing and hospitable, you might consider him/her as an “I” Leader who will be responsible for greeting and following up with first-time guests and planning social events.
  • Communicate expectations. Each TLS role has a clear job description and guidelines on how to serve well. Be sure to provide your TLS team with this information and encourage them to take advantage of ongoing leadership development opportunities provided by the church discipleship team.  Keep in mind that our church staff is always available to help equip your TLS team with the resources they need to serve well.
  • Continue to lead. Even after you fill your group’s leadership roles, it’s important to stay engaged. This will mean ongoing communication with your TLS team to insure group needs are being met and your LIFE Group is accomplishing its purpose.

As a leader, there is nothing more gratifying than seeing those you lead thriving in their roles. God has equipped all of his people with unique gifts and talents to serve His church. Let’s do our best to make sure those we lead are utilizing their strengths to build Christ’s kingdom.
 
 

Jun
25
L Leader , Susan Hill , Uncategorized

3 Ways to Minister to a Group Member Who Is Hurting

By Susan Hill

In LIFE Groups, there will be times when group members are faced with difficult circumstances. It might be the death of a loved one, a hospitalization or illness, job loss, or a variety of other issues that cause the group member to be in a season of high stress.
During these times, it is especially important to be supported in biblical community. Galatians 6:2 says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
So how does a LIFE Group respond when a group member is in a difficult season?
 

  1. It’s important to reach out to the group member so he or she doesn’t feel alone. A simple phone call goes a long way in ministering to a person in need. In seasons of struggle, it’s common to feel isolated so reaching out is a great first step.
  2. It’s a good idea to see if there is a tangible need your group can provide. Would it be helpful if someone delivered a meal? Does the group member need a ride or help around the house? Would the group member appreciate visitors? It’s beneficial to access the situation and then decide how the group can minister most effectively.
  3. Be sure to cover the group member in prayer. In times of distress, it is important for the group member to know that their friends in biblical community are praying. Consider sending a card, text, email, or giving them a call to let them know you are praying.

 
In a LIFE Group community, it’s essential that we love each other well. For the group to run smoothly and to be sure everyone’s needs are met, it’s best to delegate these types of needs to an “L” Leader. The “L” function of the LIFE Group represents “Loving One Another” and it’s an important aspect of all good LIFE Groups. No one likes to go through seasons of distress but, when the body of Christ responds in a loving way, these times are more bearable and can even be seasons of spiritual growth.