There can sometimes be a sense of feeling overwhelmed in ministry. The to-do list is very long, the emails pile up within a matter of hours, and other projects call for our immediate attention. Then there are the challenges of serving alongside others and the possibility of roadblocks at times, not to mention balancing family and personal needs. This is when friends in ministry can be invaluable. They listen, they pray, they can help problem solve, and they speak words of hope and peace into one’s hectic and demanding life.
Read Ecclesiastes 4:12 (The Message):
By yourself you’re unprotected.
With a friend you can face the worst.
Can you round up a third?
A three-stranded rope isn’t easily snapped.
Reflect: We could think of a rope or a piece of fabric here. The strands of thread in fabric are stronger, much stronger, when woven together. Their connectedness gives the cloth durability and beauty. A gorgeous tapestry comes to mind, one with vibrant colors and interesting patterns. Think of you and your friends in ministry forming this lovely, sturdy material that not only withstands the wear and tear of life, but also reflects the glory of God.
Take Action: What friend or friends has God given you to walk the path of ministry with? Who might you befriend this week and encourage in the Lord?
Take a moment to write a short note, make a phone call, or send an email or text to a ministry friend or someone new in your life. Say a prayer of thanks for this individual and ask God to bless her in her service.
In partnership,
Center for Leadership Excellence and the Commission on the Status and Role of Women
We are grateful to the Rev. Liz Hounshell, pastor of Zebulon UMC, for writing this month’s issue of Encouragements.