Why a Covenant Group by Lynn Mote

John Wesley wrote a letter to one of his itinerant preachers saying this, “O begin!  Fix some part of every day for private exercises…whether you like it or no, read and pray daily.  It is for your life; there is no other way; else you will be a trifler all your days.”  How is that for an invitation to the devotional life?  Read and pray daily, whether you like it or not!  

Actually, John Wesley was very honest about what it takes to grow in our faith and to live a life of discipleship.  There are times we find it difficult to focus on our spiritual growth.  It is easy to put it off or to make a promise to do better later, like starting a diet or new exercise program.  
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This is just one reason covenant groups are so vital to our growth as followers of Christ.  We need each other!  In fact, God works most powerfully in our lives when we are in community with each other.  Covenant groups provide an opportunity to study together; to learn from each other; to share struggles, doubts, and questions; to pray together; and to hold each other accountable to attend the daily spiritual disciplines – whether we want to or not!

I have participated in several covenant groups and have found them to be extremely beneficial!  When I had a prayer need, I had people who would pray and keep my prayer needs confidential.  When I was tempted to push my scripture study aside I knew I needed to be prepared to share in discussion with my group.  Above all, some of the deepest friendships I have known emerged from these groups.

This fall our church is offering a number of opportunities for folks to become a part of this divine experience of covenant. We will begin a church-wide study of The Gospel of John, written by New Testament scholar Dr. Ben Witherington.  If you sense something missing in your life, perhaps this is just the thing.  In closing, I’d like to share lyrics to a gospel song by Hezekiah Walker…

I need you!  You need me!  We’re all a part of God’s body.
Stand with me!  Agree with me!  We’re all a part of God’s body.
It is his will that every need be supplied
You are important to me!  I need you to survive!


To join a group, click the link below:

https://goo.gl/forms/Qz2pMgkqy0xRM9eD3

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