The ART of Care and Correction

I can honestly say that I have never been very good at art. So for the author to call care and correction an art, doesn't really surprise me. Some highlights:

5 methods to care for others: 1-Comfort them. 2-Counsel. 3-Encourage them. 4-Help. 5-Correct.

Dealing with conflict is never an easy thing to do, but if we do it right, we will have much more success and less stress. First, evaluate the conflict. Does it involve a sin, or a mere disagreement over personal preference. Stay on the subject, one issue at a time. Bring an attitude of respectful inquiry, not accusations or venting anger.

Confronting sin in other, something that is even more difficult. However, you must confront if you 1) are unable to get the incident out of your mind, 2) are unable to have a normal relationship with the person that has offended you, or 3) believe someone has someting against you. After you determine you need to confront, define the problem. Make sure you define things biblically because it is scritpture that is "God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness." Then, get the log out of your own eye. Now prepare your heart. Your motives are to glorify God, turn your brother or sister from sin, and to reconcile. Now it is time to confront.

Don't forget to confess your own sin when you realize that you have said or done something that may or may not bother someone else, but you feel was wrong.

What Makes a Leader

I don't know about the rest of you, but I found our last lesson very educational. I know I have lots of room to improve, but I appreciate all of the faith you guys have in me and the words of encouragement. In the future, please tell me if I am not living up to the standards of what a homegroup leader should. Also, any words of encouragement would be welcome, words of affirmation is my love language.

Take This Group and Own It!

Although our group rocks, we learned how our group can be more effective as each person takes individual ownership of the group. If you have any ideas as to how I can make it easier for you to feel ownership of the group, please just let me know. Some examples are on page 41 (Question 4) of the study. If you have any ideas of ways you can use more of your spiritual gifts with the group, please let me know that too.

Breakfast for dinner.