Connected | 3rd Quarter | 2026

CONTENTS Editorial

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Before they cry out, I will answer

05

The Delight of My Eyes

09

Live for the Glory of God

13

The not-so-simple art of having female friends

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Stewardship is learned in the family

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News from Our Territory

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‘Connected’ – The Journal of the Ministerial Association is an on-line resource publication for Pastor’s Wives published quarterly by the Inter-American Division.

Inter-American Division Ministerial Association, Ministerial Secretary: Pr. Josney Rodriguez Associate Ministerial Secretary: Leticia De los Santos Contents Coordinator: Leticia De los Santos Editor: Ana Laura Namorado Translation English: Rony Arturo Ruiz Saucedo French: Kossivi Sanvi Creative Direction and Design: Busani / Sam Hdz. Lara 8100 SW 117th Avenue, Miami, Florida 33183 USA, Year 2026

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

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EDITORIAL Ministry is not a task to be undertaken alone; it is a journey traveled as a team.

Over the past few months, God has granted me the privilege of visiting some of the Unions in our Division. In each place, I observed something that filled my heart with gratitude: women committed to serving God with love and dedication.

When we talk about ministry, we tend to think only of the pastor.

This is a misconception, since this task, this calling, also involves his family. The minister’s wife and children are part of that shared mission that impacts lives and strengthens churches.

For this reason, in the Ministerial Spouses Association, we are particularly committed to supporting and caring for the pastor’s wife. Ministry is not a task to be undertaken alone; it is a journey traveled as a team.

The pastor needs a life partner: a wife who walks beside him, who encourages and supports him; that is why it is important to correctly understand the meaning of “supporting in ministry.”

Sometimes, this idea can become a burden or create expectations that are overwhelming. The wife is not expected to be a “copastor,” but rather a suitable helper, providing emotional, spiritual, and practical support within the mission they both share.

Every woman has been given unique gifts from God. Jesus made this clear in the parable of the talents, in Matthew 25:15 (NIV), when He said that “To one He gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag, each according to his ability.”

Not all of us have the same gifts, nor are we called to perform the same tasks, but each of us has received something valuable to place at the Lord’s service.

When we use those gifts, we find purpose and fulfillment. When a pastor’s wife serves with freedom, balance, and joy, we are all blessed. Her husband finds support, and she herself experiences the joy of living with purpose. Her home is strengthened, and the church benefits.

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On the other hand, it is sad to see exhausted wives trying to meet impossible expectations or giving more than they have the strength for. We long to see happy women, serving according to their abilities, enjoying the privilege of partnering with God according to the gifts they have received.

It is undeniable that we are living in decisive moments in the history of this world. What a privilege it is to be able to participate in the mission at this time! I pray that each of you will continue to use your skills and talents with enthusiasm, allowing God to work through your life to bless others.

We do not all have the same gifts, nor are we called to perform the same tasks, but each one has received something valuable to put at the service of the Lord.

Let’s remember that every act of service, done with love, has eternal value.

A big hug, with love, Leticia

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

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BEFORE THEY CALL, I WILL ANSWER “Walking by your side is my longing, loving and kind Jesus. I

praise and bless your name, for your blood shed on the cross.”

Very happily I said, “Thank you, Lord! I like it!” I continued writing what would be the chorus: “How pleasant it is to live by your side, Lord, you give me sweet peace and power to love.

You heal me, you encourage me, and you make me live the blessed joy of being with you.”

The week’s activities had worn me out. On Saturday afternoon, I felt so exhausted that all I wanted was to rest and, if possible, get some sleep. But just as I was about to go to bed, I remembered that I needed a theme song for a Women’s Ministry Congress we had scheduled at the Northern Mexican Union. With so many preparations underway, I had forgotten to find a composer to write the theme song’s lyrics and music. Since there was little time left before the event, I said to my husband, with a worried tone, “I don’t have the theme song yet. Who should I ask?” His response surprised me, and I even felt like he was mocking me.

He said, “Well, you do it.”

