Over the last few years, I’ve realized that having (and maintaining) strong friendships is a huge part of being a leader. We all need women we can count on… a listener, confidante, and prayer warrior. As a leader, it’s easy to feel alone, and this is a place where Satan loves to creep in and allow us to feel like we don’t have anyone on our side. Whether you’re married or single, having women in your life who will challenge, encourage, and push you towards Christ is necessary and so refreshing.
As leaders, we’re often called to deal with difficult situations. I’m so grateful for the women in my life that I can quickly send a text or email to, just asking them to pray. I may or may not be able to share details, but I know that they will pray for me and the situation. Sometimes, you need an outsider to hear what’s going on and be a voice of reason. Just this week, one of my closest friends let me know specifically how she is praying for me, and it was such an encouragement! These friends may come from a variety of backgrounds, ages, stages of life, careers, and locations, but be intentional to grow and cultivate these relationships as you mature as a leader.
As women’s ministry leaders, it’s crucial to make sure that you’re filling up and not just pouring out. Friendships are a wonderful way to be filled up! The women in the pictures above are some of the most important people in my life because of their friendship. We have walked through deep waters together, and they always point me to the Lord and his faithfulness. Their prayers and influence have been a major part of my growth as a leader and as a follower of Christ.
As I have read through the New Testament, I love how Paul often mentions the fact that he’s praying for his friends and ministry partners. I love when he writes this in Colossians:
“And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.”
I’m praying for you today, that the Lord will place some Godly women in your life as friends, and that he will grow and expand your existing friendships.
What’s one thing that the Lord has taught you through a friend lately?
Mary Margaret is an Event Project Coordinator on the Church Education Ministry team at Lifeway. She works alongside Chris Adams and coordinates training events for women’s ministry leaders like YOU Lead and the Women’s Ministry Forum. Mary Margaret has served several churches in the area of Girls Ministry and she recently completed a Master of Arts in Christian Education at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. In her spare time, she writes for Story of My Life – her personal blog.