New leaders are vital to the long-term health of the church and our Small Groups. We also know that it's easy for us to get caught up in life's day-to-day demands. We often don't consider the importance of discovering and developing new leaders. Over the next few weeks, we encourage you to step back and give some thought to developing future leaders in your group. 

As you look around the circle in your Small Group, here are some qualities to look for in next generation of leaders. But don't forget that we're in the business of helping people grow. We also want to find ways to develop these qualities in the lives of all our group members.

1. Faithful to Their Small Group

The first quality of future leaders is that they are committed to their Small Group and what happens there. Specifically, we seek Christ together, encourage each other as we follow Christ, and serve in ministry together. (Hebrews 10:24)

2. Hunger for God

We want future leaders to be growing in Christ. We'll see this as they have a hunger for God that shows up as a hunger for His Word and a strong desire to live their life in a way that glorifies God. You might also see they desire for others to love the Word; thus, they will show some interest in sharing Scripture with others. (Psalm 42.1) 

3. Heart for Unbelievers

Potential leaders need a heart for those who don't know Christ. They have the desire to see more and more people experience the joy of following Christ as they do. This will be evident in the prayers they pray and the movement that they make toward people. (1 Corinthians 9:22)

4. Relational Skills

This is the ability to know how to relate well to people. People with good relational skills generally know when to speak and when to listen, when to move close and when to give someone space, along with showing empathy for others. When they speak, they usually know the right words to say in specific situations. (Proverbs 15:23)

5. Willingness and Capacity to Engage

The potential leader will exhibit a willingness to take new steps in ministry assignments. They are eager to see the group and the church grow. Some people may have that desire but have no margin in life for anything new. Potential leaders will need to prioritize ministry in their lives.
(2 Thessalonians 1:11)

As we invest in tomorrow's leaders, let's look for and develop each of these characteristics.