Enjoy fresh and relevant content from 'The Journal', a publication specifically for pastoral spouses, on the Ministry Spouses Podcast. This is a service of the General Conference Ministerial Spouses Association.
The Journal for Ministry Spouses

Do you ever feel lonely—but what if the One who made you promises to be with you all the time? This kids' article teaches that God will never leave you and offers fun ways to remember His loving presence and share it with others.

What does it really mean to be a woman of valor-and how can courage and grace shape a woman's unique journey through family, service, and self‑discovery? Hannele Ottschofski invites women to embrace their own paths, finding worth not in perfection or recognition but in faithful service, personal growth, and equal partnership.

In this deeply personal reflection, Heather-Dawn Small shares her long journey through depression, grief, and healing, reminding readers that recovery often comes slowly and requires courage, support, and patience. Where can hope be found when joy feels distant—and how does God gently restore it over time?

We often know what healthy self-care looks like—yet choosing it can feel inconvenient, uncomfortable, or even unappealing. What if lasting motivation comes not from willpower alone, but from purpose, integrity, and trusting God to help us live out the changes we long to make?

Estrangement from adult children is one of the deepest heartaches for parents, especially in ministry, but even in this sorrow, God offers hope. How can we trust in God's unfailing love, hold space for reconciliation, and find peace while we wait for a lost child to return?

Loneliness and discouragement are familiar companions for many ministerial spouses, yet God's unwavering love gently upholds us through every season. How can resting in faith, strengthening marriage, and remembering our calling help transform isolation into renewed joy and purpose?

Loneliness is a normal human experience, especially for ministry families who face frequent change and separation—but healthy friendships can transform isolation into belonging. How can we gently notice lonely moments, reach out with intention, and build life-giving friendships that bless both ourselves and others?

Surrounded by people yet aching with isolation, many pastors and ministry families quietly struggle with loneliness. What causes this hidden epidemic, how does it affect health and faith, and what practical, biblical steps can help restore connection and wholeness?

Want to start a chain of happiness? Discover how a simple smile or act of kindness can spread joy, and how small good deeds can make a big difference in the world around you!

Jesus used a healed demoniac's story to bring transformation to an entire region. What can your personal testimony do when you share how God has worked in your life?

What seemed like a failed visit turned into a life-changing moment. A simple prayer and steadfast faith led to an unexpected conversion and baptism, proving that with God, all things are possible.

Libna Arroyo shares the emotional journey of navigating her husband's calling to military chaplaincy, challenging her faith and trust in God's plan.

How can we effectively pass on our faith to the next generation? By pointing them to Jesus, empowering them as leaders, and providing the tools to make wise choices, we can inspire young people to live a life of faith and leadership.

Parents are the key influencers in shaping their children's dietary habits. By setting a strong example and creating a health-conscious home environment, they can instill lifelong habits that promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Are we building lasting disciples or just momentary believers? This article challenges churches to shift from event-based evangelism to intentional, lifelong disciple-making modeled after Christ's own example.

Can pastors and their spouses truly thrive without close friendships? This candid reflection explores the emotional cost of isolation in ministry and reveals how authentic relationships—inside and outside the church—are essential for spiritual and personal well-being.

What if raising kind, compassionate kids could transform not only their lives but the world around them? How small acts of love—taught and modeled at home—can help children grow into joyful, Christ-centered caregivers who reflect God's character.

What does it truly mean to pass the torch in ministry? In this heartfelt editorial, Aurora Canals reflects on the sacred responsibility ministerial spouses carry—to mentor, support, and spiritually prepare the next generation for faithful service.

What if delays are actually part of God's perfect plan? Discover how trusting His timing can turn setbacks into setups for something greater.

Want to help kids discover how blessed they truly are? Dive into the Beatitudes with hands-on activities that show children they're blessed to bless others!

Do you worry too much? You're not alone—but Jesus is always near. Discover how His presence and promises offer peace that outweighs every anxious thought.

What if first-aid wasn't just for cuts and scrapes? Discover three essential kits—physical, emotional, and spiritual—to help you face life's everyday emergencies with strength and care.

What does it truly mean to be a "living sacrifice"? Explore Romans 12:1 in a fresh light and discover how daily surrender and worship can transform every moment into an altar of praise.

Feeling overwhelmed? Discover simple, practical ways to manage stress—from planners and prayer to singing and surrendering your burdens to Jesus.

Can we truly find peace in a world full of fear and uncertainty? Learn how surrendering to God brings calm, confidence, and hope even through life's hardest transitions.