You can probably guess my response: “What do you mean? I’m not a songwriter—don’t make fun of me; that’s not my talent.” He had to go out to a meeting, so I went to bed, hoping to fall asleep. I tossed and turned in bed, without success. Then, I did something that still surprises me to this day: I sat up, grabbed a piece of paper, and a pen. I spoke to God, and I felt His presence very close to me. It wasn’t a prayer asking for His help; I simply said aloud, “Here I am, Lord; are You going to give me the song?” Immediately, the lyrics came to my mind, and I began to write: “Walking by Your side is my longing, loving and gracious Jesus. I praise and bless

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

Devotion and Service is my motto and song. To share your Word and serve with love. You gave me an example, I am your disciple, give me your Spirit, impel me to action.

6 Your name, for Your blood shed on the cross.” Very happy, I said, “Thank You, Lord! I like it!” I continued writing what would become the chorus: “How sweet it is to live by Your side, Lord; You give me sweet peace and the power to love. You heal me, you encourage me, and you let me experience the blessed joy of being with You.” The dialogue with God continued, and I said to Him: “Lord, you know what the motto of our conference is; I would like it to be in the next verse,” and I continued writing: “Devotion and Service is my motto and song.

To share Your Word and serve with love. You gave me an example; I am your disciple; give me your Spirit; drive me to action.” And finally, the third verse: “With joy I share the news of peace, in my home, in the church, and everywhere, so that others may remember that You will come soon, to take us all to our heavenly home.”

Grateful and happy for this divine intervention to meet my need, I lay down, confident that now I would finally be able to fall asleep and get some rest. But the same thing happened—I tossed and turned in bed. I sat up, paper in hand, and smiling, I said to my God, the Author of the song: “Are you going to give me the music, too?”

To my surprise, I began to sing it. I wanted to think that maybe it was the melody of another song and I was simply adapting it to the lyrics I already had. I told myself, “If it’s from God, I won’t forget it.”

You who are reading this testimony, do you think that after this wonderful experience I was able to fall asleep? Well, no. It’s impossible to sleep when you’ve witnessed God’s help in such a specific and evident way.

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

“With joy I share the good news of peace, in my home, in the church and everywhere, so that others may remember that you will soon come, to take us all to our heavenly home.”

A little while later, my husband came back and asked me, “How did it go?” “Very well!” I replied immediately. Very excitedly I told him what had happened and sang the song. He said to me, “Record it so you don’t forget it,” but I replied, “If it’s from God, I won’t forget it.” My response might suggest that I doubted it was inspiration from God, but rather, I was certain that God had given it to me and that no one would take it away from me. And so, it was.

As a result of this simple yet very meaningful experience I had, I invite you to reflect on three lessons I’ve drawn from conversing with God: 1. God’s love and His desire to bless you come before your requests. Look at what the prophet Isaiah recorded: “ Before they call, I will answer; while they are still speaking, I will hear” (Isaiah 65:24 NIV). God provides for your needs before you even ask Him. 2. God is the source of the musical and poetic inspiration that praise Him. David states: “He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God...” (Psalm 40:3 NIV). Zephaniah 3:17 emphasizes that God Himself sings joyfully over His people. In heaven, there are songs that the angels sing constantly in worship of the one God, who deserves praise and honor forever and ever (Revelation 4:8, 11; 19:1, 6–7). Dear sister, if you are blessed with the talent to compose music, to sing songs of praise to God, or to play an instrument to worship Him, I encourage you to continue doing so with humility and sincerity. Recognize that the inspiration and ability to do so come from Him. Public participation has its place, but singing and praising God is an enriching experience when it is part of your personal devotion.

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God’s love and desire to bless you anticipate your requests.

3. Have faith—God is ready to bless you. The apostle Paul had that beautiful assurance when he declared: “ And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19 NIV). David also expressed this by saying: “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing” (Psalm 23:1 NIV). When walking with Jesus becomes a joy every day, He will bestow unimaginable blessings upon us.

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In our daily lives, we sometimes offer a spoken prayer or a song of praise to thank God for the blessings we have received. Ellen G. White states: “Indeed, many a song is prayer.” (Education, 168.3). “There must be a living connection with God in prayer, a living connection with God in songs of praise and thanksgiving.” (Evangelism, 498.1).

To conclude, I invite you to embrace the words of Rubén Acuña, a beloved singer in our church in Mexico, who says: ‘Make my life a song that harmonizes with your holiness.’

This is a heartfelt plea to God to honor Him with our talents and with our whole lives.

May all praise and glory always be given to our mighty God.

