Life groups are a pivotal aspect of the life of this church. They embody everything Paul taught about the body, how it is joined together by the Holy Spirit and gifted to teach, encourage and hope. It is a place where we can find shelter when life is messy. It is a place where we can find compassion and an opportunity for prayer.
So I want us to just stop for a moment and pray.
Father, we pray for our life groups. We pray for our church. Give us strong bonds like a family. Help us to lift each other up in prayer regularly. Use our life groups to strengthen our knowledge of you and your character, of Christ and his love for us, of the Holy Spirit and the way he empowers us to give, sacrifice and speak the truth we have experienced in our own lives.
Jesus, we cling to you now. Our hearts ache for you. Oh, to be with you! Jesus, while we wait, we ask that you would give us wisdom for those things that are practical hindrances to life groups. Things like child care, money, busy schedules. Then give us the vision to see individuals who are hurting and need a friend. Who need a home. Or who need a place to sit and hear from you. Make us that place.
Lord, take us beyond the walls of our church and home. Use these families to share the gospel in this community and beyond. Use these families and friends to meet needs in the community. Father, make all we do glorious through your perfect understanding and your great love.
All praise to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the source of every mercy and the God who comforts us. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. You can be sure that the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. So when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your benefit and salvation! For when God comforts us, it is so that we, in turn, can be an encouragement to you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. We are confident that as you share in suffering, you will also share God’s comfort.