Tara Leads a Life Group – Summer Project

I keep sharing about my summer in these letters because the students who were part of the Boston Summer Project have returned to campus as key leaders. Tara from Babson is no exception. Here’s what she shared about leading a “life group” bible study”

“What makes or breaks this group is not only our study of the Word, but whether or not the girls (in my case) felt comfortable to open up about who they are and their lives.

The first time I led the group, I was pretty nervous. While I was preparing the bible study, I felt God asking me to do something that I was trying to avoid. I have always felt the need to meet high expectations; so naturally, I wouldn’t want to tell others of sins I have struggled with. However God has really been working on my heart to admit to myself and to others how much we need Christ in light of all of our sins.

So I made the decision to share these struggles with my group, even though I wasn’t sure how they would receive this information. I have to say, this was one of the biggest blessings God has given me, because this group of girls was so supportive and understanding. As a result, all 3 of the other girls opened up about their struggles, and our bond of sisters in Christ was definitely strengthened.

I looked forward to our Life Group time every week, because I knew God would speak to us through the Scriptures and the other girls in my group would continue to share their hearts with everyone. These were definitely some of the great moments of mine on the summer project, but the Lord really helped me grow throughout the entire experience.”

It’s letters like that from students that make me realize why I’m doing what I do. It also makes me realize how thankful I am for each of you. I thank you so much for your continued support. God Bless, Brian

How to Pray

For the 16 students on the Boston Summer Project as they return to campus—that they would continue to lead by depending on Jesus Christ.

Gail’s New Confidence – Summer Project

Gail has always struggled with a lack of confidence and self worth. But, she says, it was “only because I wasn’t finding my identity in Christ alone. I found my identity in how I performed in school, work, and relationships. Not only was I a “performer” but a perfectionist. This faulty identity resulted in constantly feeling frustrated with myself for always falling short. This summer, God broke me of this identity when He gave me the opportunity to lead project as a co-director. When the staff left and we took over our jobs, I came into the position very aware of my faults and weaknesses. On top of that, God continued to reveal to me more of my faults and weaknesses! But the true blessing in all of this was that I realized how God’s grace covered everything that I lacked. It allowed me to see how much I needed Him. I realized that I could not lead just by my own strength. I needed to allow Him to work in me and give myself up to Him. Each day, I learned to become more dependent on the Lord. I started asking for His guidance when making decisions and asking and accepting His forgiveness when I made mistakes. I’ve been relying on who He created me to be (Ephesians 2: 1-10) not who I or others think I should be. I’ve been filled with His love so I can serve and love those around me, understanding what it really means to lead in Christ and be “light and salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:14-16).

Now that project is over and a new school year begins, I look forward to taking on the ministry God placed before me on my campus. I am ready to move forward with this new found confidence and self worth because it is He who gives my life purpose.”

It’s letters like that from students that make me realize why I’m doing what I do. It also makes me realize how thankful I am for each of you. I thank you so much for your continued support. God Bless, Brian