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Small Group Leadership Lessons from Proverbs


A while back I was reading Proverbs 18, and I came away from it thinking, "This is really good advice for anyone who is trying to lead or influence people." Of course, everything in the Bible is really good advice for anyone trying to do anything. So, whether you are a leader or just someone who wants to be more wise (particularly in relationships), here are a few "leadership thoughts" from Proverbs 18 (I think these are also really good for small group leaders). I've included some of the specific proverbs so you can munch on them today:

Everything doesn't rise and fall on you; you are a part of a bigger whole.
  • Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment.
  • A brother offended is more unyielding than a strong city, and quarreling is like the bars of a castle.
  • A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
The most inspiring speeches are meaningless if they aren't preceded by big ears.
  • A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion
  • If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.
  • The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him.
Constantly attempting to attract influential people is a quick fix with devastating results
  • It is not good to be partial to the wicked or to deprive the righteous of justice.
  • The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into the inner parts of the body.

Having said all that, let me close with these three thoughts for small group leaders:
1 -- Don't build your group around yourself. If it can't function in your absence, it isn't healthy!
2 -- Listen more than you speak. You'll build credibility, and your words will carry more weight. More importantly; as you listen, you'll know better what you should say!
3 -- Don't make your group into a country club. Seek the kinds of people Jesus would have sought out. Don't be influenced by the impressive and the flatterers. (Read James 2 if you need more help with this!)

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