Natalia Castro Rodríguez, was born in Sinaloa, Mexico. She has been married for 47 years to Pastor J. Mercedes Espinosa.

Both are retired. She has two children: Keila and Eben Ezer, who are married. She has three grandsons and two granddaughters. She has served the church as a teacher, secretary, and director of the Women’s Ministries and Children’s Ministries departments in the North Mexican Union.

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THE DELIGHT OF MY EYES I decided to write this article for CONNECTED magazine, which is aimed at our beloved pastors’ wives in the Inter-American Division. However, before I continue, let me suggest that you invite your husband to read it with you. It could be a source of great mutual growth. Do you believe me? Then let’s do it!

This pastor used to call himself a “priest,” but he was better known for his role as a prophet. This is Ezekiel, who was a prominent figure in Jerusalem. He was taken into captivity in Babylon during the reign of Jehoiachin in 597 B.C. Commentators suggest that he was a young man. God sent messages to His people while he was in captivity in those distant lands. Part of this man’s pastoral and prophetic ministry consisted of giving hope to the children of God’s people. However, one day, he received a sad and hopeless message from God.

He used the phrase “The delight of your eyes.” This is an invitation to use tender, beautiful, and loving words when referring to our wives.

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

In chapter 24, starting with verse 16, it reads: “Son of man, with one blow I am about to take away from you the delight of your eyes. Yet do not lament or weep or shed any tears.” Who was God referring to? Who, according to God, was the delight of Ezekiel’s eyes? In the following verse, He gives him further instructions regarding the episode: “Groan quietly; do not mourn for the dead. Keep your turban fastened and your sandals on your feet; do not cover your mustache and beard or eat the customary food of mourners.” (Ezekiel 24:17 NIV). It saddens me to think about how the prophet must have felt when he learned that his wife was going to die.

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It must have been very hard to accept. To the sorrow of being a captive, he had to add the loneliness that came with widowhood. Without shedding a single tear of grief or showing any sign of mourning, he delivered God’s message to the people. He said: “So I spoke to the people in the morning, and in the evening my wife died. The next morning, I did as I had been commanded.”

(Ezekiel 24:18 NIV). It must have been a very painful moment for him.

We could learn many lessons from the traumatic incident that took place in this pastor’s home, but I want to devote the rest of this article to discussing only the phrase God uses to describe Ezekiel’s wife: “the delight of your eyes.”

I think it’s a very beautiful and tender way to refer to a wife. The Hebrew term used for “delight” carries the connotation of something precious, a treasure. The New American Bible translates it as “the delight of your eyes.”

The New International Version renders it as “the woman who delights your eyes.” The God’s Word version translates it a little differently, but with great love: “The person you love most.”

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After reflecting on this beautiful phrase, I want to share with you three ideas that can help us enrich the marital relationships within the ministry to which we belong.

1.The beautiful, tender, and poetic way God addresses the wife is an invitation to us husbands. God could have simply said the name of Ezekiel’s wife. He could have used the word wife, spouse, partner, woman, companion, rib, relative, lady, or any other synonym. Instead, He used the phrase “the delight of your eyes.” Here lies an invitation to use tender, beautiful, and loving words when referring to our wives.

I have heard many husbands refer to their spouses with terms full of tenderness and love, almost all of them diminutives. They use them in private, but also in public. I confess that it sounds beautiful.

2. God holds wives in high regard. He must have known the wife in this story very well to consider her a delight to her husband. Did God come up with that phrase Himself, or had He heard it from the prophet’s lips?

I am sure that both of them held her in the same high regard. Here is an invitation to hold our wives in high regard. Full of virtues, like the wife in Proverbs 31. This woman has many virtues; one of them is that she inspires trust: “Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.” (Proverbs 31:11 NIV). This positive attitude should be shared not only by the husband, but by the rest of the family as well. They can call her blessed: “Her children arise and call her blessed.” (Proverbs 31:28 NIV). The verse then states: “her husband also, and he praises her.”

Husbands and wives

should live up to God’s ideal of marriage.

Daily routines can lead to situations that create tension in a relationship. In moments like these, it’s important to remember that we are one flesh. A loving and tender relationship should always prevail in marriage.

