This is an excellent book for spiritual growth. Although it is geared towards a group setting, it also is excellent for individuals. This is the basis of some of the "megachurch" growth, but I think that has gotten a bad rap. Much of that growth is genuine and it is the (bad) copy-cats that give them a bad reputation (I have been in churches of all sizes and currently in a small-medium sized church). The basis is a sincere desire to walk with God. That is paramount. This book builds on the stepping stones of many other spiritual successes, which is often quite different than the world's definition of success (number, appearance, human-focus). This book is well-written and easy to read. It is short, so many of the chapters can be read in a matter of minutes.

My small group moved into deeper waters by studying this book together. There are challenges for all levels of spirituality. We plan on returning to this book in another year or so. It explains the Willow Creek Churches 5G's (Grace, Group, Growth, Gifts, and Good Stewardship) and how to use each one as a stepping stone to your personal devotion with the Lord. May the Lord bless you through this study series.

Growth: Training vs. Trying is a very readable book with short but pointed narratives and spritual exercises.

Each lesson identifies an area of discipline. The text isn't afraid to address common misunderstandings, mistakes and shortcoming when it comes to our exercising a certain discipline. And yet, it is encouraging and helpful in allowing the reader to see where he/she would rather be in his/her relationship with God and how to get there. The spiritual exercises are especially helpful in moving the reader from "theory" in the lesson to practical daily "application".

While the text and the spiritual exercises were excellent, the bible study questions were a bit lacking and not necessarily good in prompting meaningful discussion. I would not use it as is but rather as a roadmap/guide in exploring key ideas and develop your own questions for small group discussions.

"So what did you get for number four?" "Number four? Let's see...I got "the Lord." What about you?" Ever heard that kind of interaction in a small group? It's frustrating, and many of the small-group bible study guides promote this kind of dry, academic approach by sticking to a simple question and answer type of format, with little or no assistance in facilitating relevant discussion. Not so this book! I found "Growth--training vs. trying" to be an excellent study guide for use in a small group/growth group. Its balance of spiritual exercise and bible study provide the reader with a positive and challenging means to apply what they are learning--as they are learning it! The discussion questions in the guide itself promote great opportunities for the members of a group to get to know one another better and develop closer relationships as they encourage one another in spiritual growth. The readings that open each chapter are relevant, straightforward, and thought provoking. If you are considering a bible study guide to use for a discussion oriented small group, or simply interested in a great resource for your own individual study, I highly recommend this one. (This book is one of a seven booklet series, "Pursuing Spiritual Transformation.")

This book is a good tool to use for small groups, fellowship studies, or sunday school class. I used it for my college sunday school class to place emphasis on embracing our Christian community. While John Ortberg does a good job at painting the picture for us, it is basically his "The Life You've Always Wanted" book re-done for small groups in a practical way. I enjoyed using this guide but had to restructure the questions and format to cater to a sunday school environment. I would recommend making sure you know your group, and understand their needs, and perhaps come up with additional questions to meet the needs of your group.