Can you feel the excitement building? The books are in… The coffee pot is on standby… The name tags are ready… A new semester of women’s Bible study is about to begin! The success of women’s Bible study depends heavily on the small group leader. Maybe you’ve been asked to lead a group. Maybe you’re […]
3 Steps to Encourage Holy Living
Are the women in your church living holy lives? More than half may not even be trying. According to a survey by The Barna Group, 54% of American Christians either don’t think God wants them to be holy or simply don’t know. This statistic merged with real life a couple of years ago when the […]
The 5M Strategy for Leadership Development
An ongoing Bible study program can be a useful tool for discipling the women of your church. Increase in biblical knowledge, spiritual growth, accountability, and fellowship are just a few of the benefits. But it requires planning and preparation to make it effective. Do you see your church in any of the following scenarios? More […]
9 Tips for Choosing the Right Bible Study Material
I have dealt with Bible study from almost every conceivable angle. I have studied my Bible and used Bible study materials for decades. I have participated in countless Bible study groups. I have led Bible study groups. I have organized women’s Bible study for several churches. And I have written Bible studies. Yet, there is […]
10 Tips for Bible Study Leaders of Seekers and New Christians
Leading a group of “Bible beginners” can be a faith-building experience for the leader. Witnessing God’s activity from a front-row seat is exciting! However, guiding people with little, if any, Bible knowledge or church experience differs significantly from teaching maturing Christians. Before you get started, consider these “dos and don’ts” I’ve learned during years of […]
5 Tips for Setting Goals for Spiritual Growth
As we quickly approach the end of the year, many people begin the process of goal setting. These goals tend to focus on weight loss, organizational or financial goals, but what about your spiritual goals? Below are five goal setting strategies you can begin now to move you toward greater spiritual growth in the coming […]
Conflict: God’s Way!
We don’t know if their trouble began over a serious doctrinal issue or what color napkin to use at the Fall Retreat. Their conflict affected the entire church. Euodia and Syntyche – the two disagreeing women in the church in Philippi – were both Jesus-loving, servant-minded believers, but they struggled to get along with each […]
4 Personalities That Derail Group Discussion
We’ve all been in one… a group discussion “off track.” Challenging personality types can easily derail a productive discussion. Here are four personality types and some practical tips which will help everyone enjoy the conversation. Discussion Hog The Hog has something to say about almost everything and dominates the discussion! If leaders don’t harness the […]
Words of Grace
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29, ESV Whether we initiate a conversation or respond, we should always speak with grace, considering the grace God has given us. Here […]
7 Biblical Steps to Resolving Conflict
Take the initiative to resolve the conflict. (Matthew 5:23-24; 18:15-17) Even if you think you were the one wronged. Talk face-to-face if possible or by phone. Don’t use email or text. Bring a non-biased mediator if she refuses to meet with you alone. Focus on goals bigger than your personal differences. (Eph 4:3, Philippians 3:12-14) […]
