It seems, in ministry, the lines separating work and life are blurred beyond providing any barrier between them.
Are these people my friends or just church members?
Will our teammates be pals or mere co-workers?
What are work hours (because it sure feels like it’s 24/7)?
Should we tap into our salary for necessary ministry expenses?
When am I a pastor’s wife and when am I just a wife?
Is my husband’s office church or home? Both?
When/how often should we open up our home?
Our work is our life, and our life is our work. We wouldn’t have it any other way. This calling affects nearly every minute of every day. The daily lives of our children are a direct result of this path we’ve chosen to take in service to the Lord—the work we’ve chosen to do. It can be confusing and exhausting. It can send us reeling just as often as it causes us to rejoice.
We must stay connected to the Life Giver. He breathes into us when we’re gasping and fills us with joy in this work when we’re unable to find it among the mess of everyday ministry. We must lean into His goodness, trust in His promises, and be sensitive to the stirrings of the Spirit which tell us to rest.
And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
Colossians 3:23-24
How does your work affect your family and daily life?
Talk to me in the comment section below!
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I so hear you sister! Working in a church I feel many of the same feelings. I’m in the 33 spot this week.
God bless you for your ministry, Tara!
I understand this so much…and can expand on it, a little.
My best job was being a mercenary, fighting to protect folks that the civilized world thought expendable, in places that will never have a Club Med.
My life was my work.
And so, if called for, was my death. A lot of my brothers bought that ticket.
https://blessed-are-the-pure-of-heart.blogspot.com/2017/09/your-dying-spouse-360-faith-and-hope.html
Wow, I can’t even imagine!
I’m in Christian work too and I agree, it is hard to know where the line is sometimes. It is important to stay connected to God and remember that everything we do is for him.
Yes, everything is for Him! And He is already pleased with us. I love how that thought can both motivate us to get going or rest in Him.
Great post – and reminder. I know our pastors here at home feel the same way. Being in full-time ministry of any kind comes with those unique challenges but, I think, for the pastor/missionary who leads the work…most of us really do not understand the 24/7 commitment. I need to pray often for my pastor – and remind him how much I appreciate all he does. Thanks for sharing – and for all your do there in your work!
I’m so encouraged that God would use this post to motivate you to pray for your pastor. God is good!
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