In the quiet moments between worship services, I often reflect on the people with whom I share ministry. Each person brings something unique, and through their lives —whether by word or deed —I’ve learned profound lessons about life, faith, and love.
What stands out to me is how these differences in personality and approach have been critical to my growth in faith and ministry.
Take Brother Joel, for example. He is a man of unwavering conviction, but his patience and steadfastness continually astound me. I approach situations urgently, sometimes rushing to solve problems or provide answers. Brother Joel, on the other hand, waits. He believes in allowing situations to unfold, trusting that God’s timing is always better than ours.
This has taught me the beauty of stillness in ministry, the need to listen longer, pray with patience and trust that not everything requires immediate action. His presence has slowed me down in the best way, teaching me that faith isn’t always about doing but often about being.
Then there’s Sister Precious, whose name is more than fitting. Precious carries a warmth that lights up a room, and people are drawn to her effortlessly. Precious is an open book where I sometimes wrestle with vulnerability and openness, sharing her joys, fears, and struggles without hesitation.
Her willingness to embrace her imperfections has shown me what love looks like in its most authentic form. She has taught me that love in ministry isn’t about having all the answers but offering a listening ear and a compassionate heart, even when we feel broken.
Her transparency has helped me tear down walls within myself, reminding me that vulnerability breeds connection, not weakness.
Brother Simeon, another dear companion in ministry, is a man of profound knowledge. Where I might focus on relational ministry, Simeon dives headfirst into faith’s intellectual and doctrinal aspects. His sharp mind and rigorous study challenge me to think deeper and push beyond the surface.
Our discussions often lead me to question my assumptions and dig deeper into scripture. Simeon’s approach reminds me that ministry is also about the pursuit of truth and that loving God with all our minds is just as crucial as loving Him with our hearts.
While I used to think of faith as primarily relational, He has expanded my view to see it as a delicate dance between heart, soul, and mind.
Perhaps the most profound lesson I’ve learned is from Sister Deborah, who approaches life and ministry with a quiet, unspoken strength, unlike me. Deborah does not speak often in meetings or commands attention, but when she does speak, her words carry weight. I’ve always been more vocal and prone to express my thoughts and opinions.
But Deborah has taught me that sometimes the most profound impact comes from a quiet presence, a listening heart, and well-timed words. She embodies the wisdom found in Proverbs 17:27: “The one who knows uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.” Esther’s quiet faith reminds me that leadership is not always loud but is sometimes found in the silence between words.
These people, Joel, Precious, Simeon, and Deborah, are different from me. Yet, their influence has been transformative. Joel’s patience tempers my urgency. Precious’s vulnerability draws me out of my guardedness. Simeon’s intellect challenges my relational approach. Deborah’s quiet strength reminds me that there’s power in stillness.
Each of these individuals has become a mirror, reflecting aspects of faith, life, and love that I needed to see but hadn’t known how to recognize within myself. Their influence is a testament to companions’ power in our personal growth.
Through them, I’ve learned that ministry isn’t just about what I can give to others and what others give to me. Our differences—our personalities, strengths, and even weaknesses—are the very things that sharpen and refine us as we seek to walk more faithfully with God.
These companions have shaped my understanding of what it means to serve, love, and lead, and I am grateful for how their lives continue to draw me closer to Christ. This story highlights how these individuals, with their distinct qualities, have influenced my growth in faith and ministry. Each offers lessons that complement my strengths and tendencies.