One of the best things that happened to me as a young teenager growing up in the church was getting a small group leader. One of the most unfortunate things that happened to me growing up in the church was losing that small group leader and getting a new one the next year, and then another new one the following year.

Not intentionally I’m sure, but we were a tough group of guys. We goofed off, wanted to have fun, couldn’t sit still and it was a miracle if we actually read through a Bible passage together in small group. Whether it was the leaders schedule, or we were just a tough group of guys, we didn’t have a continued connection with the same leader throughout our high school years.

If there is one thing you can always help cast vision for in your ministry, it’s COMMITMENT.

Not because the leaders have to be there every Sunday, but they understand it’s a privilege and they want to be there! Trust is built over time, leaders wonder why small group stays surface level or they don’t see fruit from their labor. Commitment is made over time, week after week, year after year.

I currently have every leader that wants to volunteer in our ministry sign a one-year commitment. I know of some churches that ask for 3 year commitments! It’s just part of their culture, I’m so grateful for this kind of mentality. The best small group leader is a committed one, they show up and keep showing up for their group.

What kind of commitment do you get from your leaders?