EUREKA! I have an idea...

As the economy continues to be poor and life throws many challenges our way, prayer time in Life Group can become focused on struggles and difficulties. Lately we've been noticing that our prayer time has focused increasingly on requests and negative events in our lives, so one creative member of our group came up with an idea...

Each week, at the beginning of prayer time, we put a vase in the center of the room and pass a bag of marbles around. Everyone takes turns putting marbles into the vase, sharing a praise or answer to prayer for each one, until everyone has had a chance to share. After this, we spend time sharing needs and requests, praying for each other as we do.

This has helped keep what could be a downside of group life positive and encouraging, while also providing a visual representation of God's work in our lives!

What kind of creative prayer exercises does your group use? Share in the comments below!

Recommended Reading: Creating Community

Over the summer I read several great books about the Christian life, ministry and more; this one, however is all about groups!

Co-authored by Andy Stanley and Bill Willits, 'Creating Community' is an easy read but draws deep from the experiences of its two authors to pass on ideas and principles in order to help develop a 'small group culture' at your church.

In chapter 1, Willits writes, "We are a culture craving relationship. In the midst of our crowded existence, many of us are living lonely lives. We live and work in a sea of humanity, but we end up missing out on the benefits of regular, meaningful relationships.'

And that's just the beginning! If you are interested, like me, in helping develop a small group culture at your church, then I highly recommend picking up a copy of 'Creating Community' today.