“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:24-25).
When my husband and I first considered joining a small group a few years ago, I was hesitant. Stepping into a group of people I didn’t know was intimidating. What if we didn’t fit? What if the group dynamics wouldn’t jive? After our first gathering, all of my fears were alleviated. Quite literally, my small group has changed my life for the better.
If you are not part of a small group yet, I encourage you to seriously consider it. Here are a few reasons why saying yes to a small group at Faith can make a positive impact on your life.
1. Prayer. Being in a small group is like having built-in prayer support. If you have a need or prayer request, you can be sure that several people will be praying for you throughout the week. It’s also a great way to expand your own prayer life as you include the cares and concerns of others in your prayers.
2. Being Known. Life can be lonely, and having a small group is a great way to share life with others. Over time, you become known and loved by others. This might feel intimidating at first, but as you spend more time getting to know others in your group, you’ll find yourself naturally opening up and allowing your new friends to really get to know you.
3. Encountering the Love of Jesus. Whether it’s through edifying conversations, receiving prayer, or simply learning more about Jesus through studying Scripture together, you will find yourself continually coming face-to-face with the love of Jesus in a small group setting.
4. Perspective. Like it or not, when people come together, a variety of opinions and ideas come with them. This can be challenging in the best of ways! Listening to others’ viewpoints is an enriching way to expand your perspective on life, God, people and even yourself.
5. Studying Scripture. Each week, you’ll dive deeper into Sunday’s sermon and the accompanying study guide. This is a great way to engage with Scripture and experience the transformative power of God’s Word.
6. Food. Let’s be honest– group gatherings almost always involve good food! Whether it’s potluck dinners or chocolate cookies, yummy things are ahead when you join a small group!
7. Help. I will never forget the day our basement flooded. Within one hour of putting out an SOS, we had dozens of fans on our doorstep and smiling people willing to move wet boxes. Small groups become the hands and feet of Jesus. Whether it’s last-minute babysitting, meals after surgery or extra help during a move, you always have a group of people to rely on when you’re in need.
8. Fellowship & Friendship. We were made for community. Being in a small group is a beautiful way to move more fully into relationships with other people. This can be hard for those of us who have been hurt before in unhealthy communities, but courageously stepping toward other believers is a gift. Small groups can help you find deeper fellowship and friendship with others at Faith.
9. Serving Together. Does it get any better than Rake Day or Parks & Trails Day with friends? Standing beside one another, serving the community in the name of Jesus is a powerful way to build memories and bonds with others.
10. Fun! Small groups aren’t just about deep spiritual conversations…they’re about fun too! I have lost count of the belly laughs, backyard BBQs and fun experiences our small group has had together. If you decide to join a small group at Faith, fun times with good friends await you!
Becky Young is a counselor, spiritual director and writer. She has been a member of Faith Church for four years and serves with Faith’s Photography Team, Writing Team and Care Ministry. Becky enjoys writing about soul care and cultivating a deeper life with God.
Becky was born and raised in Colorado and enjoys spending time with her husband, gardening and exploring God’s creation.