This past week, I asked my small group the primary reason they wanted to be in a small group. Almost without exception, their primary reason was for the relationships.
Then I asked each one of them to identify "one step" spiritually that they would like to take. Because we know small groups are winning if people take "one step" spiritually during each semester.
I did this experiment partly to prove what I believe -- that the Holy Spirit reveals to each one of us a next step spiritually. No matter where we are at in our path of spiritual growth, we know what the next step is.
I gave them some examples of "one step" spiritually--things like:
- read the Bible 3 times a week
- journal a prayer 1 time a week
- talk to a neighbor about coming to church
- begin to give financially
- help someone with a project where they can give nothing in return
- learn to pray out loud
And sure enough, each person readily identified their "next step." And it was a very spiritually powerful time for each person in our small group. Because one of the first things we need to do to break thought into a new action or habit is to tell someone. When we audibly declare it to someone else, we are more likely to take action.
So I believe that each person in our small group will actually take that step this semester. And at the end of the semester, we will celebrate the spiritual steps taken.
So...what is your next step spiritually? I think the Holy Spirit has already put something in your mind.
And...who will you tell today?