3. Ezekiel’s wife had many qualities that delighted her husband.

This story should serve as a reminder to always keep in mind those characteristics that bring joy to married life. It would be helpful to make a written or mental list of all these attributes. They should remain fresh in your mind so that they can surface, filled with tenderness and love, at all times, especially when the crises and difficulties inherent in a relationship arise.

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A kind approach will always be a blessing to one’s spouse.

Husbands and wives should live up to God’s ideal for marriage. The daily grind can lead to situations that create tension in a marriage. At times like these, we must not forget that we are one flesh. Kindness should always prevail in marriage. Paul advises: “Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them” (Colossians 3:19 NIV).

The word “harsh” in the text is actually a Greek word that means “bitter.” The biblical advice would be, “Do not be bitter toward her.”

A gentle attitude will always be a blessing to your spouse.

Ezekiel’s wife did not die the moment she received God’s message.

I believe the prophet managed to tell her many times before she died, “You are the delight of my eyes.” I suppose it wasn’t the first time he had said it; surely her ears were often filled with kind words from her husband. Such words should not be reserved only for the end of life.

They should be part of daily life together. There are no details about how she died; I can only venture to say that she died with God’s words upon her. God called her: “the delight of her husband’s eyes.”

Finally, a few words directly for the wives reading this article: your husband should also be called “the delight of your eyes.” Spouses like this will always live enjoying the delights of God’s great invention: marriage.

Pastor Pedro Iglesias. Served in the church in various roles, most recently as Associate Secretary of the Inter-American Division and Director of Family Ministries, alongside his wife, Cecilia. His passion is the family.

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

LIVING FOR GOD’S GLORY: THERE IS NO TIME TO WASTE “Do you not know that in a race all runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it” (1 Corinthians 9:24, ESV).

People rarely pay attention to superficial teachings that the messenger hasn’t applied in their own life.

Therefore, the bearer of this message must embody it so that the listener can accept and internalize it.

EDuring our last days of preparation for the Lord’s coming, are we taking God seriously?

It is a time to share the message of Revelation 14 with a loud voice—with the Holy Spirit’s power—warning and preparing the world for Jesus’ imminent return. This message is urgent and time-sensitive: there is no time to waste. The question is, as pastors’ wives, are we about God’s business or our own?

God is asking us to do two main things in this time of earth’s history: BE the message and GIVE the message.

BE the Message The message bearer carries a significant responsibility.

Rarely will people listen to teachings they feel are irrelevant to the message bearer or do not apply to them. Therefore, the messenger must live the message before the listener can receive and connect with it.

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Athletes understand what it means to live with focus and discipline. They know that performing at their best requires saying no to certain things so they can fully commit to what matters most. The apostle Paul states it this way: “Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.

But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified” (1 Corinthians 9:27, NKJV). Paul is saying that God’s purpose for his life—carrying the message of God to the Gentiles—caused him to take his personal choices more seriously, choosing discipline and self-control to prepare himself.

When God is Lord of our lives, our lifestyle will show it. How? Ellen White explains it: “And those who would be workers together with God must strive for perfection of every organ of the body and quality of the mind. True education is the preparation of the physical, mental, and moral powers for the performance of every duty; it is the training of body, mind, and soul for divine service. This is the education that will endure unto eternal life” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 330).

Let us consider some top priorities for health and vitality: Consider what we eat. Our bodies are built from the fuel they receive. If we desire a stronger body, we must consume the food our Creator made for us, which is whole and unprocessed foods (Gen. 1:29). Whole foods, such as what we find in the vegetable garden or orchard, are complete with the components our bodies need for health: fiber, phytonutrients, essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

It increases energy, vibrancy, and the ability to participate more in life. [If you are looking for guidance on how to eat for health, consider a plate with 50 percent vegetables & fruits, 25 percent protein (beans, lentils, peas, nuts), and 25 percent whole grains and starchy vegetables (brown rice, quinoa, oats, sweet potatoes, squash, etc.)].

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Consider what we drink. Every cell in the body needs water to function, survive, and maintain its structure.

Water makes up about 50-60 percent of our body weight. It is essential for transporting nutrients and removing waste. It provides the environment with the chemical reactions needed. According to the Mayo Clinic, the average healthy adult needs to drink 2.7-3.7 liters (11.5-15.5 cups) of total fluids a day. Fresh and clean water is the liquid the body needs for health.

