Adults

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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.

Jun
17
F Leader , I Leader , Susan Hill

The Case for Community

By Susan Hill

We all know a lone ranger who prefers time alone to an evening spent with a group of friends.   But the reality is, no matter whether we are an outgoing extrovert or a quiet introvert, we all need biblical community. There is not a single example in Scripture of a spiritual hermit or one who followed Christ alone. God created us to be a part of community.
This is one of the reasons LIFE Groups play such an important role in discipleship. Biblical community is necessary to become the kind of Christ followers God intends for us to be. While there are multiple examples of why we need to be a part of biblical community, here are just a few:

  • We need the accountability and protection that a LIFE Group provides. The enemy is fierce. 1 Peter 5:8 says, “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of suffering.”
  • LIFE Groups provide a place to grow in our understanding of the Word and have fellowship with other believers. This is the precedent set in the New Testament. Acts 2:42 says, “They devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
  • Life can be difficult and when we go through tough seasons, we need to be surrounded by other believers. Galatians 6:2 says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

Those who are disconnected from biblical community are vulnerable. As you think of people God has placed in your sphere of influence, consider those who are unconnected and invite them to your LIFE Group. Encourage your group members to do the same. Everyone needs to be actively engaged in biblical community.
As a LIFE Group leader, you are making an enormous spiritual investment in the body of Christ and in the lives of those you lead. Be encouraged that this commitment is time well spent and your contribution matters a great deal.