Within Jesus’ community of twelve disciples He had three who were His inner circle, His closest associates. Peter, James and John were invited by Jesus to see (Mt. 17:1-2), hear (Mt. 26:37-39) and experience (Mark 5:37,41-43) Him in ways the other disciples didn’t. This illustrates what I would call a growth group.

A growth group as I define it is a group of 3-5 men that meet regularly to share honestly and pray specifically with one another. Each person has the opportunity to talk about where he’s at, what he’s struggling with, confess his sin, share his dreams and reveal himself in a confidential setting. The others can ask questions, probe further, encourage, admonish, challenge, weep and rejoice with the one who is sharing.

When everyone has had the opportunity to share with the others, we go to prayer and pray specifically about everything we just talked about. Our gathering is not a Bible study or a barbeque, it is a prayer fellowship. It is a time of worship, surrender, asking for ourselves and interceding for the others. When it’s done well this process often takes 2-3 hours. And it will certainly take one’s prayer life to the next level.

I strongly encourage every believer to establish such a growth group, or at the very least establish a prayer partner with whom you can share honestly and pray specifically. After one’s personal devotional life I believe this is the next best spiritual habit one can practice for his spiritual growth.