Details for Blog Entry Simple Small Groups 10

simple small groups 10 - Changing: Growth Busters

From the book “Simple Small Groups”, here are two common problems that can sidetrack us from spiritual growth…

1)  Whenever we settle for information rather than seeking transformation.  Having the desire to know ABOUT God is not the same as a passion to KNOW GOD.  Some of us tend to be overly academic with our Bible study or small group discussion times.  It is good and helpful to know more of the Biblical text, but we miss the point of any passage whenever we fail to allow the words to penetrate us (deeply, personally) and change us to become more like Christ.

2)  Whenever pride keeps us from seeking help (or whenever self-consciousness keeps us from being vulnerable).  If we want to grow, writes Search, we have to surrender our pride and humbly ask for advice, guidance, and help.  Growth is stunted whenever we can’t admit we have a problem, or we won’t seek help for something we can’t handle on our own.  It could be anything: addictions, financial struggles, marriage or parenting problems, fears, deep hurts, etc.  And here’s the “funny” thing (which is really rather sad):  Everyone in my small group needs help (for something) just as much as I do, though we may all be sitting there together, pretending everything is okay!  Just imagine what can happen whenever we begin to share, and to ask for help, and allow the Holy Spirit to work among the group to comfort, encourage, teach, and grow!

Next post:  How a group can help us change…

Connected in Him,

Shane Gage