Not every group will be the right fit for every person—and that’s okay. God’s love is big enough to meet people where they are, even if one group isn’t the perfect match. Sometimes personalities, life stages, or schedules just don’t line up in a way that makes a particular group ideal.

As a leader, here’s how you can respond with both grace and gospel-centered care:

Lead with welcome. Include them fully and help them feel valued. Everyone is created in God’s image and invited into community, even if it takes a little time to find the right fit.

Discern with prayer. Ask God for wisdom. Sometimes a group needs a little patience, and sometimes another group will help them grow more fully in Christ.

Have an honest, loving conversation. If it seems clear the group isn’t a good match, meet one-on-one. Affirm their desire for community and remind them of God’s love, then gently suggest another group where they might thrive spiritually.

Point to Christ and His church. Encourage them that the goal isn’t just social comfort—it’s growing in Christ and walking in fellowship with other believers. Help them find a group where they can experience both.

Remember, your role isn’t to make every person fit perfectly—it’s to shepherd those God entrusts to you while guiding each person toward the fullness of life in Christ.