I’ve never forgotten how it felt to be a new women’s ministry leader.

I was overwhelmed, scared, and certain God had made a mistake.

Thankfully He provided several older women that prayed for me and coached me through those first few years.

I quickly learned it’s beneficial to listen to the godly wisdom of those who are a bit further down the path. 

If you’re a new women’s ministry leader, I’d like to speak to you today from a little further down the path.  

If you’re a seasoned leader, I’d love it if you’d read through the list and then share YOUR best advice in the comments below.

New women’s ministry leader, if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, I want to reassure you that it is perfectly normal and quite expected. If you weren’t, I’d be worried.

I wish I could sit across the table from you, offer you a cup of hot coffee or tea, and hold your hand as I prayed for wisdom, direction, and God’s blessings on your ministry.

Since few of you live in North Carolina, this post will have to do.

Advice for a New Women’s Ministry Leader

1. Make everything a matter of prayer.

I know how tempting it can be just to go ahead and do something because we feel equipped to do it. However, I find if I don’t keep myself in constant check from the Lord, I get ahead of Him, requiring me to back up and seek forgiveness.

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. James 1:5

2. Stay grounded in the Word of God.

You’re going to be so busy that it will be tempting to skip your quiet time, but I beg you not to do so! There’s a reason Jesus is called the bread of life and living water. He sustains us. Not only will God’s Word anchor your soul, but it will give you the direction needed to lead your ministry well.

I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without me. John 15:5

3. Seek out a Godly mentor.

There will be times that you will need the advice of an older, wiser woman. Don’t wait for a crisis to seek her out! Build that relationship now and reap the blessings of her prayers and wisdom.

Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future. Proverbs 19:20

4. Model what you want to see.

If you want your women to participate in Bible study, then you need to participate in Bible study. If you want your women to take notes at the retreat, then take notes. If you want your women to stay off their phones and focus on the task at hand, then be the first to set down your phone. Your women and your team members are watching. Set a good example.

Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12

5. Assemble a team.

Ministry is a LOT of work. Prayerfully seek out other women that God has given a heart for women’s ministry to serve alongside you. Not only will you be able to share the workload, but you’ll receive the blessing of being a part of the body of Christ.

For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them… Romans 12:4-6a

6. Delegate.

I know it’s often easiest to do it all yourself. Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. You may be taking over a task that God has designed for someone else.

See Romans 12:4-6a above.

Dear one, I know there are days it will be easier to give up than to press on. I pray you’ll hang in there! I’m here to help in any way I can.

Remember, God has called you to serve in this position, and He will always provide what you need, in His timing.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

You may also want to read:
How to Start or Rebuild a Women’s Ministry
8 Reasons to Develop a Strong Women’s Ministry Team
8 Steps to Take After a Ministry Fail
10 Tips for Surviving a Crazy Women’s Ministry Week
11 Times Savers for Busy Women’s Ministry Leaders
The Ultimate Women’s Ministry Event Planning List

One year ago: How to Find Valuable Women’s Ministry Training
Two years ago: Gospel Mentoring: When Mentoring is a Culture, Not a Program
Three years ago: 5 Keys to Nurturing Your Team
Four years ago: The Beauty of Events at Other Churches
Five years ago: How to Love Your Neighbor (without being weird)
Six years ago: Mission Project: Bless Them With Band-Aids