HOW TO RUN THE MARATHON WITHOUT STUMBLING

At our local June meeting for International Convention of Faith Ministers, Drs. Daniel and Eve Gualtieri spoke on Longevity in Ministry. Having been in the ministry for more than 35 years they have gained some insight into how to run the race without stumbling. Below are some of the highlights from their message to fellow ministers.

1. Keep your focus firmly fixed on Jesus. Don’t focus on your ministry. Don’t seek to have a large ministry solely for the purpose of your own ego. Seek to obey God. If Jesus built His earthly ministry by saying, “I only do those things I see the Father doing.” John 5:19, we should do the same.

2. Your relationship with God is your number 1 priority. After God comes your marriage, then your children and finally your ministry. If you do not keep this order of priority your ministry will fail, your marriage will fail, your children will fail.

3. Make your spouse your partner in ministry. Always keep them informed and involved. You should not be living separate lives. Your goals and vision should be single. As a couple you should be aiming at one goal.

4. Men should be their wife’s defender, champion and protector. Watch out for her that she doesn’t fall prey to the enemy’s lies. Keep communication open and continually encourage her and lift her up in your prayer time.

5. Wives should be their husband’s biggest fan. Be the one who always cheers him on.

6. Together determine boundaries for your children. Your children should not be out of control. Involve them in the ministry, but remember they are not your staff. Lead your children in devotions. Teach your children faith by your own example. Teach them how to act on faith by seeing you walk in faith. Remind them continually of the blessings of God and the great things he has done for your family.

7. Have fun as a family. Don’t let the cares of ministry weigh you down. Cast your cares on the Lord and laugh at the devil. Plan times of fun and recreation.