And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Titus 2:7 NLT

Great Small Group Leaders invest time and energy into their own personal, spiritual growth.

As our focus scripture says above, we must be an example to others. Our small group members have access to our lives, making what we do as important as what we say. The CSB says to "make yourself an example." I love the intentionality of that statement. Some questions for us to consider are: 1) How's my time in the Word and in prayer? 2) Am I setting an example by sharing Christ with others? 3) Am I making an impact on people by loving them well through my words and actions?

Great Small Group Leaders work toward the spiritual growth of their group.

There should be a distinct difference between a college professor and a small group leader. A professor gives the information but often isn't that concerned over whether the student really learns. A small group leader should be more like a coach. Just as every player needs to grow and improve so that the team can win, group leaders need to accept a certain amount of responsibility for the growth of every individual in the group. And to go further, our goal is not just knowledge but transformation.

Great Small Group Leaders involve others in the ministry of the group.

People grow more by serving than they do by sitting and listening. 1 Peter 4:10 reminds us that all believers receive spiritual gifts to serve others. Let's make sure we give people the opportunity to use their gifts. Do we share the teaching ministry? Do we have other roles that people can play, like prayer leader, missions leader, or fellowship leader?

Great Small Group Leaders regularly engage with members.

Relationships with group members are really important. It vastly increases the impact we can make as we lead people to be more like Jesus. When someone misses a group meeting or activity, it means a lot to them to hear from us. In countless church exit interviews, I heard the phrase, "Nobody missed us." Even a quick text message can be very effective. Another easy idea is to invite group members along when we go out to eat or watch a ballgame. Involve them in what we are already doing.

Great Small Group Leaders work hard but trust God's work even more. Thus, good leaders pray often for their group members.

Yes, leading a group does involve a lot of hard work and diligence. If we have been leading for years and feel competent, we should be careful – the more comfortable we become, the less we feel the need to ask God for help. In addition to praying for ourselves as we lead, let's remember to pray often for the growth of our group members.

Great Small Group Leaders are prepared for the meeting each week.

Josh Hunt says, "You don't have to hit a home run every week, but you do need to at least hit a single." Sometimes, our plan doesn't land as we expected, but we do need to have a plan. Consider long-term goals for your group and its members. That will help you plan the steps to get there. Remember, we're not just presenting content for knowledge's sake; we're making disciples, and that takes time. Ask yourself, "What can I do this week to move my people toward a more faithful walk with Christ?"