How do children picture God—and are we helping or hurting that image? Discover how to nurture spiritually secure kids by showing them the God who is love, not fear.

Want to make the Bible come alive for kids? Discover creative ways for young explorers to dive into God's Word, one verse at a time, with fun, crafts, and reflection!

In a world full of chaos, where do we find true peace? Discover how trusting our heavenly Father brings strength, guidance, and calm in life's fiercest battles.

How can your church move beyond its walls and truly impact the community? Explore five practical steps to build trust, meet real needs, and live out the gospel.

Can your church truly hear the silent cries of those drifting away? Discover how intentional care, reconciliation, and prayerful nurture can transform hearts and bring members home.

Can just one minute of love and attention make a difference? Learn simple, daily ways to build stronger bonds with your family and nurture joy, kindness, and connection.

Are you sitting too much? Discover why standing up and moving more can boost your health, mood, and focus — and how small changes make a big difference.

What simple acts of kindness could become your personal ministry? Discover how finding your niche can turn everyday moments into opportunities to share Jesus' love.

What if involving children and teens could bring joy, connection, and new growth to your church? Discover creative ways to engage young hearts in worship, prayer, and service.

How can teamwork between pastoral couples transform ministry? What if influence isn't about the pulpit, but quiet acts of service that inspire others?

This article shares lessons from Noah's story, focusing on kindness, teamwork, and God's care for both people and animals. It encourages activities like building a boat, designing a zoo, and reflecting on God's promises.

This author reflects on the fragility of life, inspired by a personal loss, and draws parallels with Paul the apostle's preparation for his eventual death. Paul's legacy teaches the importance of living a life of faith and perseverance, always fighting the good fight for Christ and eagerly awaiting His return.

Bullying is a serious issue that can occur in unexpected places like church, affecting children both physically and emotionally. To address this, adults must educate kids about bullying, encourage open communication, and model kindness to create a safe environment.

To protect children in our communities, it's essential to intervene when witnessing abuse, screen volunteers thoroughly, and ensure adequate supervision during all activities. By implementing safety measures like the "Two-Adult Rule" and maintaining visibility in all areas, we create safer environments for children in schools and churches.

This article discusses the importance of recognizing and addressing abuse in the church and provides guidance for pastoral spouses on how to support victims. It emphasizes compassion, understanding, and the need for proper resources and reporting.

This article explains how traumatic experiences, both past and suppressed, can affect a person's physical and emotional health, often through triggers that cause unexpected reactions. It emphasizes the importance of proper treatment, self-care strategies, and support to aid recovery from trauma.

Abuse can be hard to identify, especially for those raised in abusive environments. It's crucial to recognize signs of abuse and provide support by referring victims to professionals, offering compassion, and raising awareness through church initiatives like Adventist's enditnow® campaign.

This article discusses how to support someone who has experienced abuse, focusing on listening, offering healing messages, and empowering them to make their own choices for recovery. It highlights the importance of comfort, prayer, and helping them regain joy and healing through loving actions and faith.

This editorial addresses sexual, emotional, and spiritual abuse, highlighting their impact and the healing offered through God's word. It emphasizes that survivors should seek help, trust in God's healing, and know their worth.

Anxiety can feel overwhelming, but like David in Psalm 42, we can find strength and hope in God's promises. What antidote can transform our anxiety into peace and praise, even in the darkest times?

How can we uncover the treasures hidden within Jesus' parables? This article offers creative activities, thoughtful questions, and family discussions to deepen your understanding and appreciation of these timeless stories.

How can we find happiness in the face of life's challenges? The inspiring story of a 92-year-old woman who, despite her struggles, chooses gratitude and positivity each day reminds us that happiness is a decision we can make at any age.

As the pressures of ministry weigh heavily on pastors and their spouses, how can couples find balance and renewal amidst demanding schedules? This article emphasizes the importance of allowing space for rejuvenation, both individually and as a couple, to prevent burnout and strengthen their relationship.

How can we teach our children the true spirit of Christmas beyond gifts and parties? This article encourages families to reflect on the importance of giving gifts to Jesus through acts of kindness and gratitude, using a parable to illustrate how often we forget to honor Him during the holiday season.

Have you ever struggled to recognize someone's voice on the phone, and what does that reveal about your relationship? This article explores how our connection with God parallels voice recognition, emphasizing the importance of quieting the noise around us to truly hear and respond to His voice.

Reflecting on the journey of life, exploring how each developmental stage shapes our identities and purpose. How can understanding these metaphors enhance our spiritual walk and help us guide the next generation in their journeys?