Are You in Need of a Relational "Tune Up?"

In order for our cars to optimally perform for the duration of their design, we need to periodically give them a tune up.  For many of us who began our group in the fall, we have arrived at the mid point of the year.  Just like our car, our group may be ready for a "tune up."

Among the many ways you could "tune up" your group, there is one you cannot ignore. Relationships are very important to the depth of disciple making that occurs in Journey Groups.  Our lives are extremely busy and full, yet we need to encourage the kind of relationships that help foster spiritual growth and transformation.  Advancements in technology encourage many of our relationships to be based on 140 characters or less.  It is much easier to invest in shallow relationships than in deeper ones.

Take the three question assessment to see if you are in need of a relational tune up this year:

How easy is it for you to name (first and last) every member in your group without looking at a list?

If you struggle, this is the place to begin.  Make it your goal immediately to memorize their names and facts about them.   You don't want to be the one who spends nine months in a group and not know everyone's name.

Okay, a little more challenging one.

Do you spend time with each other outside your group time?  When was the last time you did something "fun" with someone from your group?

It is okay to hang out every once in a while with a person from your group.  Obviously, it best for guys to do something with guys and gals with gals.  But if the only time we spend with each other is in your group time, you miss out on developing the kind of relationships that involve the mutual exchange of knowledge, kindness, service and celebration.

Lastly, what do you talk about when you are with each other?  Is it all about news, weather and sports?

The single best tool for helping move relationships beyond a superficial level is the asking of carefully thought-out questions and receiving honest, sincere answers.  Here are some examples of the type of questions a RISKS taking follower of Jesus would ask.  Give them a try next time you hang out with somebody you know by name from your group.

R - RELIES ON GOD
Where are you in your spiritual journey?
What are you talking to God about lately?
Who in your life are you close enough to that you can share your spiritual questions with?  (Be honest with - no ambiguity)

I - INITIATES INTEREST
How do you move intentionally towards spiritual conversations?
How are you praying specifically for non-believers?
When is the last time you had a non-believer in your home?

S - SERVES PEOPLE
How do you see yourself using your spiritual gifts?
What area of service do you feel pulled towards?
Where are you currently serving?  Do you sense that is a good fit for you?

K - KINGDOM INVESTOR
If time and money were not an issue what would you do?
Do you think investment of finances or time is the most difficult?
How do you think you can leverage your talents for God's Kingdom?

S- SHAPED INTO CHRIST-LIKENESS
How is your life reflective of how Jesus lived out his life?
What does being shaped by Christ look like?
How are you living out your faith with others?

Labels: Bible study, discipleship, Journey Groups, small groups