Resource Toolkit
2. Soul Care
This is part 2 in a series:
“How do I determine what Women’s Ministries should focus on this year?”
As a reminder, our ministries need to be all about making disciples. How that looks in each church is as varied as a kaleidoscope. There are some key, relevant elements however, that surface in every church.
A few months ago, we focused on the first key element that makes for successful women’s ministries - relationship focused. Women’s ministries that offer many opportunities for women to connect with each other are thriving. The more relational entry points, the better. God uses people to introduce others to himself. As we create good environments for relationships to develop, we see women connecting with each other and spurring each other on to love and good deeds. Hebrews 10:24,25
Ministries that focus on soul care also result in quality disciple making. In a cross Canada survey I conducted a couple of years ago, I discovered that the top issue most women face is that of finding balance. Women are stretched to the max these days with all that falls on their plates. The idea of caring for their own souls in the midst of family and work demands is often the last priority on their to - do lists. They want to fit God in, but often can’t seem to find time or know how to do it. Yet, without a focus on their souls, how will they grow to the full potential Christ has for them?
Women’s ministries that creatively plan ways for women to experience authentic growth, nurturing a woman’s soul, will reap huge dividends. Growth takes place as we learn and apply God’s Word. Growth takes place as we pray. Growth takes place as we use the tracks of spiritual disciplines to get us to our destination of Christ likeness. Our souls are tended as we observe Sabbath. When we understand the role of the Holy Spirit, we know that our growth is not left up to us alone. The Holy Spirit indwells us and we have all the power we need for life and godliness. (2 Timothy 1) As women learn to walk in obedience, they will know God. Colossians 1:9-11.
So, how do we invite our women to experience and enjoy these things?
One way is retreats. Retreats are a great way to jump start women to a deeper understanding of themselves and God. The extended time apart from all their responsibilities creates a space for women to give full attention to their souls; to eliminate or at least lessen the noise of life so that they can hear what’s really going on and address it. The interaction with God’s word through a speaker and discussion with each other, forms the foundation of the weekend. Every church that holds a retreat has positive feedback in the form of women newly committed to walk as Jesus walked. The real challenge is the sustainability of any commitment that is made. Choosing one area to focus on through the year, results in strong character growth.
Bible studies that allow us to dig deeper and learn from each other get us feasting on God and we can’t help but grow. Scripture gives women the critical foundation upon which everything else is measured. Learn it, love it and live it! We are amply supplied in Canada with good study resources. Sharing with other churches keep costs down.
Mentoring relationships are ideal places for soul care. As we honestly filter life through those more spiritually mature than us, and as we observe the reality of our mentor’s life, our souls flourish. The older I get, the more convinced I am that mentoring is a crucial and key ingredient in speeding the growth process in people. There is no replacement for one on one love, care and modeling in godly responses and life navigation. Though the numbers may not be high, mentoring has more potential for greater overall impact in making mature followers of Christ than any other method. Just ask anybody what has impacted them the most in their Christian walk. Chances are, you’ll hear a name, not a program or sermon.
What creative ways is your group encouraging soul care amongst your women? When we combine soul care with intentional relationships, we have a powerful combination to make a disciple who will make a disciple!