Wednesday, January 30, 2013

The Church Planting Wife

For almost seventeen years I have been "Kelly's wife".  For eleven years I have been "Zachary's, Noah's, Joshua's or AnnaFaith's Mom".  I have been "Vycki's Daughter", "Robbie, Matt and Jon's sister".  I have been junior high teacher, elementary teacher, Bible Study teacher.  I have been called MANY things and held many titles. 

This year, I will add one that will change me.  It is certainly the title that I am the most afraid of having, but at the same time, the one I am the most afraid of running from.  This year, I will become "The Church Planting Wife".

I am walking beside my partner and best friend as we follow God's call on our life to be full-time Church Planters.  Kelly and I will soon be settling into Northern Colorado to make our new home and most importantly to make disciples for Jesus.

When I was recently given the opportunity to join a book launch team for a book by a fellow church planting wife, I jump on board.  I was eager to read what someone a few years ahead of me had to say about the journey I was beginning.  Little did I know that I would open a book and read about my very own heart written by someone else!

Christine Hoover has become vulnerable and dug deep into places many of us don't want to go.  She has revealed frustrations, fears, sin, restoration, recovery and praise all in a few chapters.  Her interviews with other wives helped me to know I am not alone and most importantly, that I AM NORMAL!!  What a relief! 

I found myself wishing many times that I had this book years ago.  I believe it is helpful to wives serving in all areas of ministry.  Christine gently guides you through a heart "check-up".  Every nook and cranny of my heart has had a makeover!  I love how it is full of scripture, truth and real-life stories. 

The Church Planting Wife will be a book that is highlighted, post-it noted, wrinkled and worn in my collection.  If you are looking for encouragement...If you are looking for ways to encourage your husband...If you are needing a friend...If you are struggling in ministry..If you need a good read...please pick up a copy if this book.  You will be blessed!

I feel more ready to take on my new title.  I understand that our journey will be long and hard, but full of surprise and blessing.  We leave for our first trip to our future home on February 14th!  I will keep you posted on how things go, but in the meantime, be encouraged today.  God has a plan for you!  He desires to use you where you are.  Look for opportunities today to make disciples and love like Jesus does!

 
"I'm linking up with Christine over at Grace Covers Me today as she releases her book, The Church Planting Wife: Help and Hope for Her Heart, and collects heart stories from church planting and ministry wives. Join us?"