PEOPLE GROW WHEN THEY PRACTICE AND SERVE TOGETHER
PRACTICE
It’s not enough to just teach information—if we want people to truly grow, they must see it and practice it.
Learning becomes life-changing when it’s lived out.
As a leader, be intentional about finding ways for your group to practice what you’re learning together.
Without this, people may gain knowledge but never change behavior.
Some areas you can practice together include:
- Reading and studying the Bible together
- Praying for each other and listening to the prompting of the Holy Spirit
- Sharing your faith with others
- Building friendships intentionally
- Showing hospitality and generosity
Important: Always respect personal boundaries.
(For example, don’t ask people to reveal personal financial information or anything that could cause embarrassment or distrust.)
If you keep these boundaries in mind, you’ll discover creative ways to practice without crossing lines—and your group will learn by doing, not just listening.
SERVE
Serving together creates hands-on discipleship opportunities.
When your group serves side-by-side, it builds unity, humility, and purpose.
Here are some ways to serve together:
- Community: Volunteer at a local charity, shelter, or food pantry.
- Food Drive: Organize a collection for a local food bank or families in need.
- Evangelism: Prepare personal testimonies and serve alongside a street evangelism team.
- Missions Support: Adopt a missionary—send care packages, raise support, and pray consistently.
- Short-Term Missions: Explore short-term mission trip opportunities where your group can serve in another city, state, or country.
- Church Service: Ask your pastor how your group can help—setting up events, preparing crafts for kids’ ministry, cleaning, hosting, and more.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind:
- Frequency:
Decide how often you want your group to serve.
(One-time events are great for beginners. Frequent service can turn your group into an ongoing service team.) - Requirements:
Some volunteer opportunities may require: - Background checks
- Basic training
- Applications or special commitments
Always plan ahead and communicate clearly with your group. - Accessibility:
Choose opportunities that match your group’s availability, physical abilities, and passions so everyone can participate meaningfully.
Serving isn’t just something we do—it shapes who we become.
Discussion Questions
- What types of serving opportunities interest you the most?
- What areas of your faith do you want to practice more regularly?
- How can practicing together strengthen your group?
- How can serving together deepen relationships within your group?