Drinking one or two glasses of water when first waking up starts the hydrating process and refreshes body cells to function their best during the day.

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Consider what we do. The body is made to move.

Today, our computers, phones, and cars need to be dedicated to God so that we use them wisely and avoid imbalances such as sedentary lifestyles.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults need approximately 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. This means that taking 30 minutes of walking could be a good start for healthy body function.

Additionally, we need to train our bodies to keep the muscles functioning correctly. Lifting weights or using your body weight to exercise at least twice a week will strengthen major muscle groups in the legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms. Strong muscles provide numerous benefits. They help protect the body from harm by improving rest metabolism, increasing insulin sensitivity for glucose control, and improving cardiovascular and bone health.

Consider restoration. Restful sleep is just as essential for the body as exercise. It is the body’s primary time for tissue repair, muscle growth, immune system strengthening, and brain restoration. Adults who get 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night and

Strong muscles offer numerous benefits. They help protect the body from damage by improving resting metabolism, increase insulin sensitivity for glucose control, and improve cardiovascular and bone health.

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

Take time in prayer to ask God what He is calling you to do. Choose to put God first by practicing a lifestyle that glorifies Him.

take a break every two hours at work give their bodies time to repair and refresh. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day can help one get a deeper rest. Getting enough sleep helps us stay healthy, be more active, improve heart and metabolic health, and feel happier. It also helps avoid chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and strokes.

Besides these, God has given us many other gifts, such as sunlight, fresh air, the gift of self-control, as well as the peace and joy that come from trusting in Him. GIVE the message The Three Angels’ Message is a final call to the world to prepare for the coming of our Lord. It’s a call to put God first, last, and best in everything we do, worshipping Him by the way we live. It’s a call to give Him glory through not only our words but also our actions. It’s a call to come out from the world: its ways, its thinking, its patterns, because God has called every person to Himself and desires a people who will follow Him without reserve.

Are you in?

Living for God’s glory is fulfilling our mission. Prayerfully take the time to ask God what He is calling you to do. Choose to put God first by living a lifestyle that glorifies Him. Spend time in God’s Word, observing His ways, absorbing His principles, and letting God reveal His truths to your heart. Listen to the Holy Spirit speak to you about your personal mission and don’t hesitate to begin working now. There’s no time to waste.

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256 2. https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/adults.html 3. https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/healthy-eating-plate/ 4. https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about/index.html

Marcia McEdward is a pastor’s wife, mother of two, grandmother of two, and has worked as a nurse in five different countries. “I love God, serving people, and spending time in nature.”

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THE NOT-SO-EASY ART OF HAVING FRIENDS (part II) I was pursuing my master’s degree when I got a call from a dear friend telling me that, since classes were about to end, she had taken the liberty of buying me a plane ticket so I could visit her.

To be honest, I thought it was incredible! Truly providential! The money I had saved to pay for the school year was practically gone, and there were two weeks left before it ended. I told her, “You know what? I need to give lectures this coming vacation to keep paying for my studies.” Her response was immediate: “Don’t worry, you can stay with us here all summer. The clinic offices will serve as your base of operations. There are many places in this city where you can give lectures.”

My friend died of cancer years ago, and I still miss her.

We were very close and had endless topics to talk about.

Her companionship and support were a major source of encouragement for me to continue my graduate studies. True friends like her are treasures that shine brightly in the face of adversity.

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

Studies show that the more sincere and loyal friends we have, the happier we will be.

Friendship doubles the joys and shares the sorrows Studies show that the more sincere and loyal friends we have, the happier we will be. The time we spend with them enriches our lives. However, it is the quality of those friendships—not the quantity—that truly makes a difference.

Studies indicate also that it is not about having acquaintances but rather about having meaningful connections, as these yield benefits such as greater personal satisfaction, greater emotional stability, a lower risk of premature death, reduced cortisol levels, and improved cognitive function, among others.

A lack of social connections can double the risk of premature death, an effect greater than that of smoking 20 cigarettes a day. Studies find that having genuine friends lowers blood pressure, strengthens the immune system, and protects us from cognitive decline. Isn’t it worth having friends?

Let’s break the myth!

