Lead Like Jesus: Principles For Small Group LeadersSample

CREATE A SAFE PLACE (and clarify their faith as they grow)

The disciples knew they were safe with Jesus. Their accomplishments and secrets, their doubts and shames, were safe with Him. He knew how to manage their differences, and He knew how to manage their tensions. And it wasn’t at the expense of His mission. He wanted them to live fuller lives, but He offered them a place of safety before they cared about what He had to offer! And the safety He provided was the perfect training ground for them to learn how to do the same for others. He offered them something that the rest of the world hadn’t—a place of safety where they could learn, ask questions, and grow without fear or shame. It’s the same place of safety that you’ve found in Jesus too.

How you deal with questions, doubts, and struggles will teach your kids or students that they can depend on you for discretion, honesty, and acceptance—even when these situations might produce tension. Jesus didn’t shy away from tension, and neither should you. It doesn’t always feel good in the moment, but in that way, tension is a good thing. It provides you with a platform to model the love of Jesus. It gives your few opportunities to learn that you can be trusted. And earning their trust is important because before someone can open up to advice or instruction, they have to first know you care about them. God offers us a place of safety in Him, and it isn’t just for our benefit. It’s so that, in turn, we can offer that same safety to others—to our kids and students—who desperately need to know they are loved by God and by other people.

Questions:

What are things you’ve been able to trust God with that ensure your sense of safety in Him? What doubts and questions have you been able to trust Him with?

How can you create a safe space for your few to express doubts and questions? How can you help them navigate those doubts and questions and lead to growth?