Mission with Prophetic Power: The Journal of John Woolman (SRSC 12)

Chapter 2: Learning to Speak (1743–1756)

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Woolman’s concern for the condition of slaves, or his sense of the value of simplicity—shape the course of our entire lives. What concerns, or God-birthed burdens can you identify in your own life? How have they contributed to your ministry?

Woolman frequently uses a process of action reflection to learn from his experience. Why not give this a try? Take a little time right here,

and afterward reflect with your small group on what you noticed. First, choose some recent event in your ministry. Ask the Spirit of God to be present as you reflect. Then replay the event in your mind. Remember the situation, moment by moment. After you finish “playing back the video” of your memory, then ask God to point out those aspects of your ministry that were praiseworthy. Notice and celebrate them. This will reinforce good things in the future. Next, ask God to point out those aspects that might need improvement in God’s sight. Consider what kinds of action might be small, appropriate steps of improvement.

John Woolman was very conscious of his basic life habits. Managing his habits of work, finances and relationships expressed his values and

provided freedom for him to pursue the things he felt were most important. Woolman calls his lifestyle a “plain” life. What do you think about his lifestyle habits, his choice of a plain life? What kind of habits might you want to introduce into your life that would model the values God has impressed upon you?