This post is part of a series celebrating our pastors’ wives — godly women who play the role of shepherdess in our lives, taking care of our shepherds and becoming like second mothers to so many of us. Today we’re talking to Sis. Sheila Carrington, pastor’s wife at Farming United Pentecostal Church in Farmington, NM, and district superintendent’s wife of the Texico District of the UPCI.
1. Sis. Carrington, thank you for taking the time to share with our readers today! First, where are you a pastor’s wife, and how long have you been there?
Farmington, NM, United Pentecostal Church for 21-1/2 years.
2. What are some things you love about being a pastor’s wife?
I love working alongside my husband and being involved in the kingdom of God. It is rewarding to watch people grow in their walk with God.
3. Growing up, what did you imagine yourself doing with your life? Would you ever have imagined yourself being a pastor’s wife?
I knew early on there was a special call on my life, but I did not know for sure where it would take me. I was willing to go where God wanted me to go.
4. What is your favorite Bible scripture?
Psalm 34:15: “The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry.”
5. What are some nuggets of wisdom you’d love to share with Apostolic young women?
Guard your heart by guarding your tongue. It’s so easy to say things, but always remember once the words are spoken they can never be retrieved. Be a trustworthy friend that holds another’s confidence and only takes it to the Lord.
6. What one piece of advice would you pass on to a new pastor’s wife?
Do the best you can, but at the end of the day, the most important One to please is God. People are fickle; God is faithful.
7. Are there any successes, struggles, or defeats you’ve faced as a pastor’s wife that you feel our readers could learn from?
We have experienced some very difficult times, but through those times we learned to hold on and trust in God. He has proven faithful even when it seemed the heavens were brass. Sometimes we can’t see His hand, but we can always trust His heart. Because we did not give up, we now are seeing promises fulfilled. His timing is not ours, but His timing is right.
8. Do you ever get tired or burned out doing ministry? If so, how do you handle that?
If you are in ministry very long, you will experience burnout and become weary from the battle. You have to find time to get into the presence of the Lord because that is where you find the strength you need. You also need time away, whether it be just a day or an extended vacation. It’s amazing what just leaving your city limits will do for you. You cannot pour from an empty vessel, so you must take care of yourself in the process of ministry.
9. Are there any books (besides the Bible!) that you’ve found helpful as a pastor’s wife or in your walk with God?
Christians and Strongholds by Kim Haney
Hinds’ Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard
Any of Nona Freeman’s books
10. If you had a day free where you could do anything you wanted, what would that be?
We live close to the mountains, so I love to take a drive with my husband and take in all the beauty God gave us.
11. Tell us a few of your favorite things!
I love spending time with my family! I love my new grandbaby, Maisen Kate Havens! I love my little dog, Roxy! Certain types of music are therapeutic for me. These are a few of my favorite things.