Monday Mythbuster #4
- Bridgette Tomlin
- Mar 31
- 2 min read
Happy Monday! We are coming on strong again today with another Ministry Mythbuster for Ministry Wives!
Myth #4: All ministry wives should be comfortable in front of others.
There’s a misguided belief that, especially in the 21st century, all ministry wives should be bound for the platform, equipping herself for pulpit or music ministry. In many ways, and in many regions of North America, stereotypical assumptions that the pastor’s wife should be able to sing and play the piano have been given a rest. But it seems that baton was passed on to the assumption that today’s ministry wife should be “co” whatever her minister husband has been called to do. Co-pastor. Co-teacher. Co-coach. Co-fill-in-the-blank.
But let’s get back to scripture as in 1 Corinthians 12 and Romans 12, the apostle Paul gave explicit teaching to the growing Early Church on the diversity of spiritual gifts. While there’s room for uncomfortable growth and a stretching that God desires to do in each individual, launching her into faith-driven effectiveness, not all gifts are designed for all believers, including those called to ministry alongside her husband. Some are driven to lead from behind the scenes. Others have been empowered to lead out front. But all have been given divinely designed spiritual gifts.
"Because of the cultural expectations for pastor’s wives, some of them may have stepped into certain roles, not because they are called to fill them, but to suffice the saints or in order to be valued," Pastor Bryan Jarrett shared in a recent Let's Talk with Sanctuary podcast episode. He and wife Haley spoke openly with our listeners about the challenges the couple has faced due to Haley's awareness: she's not designed for the platform.
So, let’s lean into that conversation today. What areas have you felt forced into leading long-term out of need or misguided expectations when you genuinely felt better equipped to lead elsewhere?
Let’s talk about God’s purposeful gift distribution. Share your experience in the comments below.
Bonus Resources:
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