Hi there sweet friends! I wanted to share something really near and dear to my heart today… ministry. As many of you know Jonathan went into ministry shortly after we got married and I had to quickly learn the ropes of being a pastor’s wife. In ministry we are rewarded by having a front row seat of what God is doing not only in our lives but those around us. But can I be perfectly honest? Ministry is tough. I am sure many of you know this already but man no one warns you as you jump into it! This month DaySpring is encouraging us to return the blessing by shining the light on the ministry team in your life. So I ask you – who is serving you? Who may need a little encouragement? Often times we don’t think of those in ministry needing OUR encouragement because they must be so fed by their ministry! And while that is true MOST of the time, there are some days that we need to be uplifted too.
When DaySpring asked me to pray on who in my life needed that encouragement, I thought of someone that may be out of the box as a typical ministry leader. You see, this person isn’t a pastor, or a small group leader. She is someone who has an online ministry, she is encouraging those around her, she is sharing her own faith walk, and she is an incredible leader. Because of all these she often faces judgement and ridicule. As her friend I know this gets to her at times and I wanted to share just a small gift of encouragement to return the blessing and just let her know she is not alone.
Browsing the amazing selection on DaySpring I honestly had a tough time narrowing it down but when I came upon this beautiful necklace from Lisa Leonard I knew THIS IS IT!!! This is exactly what my friend needed, that friendly nudge to continue in her ministry even in the tough days, and to be strong and courageous with HIM by your side!!
I would love for you to join us in #returntheblessing – here is a bit from DaySpring
Ministry Appreciation Month was established in 1992 with the mission to uplift ministry team members such as pastors, youth ministers, worship leaders, church secretaries, Sunday school teachers, door greeters – the list goes on and on. And, by the way, isn’t that what we are called to do? In 1 Timothy 5:17, it states “The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.”
For many, October is a busy month. Moms and dads are making sure their kids get to this practice or that after-school function, while others are deep into their small group work, busy preparing their homes and hearts for the hospitality season ahead. And, while many of us want to do something for our ministry team to show our appreciation, year after year it seems we let the idea slip away from us and before we know it, October is over.
This year, DaySpring wants to make it easy for you to bless your ministry team members. See tips and ideas below, check out our free, shareable Ministry Appreciation Ecards and join us on social media to publicly give thanks for your mentor. Join us as we #ReturnTheBlessing and shed some light on those who work tirelessly to support, love and help others grow in their faith.
I wanted to share with you some of the other gifts that I love to #returntheblessing
ESV Journaling Bible, Interleaved Edition – Autumn Song
Pray Without Ceasing – Jumbo Mug
xox this day my friends xox Shanna Noel
