BelongSample

Going First

In a recent study, Italian neuroscientists discovered the human brain experiences social pain in the same regions it does physical pain. No wonder rejection feels like a hot coal to the face!

Your brain may be whispering, “Don’t tell that story. Don’t let them really know you. Don’t get burned.” When it does, remember “belong” is a verb. It’s active, not passive. Sometimes the action you need to take is to say what you’re thinking. How else can you fill the unique space God made for you in this group?

Sometimes this might even mean going first. Wait, aren’t we supposed to put others first? Yes, and you can do that by giving others the gift of going second. Basically, if you have an experience that might help others, good or bad, consider sharing first. Because for everyone else in your group, going second is so much easier. 

Just like with any friendship, this will take time. Don’t feel like you have to jump into the deep end of every conversation right away!

The gift of going second isn’t a new idea. The Bible refers to sharing our failures as confession. Likewise, testimony is the word used for telling others how God has turned your failures into something good. Both words can sound scary, but they really just describe what friends begin to do as they get to know each other. 

As you finish Episode 1 and read today’s Scriptures, answer this question. What life experiences can you start sharing with your group?