This is your first month and it is important to get off to a good start.  Make sure everyone is on the same page and knows what is expected of them.  Don’t be afraid to set the bar high and challenge them to rise to the occasion.  You should have already had this conversation with each individual, but this is to the group as a whole.  Let them know that they are responsible for holding each other accountable to this commitment.

Leader Guide 

• During the first couple of meetings, spend some extra time getting the group to know each other. The assignment will help to get to know each other, but it is not until the last week of the month.

• I like a fellowship activity to kick off the year, especially if I don't know my group well.

• There is a self-evaluation form in the appendix of the Get Strong Discipleship book. This is a great way to measure growth during the year and set personal goals. I usually have them turn them in during the first month, and we review them at the end of the year.

• Focus on good spiritual habits - Daily bible reading, scripture memory, application.

• Know Your Story assignment - encourage them to get beneath the surface. This exercise will help them see the big picture of their life. Hopefully, they will see God's activity in the past and where God is leading them in the future.

• Have your group ask lots of questions after each person shares their story.

Get Strong Bible Reading Plan – Talking Points 

• Creation is a great foundational topic to discuss. Is the Bible true in all things? Can it be trusted?

• How did Adam and Eve's sin affect us today?

• Have you ever felt like you were going through a season of being in the wilderness? How was God at work?

• Joseph - How do you see and respond to sin and temptation? Do you see it as a sin against God? Do you run/avoid tempting situations?

• Joseph - Has God ever used pain or struggles from your life for good later on?

Book Recommendations: 

 There are no assigned books in the first month.