The small group summer semester officially kicked off last week. As a leader, I’m always filled with hope and anticipation, waiting expectantly for whatever God has in store for my group. Will I see familiar faces again, or will I be blessed with women who are joining small group for the first time?
My hope is that He sends women to my group who want a safe place to fellowship, pray and to study His word side by side with other women in true friendship; and that group is a place where they feel encouraged, so that by the end of the day they leave knowing that the Lord loves and cares for them.
When I say true friendship, I mean those friends who grow close to you like family and know you better than you know yourself. They pray big prayers for you, even when you can’t pray for yourself, and they believe for you even when you can’t believe for yourself. True friends hold you accountable and encourage you to obey God.
A safe place where you can meet and develop true friendship isn’t always easy to find. You have to step out in faith and risk allowing yourself to be “seen and heard”, even in your weakness. In time, true friendship will grow. You’ll begin to get out of small group whatever you put into it.
I’ve been fortunate to find true friends throughout my small group journey right here at the Vineyard. Women whose friendship I will always cherish because of the goodness they have sown in my life and for allowing me to sow into theirs.
Now…if you haven’t joined a small group, why not give it a try.
“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” – 2 Corinthians 9:6
Until next time…
Love, peace and taco grease!
~Trish
Trish—I know people will find a safe place with you! And your blog is so encouraging. Sweet, sweet girl.
I agree! You always seem to be inclusive. Inspiring!