In ministry, we can indeed have female friends; it is possible to dispel the myth that we cannot. However, we must be wise and careful when choosing them. Most likely, with the majority of pastors’ wives, we will never be more than colleagues. Why is this the case? Because we are not compatible with everyone, and because, in general, we have different personality traits. We are usually drawn to people with characteristics and qualities similar to our own.

In the table below, in the left column, you’ll find a list of the qualities of a genuine friend. In the right column is the opposite of a friend of integrity.

I recommend that you choose the list on the left. Analyze each description:

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A TRUE FRIEND

VS.

A FAKE FRIEND

SHE’S AFFECTIONATE Empathetic, respectful, and warm toward you. Like that friend who always remembers your birthday and important dates and makes you feel loved. The one who sends you a message on WhatsApp first thing in the morning and tells you how things are going.

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:13 NIV

THE ONE WHO CRITICIZES YOU Or tries to make fun of you. The one who causes conflicts not only with you but also with others. The one who sends WhatsApp messages to belittle you and tends to be aggressive. “Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.” Proverbs 22:24-25 NIV

SOLIDARITY The one who’s always there for you through thick and thin. The one who checks in on you when you’re sick and shares a remedy to help you feel better. The one who opens the doors of her home to listen to you. “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity” Proverbs 17:17 NIV

NO SOLIDARITY The one who abandoned you when things got complicated and messy in your life. The one who changed when you changed direction, status, or position. The one who’s friends with the “influencers” or the popular kids. The one who acts friendly because she’s hoping to get something in return. “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”

Romans 12:9 NIV

SOURCE OF MOTIVATION She works with you to develop a plan of action and motivates you to exercise, improve your diet, or enrich both of your spiritual lives. She inspires you to step outside your comfort zone and encourages you to achieve your goals. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17 NIV

THE ONE THAT DISCOURAGES YOU You don’t feel comfortable around her because she’s hurtful, envious, and resents you for your achievements—perhaps because you’re better than her in many ways—but this affects your mood and makes you feel sad. “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.” James 3:16 NIV

“A true friend loves at all times and is a brother in times of trouble.”

Proverbs 17:17

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A TRUE FRIEND A MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL Because she always focuses on the positive, is optimistic, and shows you unconditional acceptance.

She can turn your sadness into joy and fill your life with optimism. “ Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice “. Proverbs 27:9 NIV

THE GRATEFUL ONE The one who puts God first in her life and naturally expresses the many blessings she receives from Him. She shows a spirit of generosity and finds joy in giving to others. “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Luke 6:31 NIV

VS.

A FAKE FRIEND THE ONE WHO NEEDS PROFESSIONAL HELP Because she is jealous, envious, hypocritical, and scheming. You should pray for her, for she is the one who spreads gossip and slander, poisoning the group and driving a wedge between its members. She is unhappy with herself, which is why she enjoys ruining the happiness of others. “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends”.

Proverbs 16:28

THE UNGRATEFUL ONE She doesn’t know how to be grateful, takes preferential treatment for granted, and doesn’t appreciate or show gratitude for the favors she receives. She is self-centered, lacks empathy, and feels special—entitled to receive favors but not to give them. Ingratitude is the gateway to complaining and dissatisfaction. “People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy.” 2 Timothy 3:2 NIV

“El aceite y el perfume alegran el corazón, y la dulzura de un amigo proviene de su sincero consejo”.

Proverbios 27:9

THE SPIRITUAL ONE She practices her personal devotion consistently. She joins you in prayer and invites you to fast for a shared need. She has refined manners and a noble demeanor.

“I am a friend to all who fear you, to all who follow your precepts.” Psalms 119:63 NIV

THE VAIN ONE She is still drawn to worldly things and is not spiritual in the way she speaks, dresses, or acts. She is not willing to turn her back on the world and follow Christ.

She comes across as crude and irreverent toward spiritual matters. “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” James 4:4 NIV

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AMIGA GENUINA INTEGRAL Loyal, honest, and faithful to you at all times. Unable to betray you or spread rumors to hurt you. Someone who knows how to keep secrets and is trustworthy.

“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”

Proverbs 18:24 NIV

VS.

AMIGA FALSA THE DISHONEST ONE She pretends to be your friend, but she talks behind your back and betrays you. She’s the one who, deep down, wants to hurt you out of envy and destroy you out of jealousy. “For the Lord detests the perverse but takes the upright into His confidence.”

