Being a Small Group leader for 10th-grade girls at Inside Out has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It wasn’t something I ever imagined myself doing, but when my son suggested it, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and give it a try. He told me I’d probably gain more from the experience than the girls would from me, and he couldn’t have been more right. These young women have become like daughters to me, and leading them has been a privilege that has shaped me in ways I never anticipated. They’ve deepened my faith, challenged my understanding, and taught me so much about myself—not just as a leader, but as a parent, a friend, and a follower of Christ.
There are moments when I feel unqualified, worrying I won’t have the answers to their big questions or that I might fall short. But those fears have driven me to lean into my faith and seek wisdom from others. These girls push me to grow, to have deeper conversations, and to trust God in new ways.
Is it time-consuming? Yes. Is it exhausting at times? Absolutely. Do I find myself dressing in all pink, singing Taylor Swift songs, and dancing down the street to a session at Daytona? You bet. Do I stay up until 2 AM comforting a teenage girl when she feels hopeless? You better believe it. I’ve formed an incredible bond with my co-leader, someone who was a complete stranger at the start but is now a dear friend. I’ve built a community of like-minded Christ-followers who share my passion for high school students and their faith journeys. And perhaps one of the greatest blessings is knowing my son is proud of me—I think he just might be, and that means the world to me.
When you feel that gentle nudge from God to serve, don’t ignore it. Step into it, even if it’s unfamiliar or intimidating, because He’s got an incredible plan for you. This year and a half at Inside Out has been filled with moments where God’s hand has been so evident, reminding me that I am exactly where I’m supposed to be. The joy, growth, and community I’ve found in this role are blessings I never saw coming, and I am endlessly grateful to be part of these girls’ lives while they pour so much into mine.
So what are you waiting for?
You are Made For More, too. Volunteering in our church is one way you can discover the more you are made for. Ready to find out what you were made for?
