For Pastor's Wives

This week started with Ray and me going to a retreat for pastors and their wives. We were provided two nights lodging and meals as well as a full physical, all free of charge. This retreat was made available to pastors in Georgia as a help for them to get a good check up by a doctor and have time to be with their wives in a setting that would help them in their marriage. We had a wonderful time walking around and visiting with the other couples there. We spent a lot of time with a couple who was 76 years old and had been in the ministry for over 5o years. What an encouragement! All of their children and grandchildren are Christians and involved in a major way in the ministry of their own churches. They are raising a generation of believers who are in turn training their own children to follow after God.
As a pastor's wife I am often saddened to see other wives dislike their husband's calling to the ministry. While we were still in seminary 20 years ago, I couldn't believe how some women despised the life God had chosen for them. Some of those marriages have crumbled and left sadness behind them. God has given pastor's wives a great opportunity to bless our husbands and the people he serves. Why would we not want to do the best we can? Those of you who have the privilege of being a pastor's wife, I pray that you will look to God as you serve Him and not the people. People often disappoint, but God is always faithful. He will bless you as you have a good attitude that loves Him, your husband and His church.
The church is the bride of Christ. We can help the bride be ready for the great wedding by loving them, helping them, and not bringing them shame with our bad behavior or thoughts. If you aren't thinking right thoughts about your church family, then change your thinking. If you aren't honoring God with your words, then start speaking with wisdom. If you aren't serving the people in your congregation, then get to work. I have no intention of telling you that you should be playing the piano, teaching Sunday School, and organizing every women's event. I don't have any of those jobs. The most important job I have in serving our congregation is to love my husband and take care of him and our home. People will often expect you to be super woman, that isn't what it takes to be good pastor's wife. It takes godliness and being committed to your husband and his calling.
I have a burden to see pastors wives honoring God and following hard after Him. Take the time to invest in your husband and respect his position. Remember "how beautiful the feet are those that carry the gospel of Christ." No matter what your husband's job is, you can bless him and God by regarding him and his rank in life.