How to make spiritual connections with your neighbors.

Now that you're intentionally getting to know your neighbors, it's time to go a little deeper and start making spiritual connections. 

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"I wonder what would happen if we shared our lives with people first–loved them regardless of whether they ever accepted our message or not? What if we protected them, fed them, gave them drink, clothing, and encouragement simply out of love, with no hidden agenda whatsoever? We would be living our faith then, and that is the only type of faith that saves. Not only does it save others, it saves us. "

—DARRELL LACKEY

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Before we begin, we want to remind you that people are not projects. They will know immediately if you're befriending them with a hidden agenda. Ask questions and go deeper because you're genuinely interested in getting to know the person. As you build trust, you'll find natural opportunities to start sharing your faith.

Drop a faith flag

As you talk to your neighbor, listen for a link between your life and theirs that has a spiritual note to it, so you can organically share a spiritual comment. Make a comment that identifies you as a Christ-follower -- something that simply puts God on the map, or plants a small seed. "I've been thinking the same thing about [a local issue]. It makes me remember that God is merciful and kind."

Offer to pray

As your neighbor shares with you, offer to pray for them. "That must be difficult. Can I pray for you about that this week?" 

Be sure to actually pray for them. Then, circle back and let them know you've been praying for them, and ask for an update. If you need help remembering to follow up, schedule it on your phone calendar so you don't forget. Use technology to your advantage!

Share a faith story

“I have been through a job loss, too. We had prayed for months about the economy and layoffs…” 

As you connect with your neighbor, share how your relationship with Christ affected your experience. You can invite further connection and conversation by asking them a question or making a comment that allows you to listen more. Keep the conversation going because this is a person you care about.

Make an invitation

As you get to know your neighbor, think about the things your church offers that might be valuable to them. Is she a mom of young kids who is looking for friends? Invite her to a MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group. Does your neighbor enjoy exercise? Connect them with a workout group affiliated with your church. If your church offers free child care to promote date nights, invite them on a double date and let your kids attend together.

Above all else, pray for your neighbor. Ask God to open your eyes to opportunities to love them and to share his hope and love with them.

Share the good news

As your relationship grows with your neighbors, be intentional to get them around the Gospel. You never know where they are in their faith journey and if they are ready to receive Him! Whether you share your personal testimony, they hear it during a church service or they connect to another believer who lays it all on the table, be intentional! You are a mouthpiece of the story that changes lives.

Whether you're walking through this study individually or as a group, take a moment to process by asking yourself these questions:

• Eighty percent of Americans said they would go to evangelistic events if invited. What events or ongoing programs or ministries with your church might appeal to your neighbors? 
  
• Recall a time before you trusted Christ when someone made a spiritual connection with you. Briefly share how they planted a seed, put God on the map, or let you know they were a Christ-follower. If you were young when you trusted Christ as your savior, note a time when someone made a spiritual connection and started a spiritual relationship with you that changed the course of your story with Jesus. 
  
  

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