Working with women, on a one-to-one basis was not an easy thing for me to do,
in my early years of ministry. I found it far too "comfortable" to minister in larger settings, and felt as if I had more "control". Quickly, I found the Lord dealing with me on the issue of personal ministry, and my comfort zone. In all honesty, I had many, many comfort zone issues that had to be dealt with...one was soul-winning, yet another was intercession!
I always thought is was someone else's "calling or anointing", failing to realize that the fullness of God's purpose, as to His infilling me, was to "...become all things to all men, that I might by all means (at all costs and in any and every way) save some (by winning them to faith in Jesus Christ), (I Cor. 9:22 Amp). The dealings of the Lord were very strong on me then, as they continue on my life today, over 23+ years later.
Women in ministry already deal with many demands in our personal and home life, not to mention the ministry related needs in the body of Christ. How to keep that healthy balance and stay in peak condition, only come from yielding to the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit and His promptings. Keep God first in all things, at all times, and lose the so-called "juggle" or "rat-race-of-life" feelings! Lose the sluggish, fatigue and exhaustion of the many demands, by responding to the only "demand" that matters: that of answering the call of the Lord. Being ready to do whatever it takes to get the task at hand complete, and not having so many unfinished things stacked up relieves so much stress, in itself. You will always find there is time left over for "you" when you put Him first.
I am often asked for tips and shortcuts to how I handle the demands and responsibilities that are on my life as a woman, wife, mother, church leader and more. My role in the church is vital. My role in my home is LIFE! Maintaining my personal health, and overseeing that of my husband and large family, (eight adult children and 17 grand-children), is so important. Coordinating At-Risk Youth Outreaches, my work as an author, and so on keeps me in prayer, as well. All I know to say is what I know to be true: "I can do all things through Christ, Who strengthens me". Keeping my heart set on the Lord, my eyes fixed on His promise, my purpose aligned with His perfect will for me, keeps me above only and not beneath. With the Lord as your Guide, Director and Counselor, you can never fail1
