Ministry Wives Weekend is an annual gathering for Oklahoma Baptist ministry wives to be encouraged in connection with each other and in the truth of God’s Word. On Sept. 29-30, nearly 225 ministry wives met at Moore, First for wonderful food, sweet fellowship and honest conversations about building a resilient life.
The ministry wife may not only carry the needs of her church but also her family and husband’s needs. She may feel isolated and stressed because of her husband’s role and expectations others have for her. So, a weekend retreat talking about real issues often is a welcomed oasis:
“This weekend was such an encouragement to my heart. Thank you so much.”
“It was such a blessing to my soul. I love the women God placed around my table. Loved it!!”
And this ministry wife was particularly impacted by what Kathy Litton, the speaker, shared: “God has a purpose for my current trajectory. I will encounter people I never would have, had it not been for my experiences. Only I can decide how I pursue the trajectory God has me on.”
Litton, director of Planter Spouse Development at the Send Network and ministry wife to Ed Litton, pastor of Mobile, Ala., Redemption, shared many relevant and biblical truths about resilience in life and ministry and how to emotionally support your husband. Tara Matlock, a licensed counselor, led a session with practical tips on Gospel identity and healthy boundaries. Courtney and Doug Matlock led in beautiful worship.
In the post-COVID church, resilience is essential. It is defined as “able to stand strong and recover quickly from difficulties.” Within the context of local church ministry and leadership, resilience is, as Litton explained, “having strength to fulfill God’s calls even when it’s painful and difficult.”
The theme verse emphasizes God’s purpose in trials, “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Pet. 1:6-7). Ministry wives are strong women who love Jesus well.
Today, would you pray for your church’s ministry wife? Pray for her resilience. And, as the Lord leads, simply tell her, “Thank you.”
