Dear Small Group Leaders,
As we step into August and in preparation for our upcoming semester, our focus this month turns to the crucial role of teamwork in leadership. This month's topic, "Building a Strong Team," draws inspiration from the example of Nehemiah and the Israelites rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. Leadership of any kind (including Small Groups) can often feel overwhelming, but even the greatest leaders in the Bible understood the necessity of fostering a collaborative environment and encouraging their teams.
In Nehemiah 3, we see a detailed account of how Nehemiah organized the people to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. Each family and group took responsibility for repairing a specific section of the wall, working side by side. Nehemiah 4:13-23 further emphasizes the importance of teamwork as the people worked with one hand and held a weapon with the other, staying vigilant against potential threats. Nehemiah's leadership and the people's willingness to work together made the seemingly impossible task of rebuilding the wall a reality. This story illustrates the importance of unity, shared responsibility, and perseverance in achieving a common goal.
3 Lessons for Building a Strong Team
Nehemiah's approach to leadership highlights three key elements of building a strong team through encouragement that you too can follow. First, he inspired confidence and determination in the people, motivating them to work despite the challenges. Second, he fostered a sense of community and shared purpose, which united the people in their efforts. Third, he recognized and celebrated the contributions of each group, which boosted morale and commitment.
Inspire Confidence: Throughout this semester, encourage your group members by recognizing their strengths and expressing faith in their abilities. Your confidence in them can motivate them to strive for excellence, overcome obstacles and encourage their faith. The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." YOU have within you the ability to change someone’s perception and day!
Foster Community: Create an environment, within your group, where everyone feels valued and connected. Promote a sense of belonging and shared purpose, reminding your team that they are working together towards a common goal. David wrote in Psalm 133:1, "How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!"
Celebrate Contributions: During your small group session, acknowledge and celebrate the efforts and achievements of those in your group. Showing appreciation boosts morale and reinforces the value of each person's contribution to the team. Tip: Take 5-10 minutes each meeting to celebrate the wins in your group.
As you prepare to lead your small groups this upcoming semester, remember that effective teamwork is a reflection of the body of Christ working together in unity. Just as Nehemiah was able to accomplish more by building a strong team through encouragement and support, you too can achieve greater impact by fostering an environment of faith and connectivity.
Blessings,
Pastors Kurtis and Daisy Allen