How Groups are the Key to Growth in the Family
By Zack DeBerry
I used to have grand dreams of what my family was going to look like and be like, then my wife and I started having kids. How things changed to my plan for the “Perfect Family”. Now 3 kids later, there are times when I feel like I need a do over.
It’s in these moments that I become grateful for a group of people that God has brought into my life. They are my life group, and I am grateful for the times we get to gather and eat, laugh, study, pray and play. These moments offer a breath of fresh air in my life.
Here are 3 things that my life group does to encourage me and keep me growing.
1. I’m Not the Only One
Let’s face it, being a spouse and parent is tough work. It’s easy to compare ourselves to others and feel like we are totally blowing it. When I get to gather with my group, I am always affirmed in what I am doing and left feeling like my family is more normal than I think. It’s always affirming and encouraging to know that my struggles are usually shared by others.
2. Share the Load
Another great thing about my life group is that there are moments in my life when my family just needs a helping hand. My group has helped us in many ways- from chores to cooking or just babysitting for each other. For my family, that helps immensely. It is always nice to know that there is a group of people in your life that not only want you to be successful, but will step in and help make a way for that success to become reality. There is Incredible value in having people around you that will step up and help your family out any way necessary.
3. A Place to Share Struggles
Sometimes, real struggles can hit our family life. In these times, there is nothing more important than a group of people that you know will gather around you in prayer and support, not judgement. That is what a life group gives you- a place to confess and be comforted buy others. One of the biggest advantages of being in a life group is the strength that comes from being equipped through Bible study and being encouraged through prayers and support. Simply put, family life can be better when you are surrounded by people you can trust and care for you.
Family life is tough, but when you have people around you that are encouraging, step up to help when needed, and will pray you through the struggles, it makes it much easier. That’s what you get in a life group. Or at least it could or should be. If you have yet to experience this in your family, I would encourage you to take a step toward this kind of community. It really is the key to growth in your personal and family life.