Celebrate!
You have now completed this introduction to the six paths to growth. As you continue your walk of faith, consider what paths you would like to explore further and what your next steps might be. In addition to taking part in organized studies of the various paths, other possibilities include the following:
The Path of Worship
Become more deeply involved in the worship life of your congregation. Attend worship more regularly; help create new worship opportunities; become involved in a prayer ministry; use your gifts to make existing services more dynamic. Set aside a daily time in which you privately pray and worship.
The Path of Community
Continue to take part in a small group, whether your existing group continues or a new group needs to be formed. Be intentional in reaching out to your fellow church members, and be a source of encouragement. Seek out those with whom you have had differences and pursue reconciliation.
The Path of Learning
Become an advocate for the educational ministries of your church. Offer to help in planning the classes and workshops that are offered. Become involved in personal study, using devotional guides like this one or more intensive studies from reputable Christian publishers. Ask one of your pastors or a Christian educator for study suggestions.
The Path of Service
Become involved in an ongoing service ministry of your church. If you don’t find a project that appeals to you, consider creating a new service ministry. Ask one of your pastors about how to create this new ministry.
The Path of Invitation
Look for opportunities to invite people to experience Christ through your Christian community. You can invite them to worship or to other “less threatening” opportunities like church dinners and fellowship events. You might also be able to help your church plan special invitational events and encourage others to become involved in the ministry of invitation.
The Path of Stewardship
Search for ways you can be a better steward. Become an advocate for environmental stewardship in your church or community. Ask one of your pastors about how you can discover your spiritual gifts and put them to use. Consider ways you might make more faithful use of your time or material resources.
