small group discussions

Our small group was formed after the 40-day Purpose Driven Life Campaign. Some original members are now gone and new ones joined from a group that was dissolved. They have their own reasons for doing so and i respect that whatever those are. Three other members are now in the U.S.A either to work, study or to settle but can manage to keep in touch. Normally, small groups are given handouts or materials by the church. We tried using them for they are really useful and helpful in any Christian growth but as the facilitator (or leader, as they call us), i can sense the members' lack of enthusiasm maybe because they can't relate to some points or merely uninteresting for them. However, the desire to meet up as a group is still there and it made me realize that we just need to come up with a topic that we could all relate with. And what topic would be more relevant than our present situations? It's kind of tough for i really don't know what kind of situation or present state each member is in at the moment. SO, everytime, a meeting is set, I would ask God to help me be sensitive to the members' needs and just allow Him to lead me to the message or question that would trigger us all and stir our hearts to really share and participate in the discussions. Amazingly, (as He always is) as late as the day before the meeting would He only reveal to me what He has for us. Of course, He is actually never late. As a human i just think things are getting late because i still have to prepare and learn ahead of the group for i don't want to mislead them. But all those thinking become futile when God told me that's it is all about Him, and that i must not worry as to how it will go about. I'm a mere facilitator and He is the Leader. A lot of times, it seems like we'll end up meeting with nothing to discuss or talk about because i'm still waiting on God's leading. Waiting for Him to lead me to where He wants us be. When He begins to show His awesome revelation(s), even though it makes me wonder or ask why should this be, i am hopeful, expectant and excited as to how the members would respond because i, myself is really all stirred up for the discussion. I am the one who gets most surprised everytime i see each member really pouring out his/her heart to share ; how the question posed to be answered really matter to them at the exact time; and how especially so the bible verses corresponding to the topic or question suffice and accurately, satisfyingly leave us all WONDERFULLY AMAZED!...:)

The following are subjects discussed during small group meetings. Sorry, i wasn't able to compile all. The members prod me to file these in my blog for whatever purpose they may seem fit. Short gists on how the discussion went follow:

May 1,2008

WHAT IS MORE VALUABLE TO YOU, A PROMISE FULFILLED? OR YOUR WORKS APPRECIATED?

-It is interesting to know that one of the members was waiting for a promise of salary raise and/or hoping her works would be appreciated because she devotes her time and so much of herself to the job. Each one shared own dilemma and went home hopeful if not relieved of heaviness in the heart.

May 24

SHARE ONE (OR MORE) OF GOD'S PROMISE(S) MADE REAL IN YOUR LIFE RECENTLY

-the promise being the reward for remaining patient, honest and persevering just because one trusts the Promise Giver and Fulfiller. TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

Hebrews10:23,35&36, 11:39
1Peter2:15

May 31

ARE YOU WILLING TO SHARE OTHERS WHAT YOU DEARLY POSSESS?

Romans1:16&17, 10:14&15
1Peter3:15

ARE YOU A LABORER OR A BELIEVER?
DO YOU WORK BECAUSE YOU BELIEVE? OR DO YOU BELIEVE BECAUSE YOU WORK?

Romans4:4&5
Mark4:26-29
Luke16:13

We do not earn God's favor by our labor. It is a gift from God and received by us by grace through faith. When we believe like Abraham, we are considered righteous.

Challenge: PLANT A SEED TODAY

Matthew9:37
We are mere workers who must believe

1Timothy4:12
Shine on for Christ

Warning: The Parable of The Sower

Luke8:12-15

Hope:

1Corinthians15:58
Galatians6:9