Check out Brother Whit's Blog. . .

  WHY do you participate in our Life Group ministry? Or perhaps the better question would be, “Why have you chosen not to participate?” Believe me, church, I don’t mean to heap any more guilt on any of us (we have enough of that) but I have wondered why only about ½ of the church family has chosen to be involved in our Life Group ministry. As I’ve asked the question to those who are not involved, I frequently hear these words:

  - I’m too busy

  - I feel uncomfortable in a small, intimate group

  - I like the old-fashion Sunday night worship service

  - I don’t need it

  FOR what it’s worth, I understand your reluctance. Why? Because I’m also busy … and somewhat of an introvert … and a fan of the congregational evening service! But that’s where the comparison ends because, unlike some, I need a Life Group.

  I need healthy, long-term, intimate relationships. I need to be a part of a network of good friends that help provide me with strength, confidence, and joy. I need to see God’s handiwork through the lives of others and hear how the Lord has miraculously changed their lives. I need to know that I’m not the only one struggling with life’s issues – family, faith, finances. It’s not a “misery loves company” as much as a “faith bolsters faith” or “iron sharpens iron.” I want to hear how God has intervened in your life and “turned your mourning into gladness and your sorrow into joy.”

  THAT’S why I’m involved in my Life Group. That’s why I’ll continue to be involved in my Life Group in 2009 after stepping down from the full-time pulpit. Perhaps you’ll join me.

- Brother Whit