Women of Standard Nov 2013 | Page 12

Personal Development | Vision Manifestation Pastor's Wives Column A Thankful Heart by: Lady Emilie Robinson Helping YOU to GET Through the SCHOOL YEAR By: Tanya Taylor Youth, teens and college students, you are back in school and your self-esteem is a huge indicator of how you will do throughout the school year. You are incredible and can do whatever you put your mind to do. Therefore, make creative and wise choices so you will not suffer the consequences later. Don’t just build a dream, but make it a reality. Commit your focus to God; believe in yourself, challenge yourself and go after it even when the challenge seems impossible. Look your fears in the eyes and say, “You will not win, but I will overcome everything!” Positive Affirmations for Success throughout the Year (In all these instances, seek help from God, your parents and any trusted authoritative figure.) If there’s a subject I can’t understand: I will not give up because I fail a test or subject. 12 W O M E N O F S T A N D A R D . O R G | ­ I will work hard and not quit. I understand this can be a stepping stone when I am faced with bigger challenges in life. I can take this lesson and learn from it. If I’m being bullied and having suicidal thoughts: I will not live my life in fear and will love myself. There is no problem greater than God; therefore, I place my life in His hands, not my own. If I’m facing peer pressure: In all things I will follow Christ. I am my own individual, and when people truly care about me, they aren’t going to pressure me into doing something that is wrong or not right for me. I will be a leader and not a follower. Finally, enjoy your youth, yet learn as much as you can. Remember there is nothing you can’t do without the help of the Lord (Philippians 4:13) and those He has placed in your life. NOVEMBER 2013 Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful for all the excellent wonders operating in a person’s life, including being thankful for individuals such as pastors and pastors’ wives. This column is to acknowledge the challenges a pastor’s wife may face and give her a voice. A pastor will often receive affection from many whom he serves, expressing a thankful heart for his work in the ministry, in their lives, and the impact in the worldwide kingdom of God. I’ve learned there are an extreme high percentage of pastors’ wives who don’t experience others having a thankful heart towards them. They are often forgotten despite being called alongside her husband to serve. Below are some exposure signs of this heart condition: • The importance of her role in the body of Christ is not acknowledged • Ignored and isolated by her parishioners • Not supported in her Kingdom efforts The good news is this behavior can be corrected with God’s understanding by exposing it, and changing the behavior. In Ephesians 1:15-16, Paul expresses the need to give thanks to others who have faith in the Lord and who express love toward all the saints. Another scripture to reflect on is Philippians 4:16-19 which describes the Philippians being thankful for Paul by sending contributions to meet his needs. In verse 19, Paul reveals God’s special promise for this continuous love offering, “…My God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” If you desire to have all your needs met according to God’s riches then you must take care of all those who lead you. Let’s be empowered with these Heart Expressions showing your thanksgiving towards your pastor’s wife. • Heart Expressions • Pray for her by name and her family • Prepare food for her and the family, especially on days of worship services • Send her and the Pastor on an all-expense paid vacation for a refreshing and replenishing • Offer to help her with any duties or chores • Sow a financial seed directly into her life • Support her efforts and programs in the ministry spirituall