Proverbs 3:32 NIV

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In a world where superficial relationships predominate, it is necessary to learn to be authentic, genuine, and whole because that is the Lord’s desire.

The truth is, to paraphrase Martin Luther King Jr., we’ve learned to fly like birds and swim like fish, but learning the art of being good friends hasn’t been straightforward. Maybe you’ve felt the need to let go of a friend because you no longer felt comfortable around her. Maybe you had to let someone go for the sake of your mental health—don’t worry. A “friendship” riddled with conflict, criticism, and aggression is not healthy.

It’s better to end it. In a world where superficial relationships prevail, we need to learn to be authentic, genuine, and wholehearted because that is the Lord’s desire.

Dr. Raquel Coello, Psychologist and Family Therapist. She enjoys providing therapy and psychological support to those in need. Her hobbies include reading, research, writing, traveling, and spending time with her family. raquelcoello092@gmail.com

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

STEWARDSHIP IS LEARNED IN THE FAMILY Life originates in God and belongs to Him alone. In His mercy, the Lord entrusts us with time and grants us gifts so that we may live with wisdom, happiness, responsibility, and balance. To achieve this, we must properly manage every aspect of our existence. Ultimately, we must be aware that one day we will give an account to God for the use of every gift that He has bestowed upon us; therefore, it is crucial to be good stewards.

In his mercy, the Lord entrusts us with time and grants us gifts to live with wisdom, happiness, responsibility, and balance.

What is stewardship?

A classic yet relevant definition emphasizes that stewardship is the faithful management of all the resources entrusted to us by God. It is a Christian way of life that involves total commitment and the responsible stewardship of God’s gifts, thereby reflecting our Father’s love and faithfulness. Furthermore, it is the wise and faithful management of the resources placed in our hands. (E. G. White, Counsels on Stewardship)

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

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Due to the pace of life in each family, it is essential to plan time to attend to the spiritual aspect and thus renew communion with God.

When we talk about stewardship, we are referring to a broad topic, as it touches every aspect of life. In this article, we will focus on general issues where the family becomes the ideal setting to foster this concept, since that is where we begin to be faithful stewards of the Almighty.

1. STEWARDSHIP OF THE BODY When the Eternal One created man, he was perfect, enjoying health, vigor, and peace, since he was in direct connection with his Creator. However, when Adam and Eve transgressed the holy law, their bodies began deteriorating and aging until they died. Despite this, humanity seeks to prolong life as much as possible, since God planted eternity in the human heart. That is why, there is a strong emphasis on healthcare today. One of the guiding principles is to prioritize preventive medicine over curative medicine. In this regard, the popular saying goes: “Prevention is better than cure.” Since treatment is costly, the focus has shifted toward improving lifestyle to prevent illnesses that can be expensive and exhausting for patients and their families.

In Leviticus 11, God sets forth clear guidelines regarding what to eat in order to maintain good health. In the book The Ministry of Healing, we are advised: “Grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables constitute the diet chosen for us by our Creator. These foods, prepared in as simple and natural a manner as possible, are the most healthful and nourishing. They impart a strength, a power of endurance, and a vigor of intellect that are not afforded by a more complex and stimulating diet.” (MH 296.1) This clearly points to a responsibility that mothers have: to strive to provide their families with nutritious high-quality food.

However, a healthy diet alone is not enough; we must also take care of our bodies. It is worth recalling the words of the Apostle Paul: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own.” (1 Corinthians 6:19 NIV) For this reason, exercise plays a vital role in our devotion to God. Let’s aim for at least 30 minutes of vigorous activity every day; if we can exercise longer, so much the better. We will soon see the rewards of our efforts in the form of better health, vitality, and mental sharpness. Without a doubt, this will always be better than sitting for hours in front of the television or staring at the screens of various devices.

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

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24 2. STEWARDSHIP OF TIME Let’s teach our children from an early age to give the important things in life the attention they deserve. “If ever there was a time when every house should be a house of prayer, it is now. Infidelity and skepticism prevail. Iniquity abounds. Corruption flows in the vital currents of the soul, and rebellion against God breaks out in the life… And yet, in this time of fearful peril, some who profess to be Christians have no family worship. They do not honor God in the home; they do not teach their children to love and fear Him.” (E. G.White, Counsels for the Church, p. 152.2) “Of no talent He has given will He require a more strict account than of our time.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p.

