Awkward conversations in small groups are uncomfortable! It doesn’t take long in a group setting for a challenging conversation to take place.
Leaders should be ready to guide awkward conversations in small groups toward fruitfulness. When the discussion is not on task it becomes easy for others to check out.
Rather than wondering what you should have said or what others must have been thinking, be proactive in leading the conversation by keeping the following tips in mind:
1. Pray For Wisdom When Awkward Conversations Are Happening.
Additional prayer is always good but especially when a discussion begins to take place that enters into deep waters or controversial subjects. When conversations get awkward start praying. Ask God for wisdom, truth, and discernment.
James 1:5-6 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.
Knowing when to continue a conversation or to stop it and what to say requires the wisdom of God.
2. Is The Discussion Fruitful?
Another way to determine if a conversation is worth continuing is by asking yourself if it is fruitful? The following scriptures provide boundaries for the conversations that we engage in.
Although a topic may be ok, it’s important to determine if the conversation is producing spiritual fruit.
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Even though specific subjects may not be inherently wrong, pay attention to the manner in which it is being discussed. Also, is it relevant to the group and not just an individual. Awkward conversations in small groups are no fun, for anyone!
Pay attention to the group dynamics and be observant of the demeanor of those in your group. Doing so will help you to know when it’s time to move on for the good of the group.
3. Balance Everything With The Word Of God.
Ultimately, God’s Word should always be the source that we use to uphold teaching and ways of thinking. The Bible helps us to know God and His heart in a deeper way and to equip us to live according to it.
Philippians 1:9-11 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
How have you handled awkward conversations in small groups? Have you found yourself applying these principles as you lead small group conversations?
Leading a small group is challenging. Awkward conversations in small groups is even more challenging! That’s why I wrote Intentional Small Groups. This ebook is provides down to earth guidance for offering powerful, life changing groups. I created it specifically for group leaders after leading groups and directing a small group ministry. The book is based upon the questions and conversations that arose from real small group experiences and ministry.
Intentional Small Groups is a complete guide for leaders that is divided into six parts specific to small group leader training!
- Leadership Essentials
- Understanding Spiritual Growth
- Multiplication
- Keys To A Successful Small Group
- Navigating Conversations
- Final Encouragement
If you lead a small group around a common interest, share a bible study, meet with other married couples, have a prayer group, or gather in a home or a coffee shop the principles in this guide will equip you and provide effective small group leader training.
I wrote this eBook to help you lead your group in the most effective way possible.
I wrote Intentional Small Groups because a great small group does not happen by accident. Successful small groups are forged by people who lead with purpose and great intentionality. I believe reading this eBook will help you to do just that.
Click the button below to purchase the Intentional Small Groups: A Complete Guide For Leaders using the easy to use digital download and get immediate access to the training manual and free bonus!
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Doing so just might help you avoid more awkward conversations in small groups.
