You can use >SM Journals as an individual or in a variety of group settings. Choose how you plan to use our journals below for tips and ideas to help you follow Jesus with those making up your group’s dynamic.
Using The >SM Journals in a Group
Whether you’re meeting weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, this simple, Scripture-first pathway is designed to help your group grow together by walking through the life of Jesus.
- Read the assigned passages during the week
- Use the Devotional Bible Study Method (Pray–Read–Ask–Pray)
- Come ready to share what God showed you
- Pray for one another
How Group Members Prepare During the Week
Each person reads through the assigned passages and uses a simple, repeatable rhythm to hear from God through His Word.
Devotional Bible Study Method
Pray – Read – Ask – Pray
- Pray: Ask God to help you understand His Word
- Read: Read the passage slowly (more than once if needed)
- Ask: What is God teaching me? (Use PETS below)
- Pray: Respond to God based on what you learned
Use the P.E.T.S. Framework
As you read, look for:
- P – Promise: Is there a promise to trust?
- E – Example: Is there an example to follow or avoid?
- T – Truth: What truth is God revealing?
- S – Sin: Is there a sin to confess or turn from?
This isn’t about studying everything perfectly. It’s about consistently hearing from God through His Word and responding in faith.
What to Do When Your Group Meets
Keep it simple. The goal is not to impress—it’s to grow together in Christ.
Simple Group Flow
- Casual Conversation
Catch up and connect as people - Opening Prayer
Ask God to guide your time - Share Insights
Each person shares what stood out from their readings - Scripture Memory (Optional)
Quote verses you’ve been working on - Prayer Requests
Share what’s going on in your lives - Closing Prayer
Pray for one another
Resist the urge to turn this into a lecture. Let the group engage Scripture personally. Your role is to guide conversation, not dominate it.
Using This as a Couple or Family
This same structure works in any environment:
- Couples: Share what God is teaching each of you and pray together
- Families: Read together and discuss in simple, age-appropriate ways
- Groups: Build consistency and community around God’s Word
You don’t need a complicated system to disciple people. You need consistent time in God’s Word, honest sharing, and prayer.
Start Your Journey
If your group hasn’t started yet, begin with Set 1. If you’re already reading, jump to your current set below.
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