Tuesday, May 21, 2019

How to Thrive as a Single Officer/Minister Guest Post by Captain Linda McCormick

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I have been an officer for almost 8 years now. It is a job I absolutely love! This life as a single officer comes with a plethora of challenges, but in those 8 years, I have found some things that help keep me sane, enthusiastic, and filled with joy. These practices help me to thrive when I am in the challenges every day ministry.

1. Your happiness and joy MUST come from a strong relationship with God! He MUST be in the middle of your singleness.

2. I think as a single officer you need strong connections outside the Army world. It is not healthy to only have all your friends in the Salvation Army. You need people you can trust outside this bubble that you can share your frustrations with and your joys with. You also need to find people INSIDE the Army you can trust to share your appointment frustrations and joys with that has no power to affect the status of your appointment.

3. You need to find a Bible study outside what you provide for your people in order for you to grow and be filled, especially when you are pouring out day in and day out.

4. Make time for yourself. Whether it is reading, watching a movie at the theatre or going for a walk. These things help break the constant barrage of information and people you are dealing with.

5. Get a pet (if you like animals). Animals are great because you can come home to them at night, and love them. We need the unconditionally love of animals sometimes, and it will make your heart lighter at the end of the day.

6. Try to keep your house clean, this alleviates a lot of stress is you can walk into a clean and organized home.

7. Finally and MOST importantly, remember why you do this very difficult job! Re-read your covenant often for it is God you serve, not man. 

When a single officer has to be at every 1 and 2 star event and sometimes regional events it is extremely stressful and you can get caught up in the weight of everyone always pulling at your time. Read the covenant, remember WHO called you and why. He is the one who fills you with joy and purpose.

There is more I could say, but I will close with this: You have been called by Him. He will provide a spouse if that is in HIS plans, but be content in your singleness, and do the best you can in your appointment and find joy in your singleness. Because if you don't, there is only trouble, frustration, and disappointment in the future. Rely on Him and He will be faithful.

Blessings from a fellow single officer who is thriving.

Captain Linda McCormick