Recently I have read a book called: “One with a Shepherd” written by Mary Somerville.
I would categorize the book in the Women’s ministry section since the book gives encouragement to those women who are married to a pastor and have to deal with the many issues that a pastor’s wife has to face such as being an example, loneliness, hospitality, discipling, counseling etc.
The book wants to give a better understanding of the challenges awaiting the woman married to a pastor. It starts by defining what the role of women is in general and then going on more specifically talking about the role of a pastor’s wife. The pastor’s wife must be an example and a supporter to her husband.
There are many topics discussed but the three major areas of discussion are:
- How to face ministry from an emotional prospective: loneliness, pride issues, being one with our spouse,
- How to face ministry practically: being an example in marriage and as a mom, being hospitable, managing the money.
- Ministry in relation to others: discipling and counseling.
She concludes the book by reminding us that being a pastor’s wife is a place of honor. Even if there are many challenges the outcome is to see people’s lives changed to the glory of God. It is an honor to support a man in this great task and it is an honor to walk in the path that the Lord has assigned for us bringing Him glory.
This book greatly encouraged me to hold on to God even in the midst of the many challenges. It was good to be reminded how much this role is a place of honor even if at times, when among difficulties, it may not seem so. A practical lesson was the one of making disciples and training them in doing some of the things I’ll do that way ministry is not as overwhelming as it could be.
I was also encouraged on the matter of loneliness and not to be afraid to go out and make friends. One other encouragement was about raising kids and the challenges that come with it as they grow. The encouragement was not to get discouraged but keep the Word of God at the center of our lives.
I really liked this book. Mrs. Somerville did a great job in presenting all the themes without being boring but talking from her heart and personal experience.
I would certainly recommend this book to every woman married to a man who is involved in some kind of ministry because it is a great encouragement of how to live life when God calls our husbands to a position that is in the public’s eye.
