How to Thrive as a Pastor’s Wife
Baker Books, 2022
By Christine Hoover
WHO: Christine Hoover, author and host of the By Faith podcast.
SHE SAYS: “In the global church, God’s servants are abundant and are steadily plowing, planting, and reaping. You, I, and many women like us are counted among them.”
THE BIG IDEA: This book was written to help those married to church leaders embrace their influence and navigate their unique role with grace.
THE PROGRESSION: In Part 1, “You” the author emphasizes that the pastor’s wife who is reading the book is gifted, human and can cultivate the skill of knowing when to say yes and when to say no.
Part 2, “You and God,” explores the relationship God has with us. Part 3, “You and Your Husband,” is an honest look at the marriage relationship between the pastor and his wife. In Part 4, “You and Your Children,” the author talks about seasons of ministry with older and with younger kids.
“You and Your Friends” is Part 5, a deep dive into identifying and cultivating friendships. Part 6, “You and Your Church, deals with expectations, criticism, hurt and making disciples in the church. The book concludes with “You and Your Finish Line,” a discussion on enduring in ministry.
“’Pastor’s wife’ is a title, but it’s not an identity that defines who I am at the very core of my being.”