Eph 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
Gal. 1:10 For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.
I love aquariums. They are my favorite part of any zoo. For years I kept one in my church office that made me smile just when I needed it! Currently I have a small tank with blue nano shrimp and live plants that has been fun to nurture. Aquariums can be fun UNLESS you feel like you live in one!
One of the challenges of a ministry marriage can be the public nature of your everyday lives and relationship. Wherever you are, it seems eyes are watching in a different way than they might for other people, especially if you live in a smaller community like we did. People have their expectations for what you should be as a pastor or a pastor’s wife. Sometimes that is reasonable. Other times not so much
If I can’t let my wife be who she is, then how can I ask the church to do that?
The core challenge is that fishbowl expectations squeeze you into someone else’s mold. Everyone has hopes for their relationship with you. It doesn’t always feel safe to be yourself. We want the church to grow. We want people to like us. Our head knows not everyone will; but our hearts still want to try.
Continue reading Authenticity in Marriage & Ministry
The Pastor's Life 