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1. The eight habits are universal. They apply to all cultures and all types of groups. They are foundational principles that work for any type of group and any type of leader. They are usable with any group of people whatever their age, race, gender, or socioeconomic status. They can be lived in the inner city or on the farm. They work for those on a college campus, those in a foreign nation, and those in the suburbs of the U.S.
   Although some see a distinction between "small groups" and "cell groups," in this book the terms are treated interchangeably. This is because the eight habits are universal and apply to both.
2. The eight habits have broad application. One beautiful fact is that they are essentially the same habits that produce effectiveness for coaches of small group leaders, zone directors, and small group pastors. Once a leader incorporates them, he or she has the foundation for moving up the levels of small group leadership.
3. These habits are easy to understand and remember. I have seen small group leaders' eyes light up as their mentors explain the eight habits to them. Leaders nod their head and say, "Yes. I see. That's simple enough. It's just common sense."
4. The best quality of these habits is that they are doable. Any leader can put them into practice, if he invests the time. When small group leaders hear the habits explained, they nod, saying things like, "This is just what I have been looking for. Now I have a clear course to follow. I can do this."
5. The eight habits are realistic. Most leaders can fit them into their busy schedules. It does not take a spiritual giant or someone with unlimited time to do them. These eight habits are attainable goals for all cell leaders.
6. The eight habits are motivating. Upon learning them, leaders burn with the passion to put them into practice. The eight habits are challenging, but not overwhelming.

The eight habits can take a small group leader, and those under him or her, to a new level. Whether an apprentice leader, a novice small group leader, a seasoned leader, a coach of small group leaders, a director of a district of groups, or a pastor of a large small group ministry, the eight habits will work. These habits lead to fruitfulness and multiplication. The eight habits will help leaders, and those under them, experience greater fulfillment in ministry.

The eight habits of effective small group leaders are as follows:

1. Dream of leading a healthy, growing, multiplying group.
2. Pray for group members daily.
3. Invite new people to visit the group weekly.
4. Contact group members regularly.
5. Prepare for the group meeting.
6. Mentor an apprentice leader.
7. Plan group fellowship activities.
8. Be committed to personal growth.

To learn more about these eight habits, see the book 8 Habits of Effective Small Group Leaders, Dave Earley, Cell Group Resources, a division of TOUCH® Outreach Ministries, http://www.touchusa.org. Used with permission.

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