Small groups are a highly effective means of entering the spiritual growth process. There is tremendous value in five to ten individuals getting together weekly as a small group with the specific purpose of growing spiritually and personally. Small groups encourage honesty and openness in all areas of life, and in doing so, they help people connect on many levels. Small groups are also very effective in helping people normalize the failures and difficulties they encounter in life. Often, it is pain and hurt that keep us isolated and disconnected from others. Unfortunately, pain and hurt are a part of everyday life. We need other people around us to give us life-producing feedback—people who encourage us, support us, empathize with us, and share godly wisdom.

As many churches have discovered, the small group setting allows people to not only safely connect with each other, but at the same time deepen their relationship with God. The Bible encourages us to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2), confess our faults to one another (James 5:16), receive wisdom from one another, and administer God’s love and grace to one another (I Peter 4:10, Ephesians 4:16). In a small group, we can begin to live out these biblical commands in a safe and structured environment. The most effective small groups teach individuals

• how to enter the spiritual and emotional growth process,
• how to improve and strengthen all important relationships,
• how to effectively handle real-life challenges and situations using biblical solutions,
• and how to turn to God and His ways as the source of all healing and growth.

The fruit of entering the spiritual growth process can be far greater than anything we may have anticipated. Small groups are beneficial for all of us, no matter our profession or life experience. Join one or start one today, and begin your life-changing journey of spiritual and personal growth!