Living Word Church of the Nazarene

Small Group Study Opportunities Starting January 2008

We have heard many testimonies from those who participated in small group studies offered at Living Word Church of the Nazarene (LWN) how much they enjoyed and benefited from the small group discussion aspect. Starting Sunday January 6, 2008, we are planning offer the small group studies listed and described below. Signup sheets are available at a table in the LWN Worship Center Foyer. Sign up for the study of your choice TODAY or call the LWN Church Office at 281-500-8913.

A NEW BLEND
Blended Families Seeking God's Will
Plans for a future and a hope…. Jeremiah 29:11

Blended families are not a new concept, Jesus had a stepfather. Yet, the reality is stepfamilies are a real and growing part of our society. It is amazing to see how fast things can change. Our culture can be like Houston roads…change, change, change. Here is an example:

• Approximately 1300 new stepfamilies are formed every day in the US , and it's predicted that by 2010 there will be more stepfamilies in the US than any other type of family.

• 1 out of 3 Americans is now a stepparent, stepchild, a stepsibling, or some other member of a stepfamily.

We will explore the spiritual and relational challenges facing stepfamilies. Integrating a stepfamily is one of the most difficult tasks for any family in America today. Integration involves combining two unique family styles, various personalities and preferences, differing traditions, pasts and loyalties.

Working smarter not harder is our goal so we will look into God's Word and explore some great resources over the next twelve weeks. During this time we will be equipped as step families, believers and ministers to help those close to us and reach out to others. Each lesson stands on its own so please invite your friends, family and neighbors to be a part of this time of learning, fun and spiritual growth.

BIBLICAL FINANCIAL PLANNING

The Crown Biblical Financial Study is an in-depth study of what scripture teaches about money and possessions. Participants have confirmed that marriages are being strengthened and individuals are finding their way out of debt. They are also becoming consistent savers, generous givers, and prudent consumers. Most importantly, people are entering into a closer relationship with Jesus Christ as they learn to apply His Word. Groups meet hours every week.

DIVORCECARE

Subject: DivorceCare is a biblically based ministry program with friendly, caring people who will walk alongside you through one of life's most difficult experiences.

Purpose: To help separated/divorced people with the healing process needed due to the divorce and give them the tools necessary to develop healthier relationships by learning that God's love strengthens them and they are not alone.

Content: DivorceCare groups meet weekly to help you face challenges and move toward rebuilding your life. The session begins with a video seminar. After viewing the video, the group participants spend time as a support group, discussing what was presented in that week's video seminar and what is going on in the lives of group members.

Planned Duration: 13 weekly sessions with each session lasting 1 ½ hours.

DIVORCE CARE 4 KIDS

Subject: DivorceCare for Kids is a biblically based, Christ-centered ministry program designed to bring healing to children in divorce situations. It points children to God and introduces them to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Purpose: To assist children with the grieving process brought on by divorce and give them the tools necessary to develop healthier relationships within their own families by learning that God's love strengthens them and they are not alone, and creating opportunities for children and parents to talk about the issues they face.

Content: Each session is filled with motivating and exciting activities. Games, crafts, role playing, discussion times, devotions, journaling and workbooks help children process the divorce and move forward in their lives. The music CD's, snacks, read aloud stories, exercises and Bible verses teach children to relax and rest secure in God's love.

Target Audience: children ages 7-10 (2 nd to 5 th grade)
Planned Duration: 13 weekly sessions with each session lasting 1 ½ hours.

GROWING KIDS GOD'S WAY (ALONG THE VIRTUOUS WAY)

This is a comprehensive values-based parenting curriculum. In the title the authors, Gary and Anne Marie Ezzo, place their emphasis on God's Way meaning the way of the Lord. We serve an ethical God. Moral rightness flows from His being. His moral law is a reflection of His holy character (Psalm 19:7). More than that, He has shown man what is good and what is required of him (Micah 6:8). Growing Kids God's Way can help any parent reach the heart of children with virtues and values that flow from the character of God and do it without stressing the child or the parents.

WHEN GOD'S PEOPLE PRAY

Scripture warns believers that it is possible to miss out on the blessings of God because we do not ask (James 4:2). “When God's People Pray” is a six-week video series produced by the Brooklyn Tabernacle to help God's people discover prayer as a lifeline to God, our source of strength and abundant blessing. This small group series, facilitated by Pastor Scott, will help us engage in serious prayer and become a living display of what God can accomplish here on earth. The series will inspire you, challenge you, and train you to live a life of prayer.