342.1) These days, life has become such a fast-paced and demanding race that we don’t know how or when we need to slow down or stop completely. Given the pace of life in every family, it is essential to set aside time to attend to our spiritual lives and thus renew our communion with God. Let’s not allow any family member to leave home without having connected with heaven. When thinking about family worship, we must keep in mind the age of each family member and adapt the spiritual activity to their particular context.

The best way to teach children faithfulness to God is by example. Deuteronomy 6:4–9 reminds us: “ Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down, and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. ”

“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.

You shall love the Lord

your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

3. TREASURES Paul offers us this important reflection: “For none of us lives for ourselves alone, and none of us dies for ourselves alone. ” (Romans 14:7 NIV) Someone once wrote: “He who lives only for himself does not deserve to be born.” God has granted us talents and gifts of great influence and impact. Unless we commit ourselves to a life of service, we will never realize the power we could wield for the good of others. The selfish person will never be satisfied; they will always want everything to revolve around them; they want to be the first to receive the prize and have the best. They are convinced that their opinions are the best. Likewise, the envious person always feels dissatisfied. This is in contrast to the satisfaction experienced by a person dedicated to service and selflessness.

Unless we commit ourselves to a life of service, we will never realize the power we could wield for the good of others.

How can we teach our family that our possessions and what we have achieved are meant to serve and help others? Let’s create a family budget together, so everyone understands what it means to be faithful to God in tithes and offerings. Furthermore, let that budget include a plan to help the poor. This help could even support a student so they can continue their studies; you could also plan to provide a food basket to someone in need. The important thing is that every family member understands the value and purpose of the gifts God has given them. This is achieved by example.

4. TALENTS Pastor B. Pérez Marcio recounts the following legend about a king who often went for walks to reward his subjects for their virtuous deeds. One day, he said to an old man who was planting trees: - What are you doing, good man?

- I’m planting walnut trees, my king!

- And why are you planting walnut trees whose fruit you won’t live to eat?

- To repay my debt to those who planted those trees, whose fruits I have enjoyed since my youth,” replied the old man.

There have always been people who have struggled to create or provide the comforts we currently enjoy. We read biblical stories, stories of pioneers, stories of martyrs; all of them paved the way for us to live better lives.

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

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We enjoy material advantages that others could not enjoy, but they paved the way for our well-being. What are we doing as parents to help our children see that the talents we possess are meant to benefit society and the church? Let us take an interest in teaching our children to live in a useful way, to benefit others.

CONCLUSION I’m sure this is a topic we’re all quite familiar with, but the key question is this: Where is this lifestyle learned? Upon reflection, we can agree that the best place to teach stewardship to our children is within the family. That is where the foundation for their adult lives is laid; it is there that we raise children who are faithful to God in every aspect of life. What a great responsibility God has given us to nurture in our children character traits that will endure into eternal life! May the day come when God calls us to account, and we can say: “Here am I, and the children the Lord has given me.” (Isaiah 8:18 NIV)

Thelma Park de Reyna is a pastor’s wife from Mexico. She has a masters degree in Family Therapy and Educational Psychology. Thelma loves cooking vegetarian food. She and her husband are now enjoying retirement.

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

NEWS FROM OUR TERRITORY From the Union of Chiapas From April 5–9, the Chiapas Mexican Union held the Pastors’Children Convention under the theme “A Pastor’s Child, a Child of God.” The event brought together 191 young people from pastoral families, ages 12 to 24, along with the children of professional pastors who participated virtually.

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The purpose of the event was to strengthen their identity as beloved children of God and help them understand that their worth and calling are grounded in a personal relationship with Jesus. Throughout the gathering, participants were encouraged to discover their gifts and talents and to become actively involved in the mission of the church.

MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

Workshops were offered in music, media, health, and world mission.

The messages were presented by Pastors Hiram Ruiz and Josué Murillo Campos, both pastors’ children themselves, who shared insights and experiences from their own journeys as PKs (Pastors Kids).

The Division’s five-year initiative, “PKs Reconnection”, was also promoted during the event. This initiative seeks to strengthen relationships and foster mutual support among pastors’ children.

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MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026

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MINISTERIAL SPOUSES ASSOCIATION / 3rd QUARTER 2026