At NSCBC, we believe that multiplying disciples who make disciples is crucial to seeing a gospel movement on the North Shore. Throughout the year, we want to highlight encouraging stories of our people growing through discipleship groups and preparing to multiply their faith. Our discipleship groups run for about one-year each and are leader-initiated, with most beginning shortly after the new year. Stay tuned for more info about how to sign up for one next year!
Will you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I’m Lauren Meekins, married to Joe Meekins. We have 4 children: Everlee (5.5), Ezra (3.5) Eleanor (21 months) and Ellis (6 months). I am a stay-at-home mom and feel really blessed to be able to do so. We live in Beverly and have attended NSCBC since August 2017 before Ezra was born in November.
Who is in your discipleship group, and what led you to want to join a D-group?
I am in a discipleship group with Stephanie F, Sarah R, and our leader, Jessi R.
Joe and I were talking about discipleship groups one day, and I told him I’d been praying God would have someone reach out if that was his will. The next day, I received an email from Jessi about joining her group. God made it pretty clear this was the right time for me!
What has been the most impactful part of your discipleship group experience so far?
I have really loved the weekly accountability of reading scripture and praying together. Consistency is something I’m trying to grow in this year. Also, learning from other women who have a solid understanding and deep insight into God’s word has both challenged and encouraged me.
What is one way you’re growing in your love for God and his word so far this year?
One way I feel I’ve grown in my love for God and his word is through viewing the Bible as a whole story and seeing God’s vision and creativity woven throughout. I love finding new perspectives and insights, so reading through the ESV study Bible and hearing more of the history surrounding the text has been exciting for me.
What is one area of your life where you’ve been spurred on to fresh obedience to Jesus, from being part of your discipleship group?
I have had a few other mom friends ask how, in this season, do I remain consistently in God’s word. I’ve been able to encourage them by sharing how a small discipleship group with accountability, godly women, and open conversation has made reading God’s word “work”, at this stage in my life. You make time for what’s important to you, and this group has given me the structure to make studying scripture a priority in my life.
What is one way that your discipleship group is helping you to love others well (family, friends, co-workers)?
Through confession. Let’s be honest, parenting young children is really difficult at times and being able to confess where I am struggling and where I see God stretching me has been an incredible way to love my own family better. I know this group of women is thinking about me and praying for me throughout the week, as I am for them. It’s so incredible, the power of confession and accountability among believers.
What is one thing you’re learning in your discipleship group that you want to take with you when you disciple others in the future?
All of the above, as well as, seeking out areas in our character that could grow to reflect Christ better. I value vulnerability and humility among women and being able to challenge one another in ways other people in our lives cannot.
I appreciate how our group encourages one another through observations they make. I’m thinking of one friend in particular, who is always following up with specific details and is mindful of people’s emotions. To be heard, known, and understood reminds me of how God listens to us and desires to know us more. In turn, being in this group fills my cup to love and encourage my family and others around for God’s glory.
