A Church Leader’s Marriage | Watermark Resources

On this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, Adam interviews John and Pam McGee about their leadership, marriage, and ministry. Listen in for practical advice about what it takes to be faithful both at home and in the church. For show notes and more, visit https://www.watermarkresources.com/clp/8114-a-leaders-marriage

Episode Summary

Episode Highlights:

Leaders are often great at setting goals for their ministry or church, but need to also be diligent to set goals in their marriage. Whether it is a goal for the next 5 years, next 6 months, or next 30 days, have something in your marriage you are committing to achieving together as a team.
As simple as it may seem, commit to a regularly scheduled date night. Make it incredibly intentional and generous. This time should not just for a few hours, but a sizable amount of time dedicated to investing relationally. Put away phones, talk of work, conflict resolution for a while, and just focus on growing together with your spouse.
If you are a spouse that is regularly dreaming about elaborate ideas or passions, understand that your spouse may not be wired that way. Be thoughtful and slow to speak your ideas. If your are a spouse less inclined to think big, remember to listen before critiquing or questioning your spouse's big ideas.
Remember that marriage is a full-length mirror that helps you see who you really are. Your spouse is a gift that will point you to your own flaws, but also highlight the way the Lord has made you.
Be aware of the need to protect time with your spouse and family. Make sure that your marriage remains a priority, even in the busy seasons of work and ministry. Set expectations for busy times of the year ahead of time, and pre-determine how you are going to still carve out time.
Consider giving your spouse the ability to have a trump card and make the final call on your work schedule. Allowing your spouse to make the call on your work hours will help safeguard your time together.
When discussing your ministry, remember to give your spouse credit for the role they have in seeing your ministry accomplished. Use "we" rather than "I", "our" rather than "mine", etc.
Remember that people are not just listening to you as a leader. They are also watching you. Consider how your react to your spouse with body language and talk to your spouse in public. The way you interact should communicate your love and respect for one another.
There is a going to be a day when you retire from work or retire from ministry. However, at that point, you will not retire from marriage. Keep in mind that at the end of the day and the end of your career, you will still need to invest in your marriage.