Dad was committed to Mom; the folks were committed to the kids; our home was committed to the Lord; and our energies were committed to the church.
Paul D. Robbins

I asked a pastor's wife from Washington in what ways she contributed to her husband's ministry. "I'm the only person who can get him to church both happy and on time," she said with a twinkle in her eye. She's used that line to limit the number of church responsibilities she assumes. "I tell people that's such a big job that I have to let other people use their gifts in many of the other areas of ministry."

Family members contribute to the effectiveness of a ministry in a variety of ways. Even if they aren't directly involved in church programs, they still have a tremendous indirect impact. From the Leadership research, here are some ways family members help ministry.

A source of support. Many pastors testify to the sense of stability and support they gain from their families. "They encourage me; they believe in what I'm doing for ...