Simple Journey Sharing for a New Year

Before the Gathering, email the following to each member:

If possible, think through the questions below; they will be the focus of our Group Journey Sharing. 

  • Does this new year have you inspired and motivated or are you worn and weary; maybe even disillusioned? 
  • Are there factors in your life that are subconsciously weighing on you?
  • What do you need from the Lord as you step into _________?

Reference the following two verses then talk through the previously emailed questions and content following.

“So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord’s work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever in vain” 1Cor. 15:58

“Those who wait (trust in) the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31

Does this new year have you inspired and motivated or are you worn and weary; maybe even disillusioned? 

Are there factors in your life that are subconsciously weighing on you? (covid?)

What do you need from the Lord as you step into ________?

If you are motivated and inspired, there are likely still factors you need to process. Perhaps you need new ways to ground your excitement in deeper trust, confirmed leading and solid Scriptural truth. If so, how might you do that? How can you determine clear Biblical goals and plans for moving forward?

If you are worn, weary, or disillusioned, what do you need from the Lord in order to find renewal and strength? How can you access and actually receive what you need from the Lord?

The following steps can provide the structure for seeking the Lord in either of these needs.

  1. Do NOT try to figure things out on your own. No matter how well meaning or “responsible” that may seem. Don’t do it!
  2. Open your need up before the Lord. Write the issue(s) out in-depth to the best of your understanding. Then write down your emotions; the way this issue has made you feel. Next, pray it all back to the Lord expressing total dependence with no will of your own in the matter.
  3. Now LISTEN in every detail of your life for the Holy Spirit’s response to your prayer. Listen with expectancy, as if on high alert. Take note of everything. Ask the Lord for clarity when needed but do NOT doubt.
  4. Follow His leading as it unfolds, step by step. Answers may come quickly or very slowly but almost always they will come methodically, steady on and firm. Focus on making all adjustments needed to follow what you hear step at a time.
  5. Make a record of your journey.

Instructions for Breakout Leaders if Gathering is large or for a Zoom Gathering

  • Share 5-7 minutes regarding this general topic/questions. 
  • Give everyone 5 minutes without video and muted, to think through questions in light of content that was shared. 
  • Separate the group into breakout rooms with each no more than three people in each breakout room. Disignate a Facilitator for each room. 
  • Facilitators discuss the questions more in-depth, giving each one in the breakout room a chance to share their personal responses (including the Facilitator). Then invite each to give prayer requests and pray in a circle.  Try to keep this breakout time within 40minutes.
  • The Leader will end the breakout rooms with a one-minute warning. 
  • Return to full group and give everyone the chance to share a quick response or take away from our time together. 
  • Instead of a Reflection Guide, encourage everyone to write down bullet point takeaways and keep them in their Bible to review this month.  You can also share announcements and confirm the date for the next Gathering before closing in prayer.