Equipping

From Hobby to Ministry

I never imagined that running would become my ministry, but this form of exercise has gifted me time to reflect, pray, appreciate and learn.

I knew it was time to redirect the credit I was receiving from my social media running posts after bumping into a friend who mentioned, “I saw your Facebook post about your running. I hope you know you’ve inspired me.” Then another friend echoed the same thought—and another, and another. They all told me the same thing: I was an inspiration.

I began posting reflections and tributes to the Lord whenever I shared a photo or video of myself in action. I wanted others to see that exercise isn’t just about looking fit or feeling healthy—it can also be about encountering the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding and guards our hearts and minds. (See Philippians 4:7.) Over time, I’ve turned my passion into purpose.

We all have different interests and skills, and you may not have realized it yet, but our hobbies can become ministry tools. If you feel called to turn a hobby into a ministry, here are three steps to help you begin.

1.) Seek Connection

Start by building relationships with those who can guide and amplify your mission. Reach out to your pastor, who may have access to resources and networks that can support your cause. You can also connect with civic leaders like your city manager or Chamber of Commerce president; there may be some groups or programs already established in your community that can serve as a resource.

Don’t stop at your church doors—go into your community. Share your passion with others. As a runner, I often engage with people I meet at local races and fitness events. I ask questions, learn their stories and find ways to bring us together in faith. Connection is a gateway for the development of faith, and fellowship is essential in our advancement toward the kingdom of Christ. (See Hebrews 10:24-25.)

2.) Support Others, Strengthen Your Mission

Your ministry will flourish when it becomes about more than just your journey—it should be about lifting others up. Community involvement is key. Show up for events, collaborate with others and use social media to invite others to join you.

For example, as a baker, you could organize a community bake sale and donate the proceeds to a ministry. As an artist, you might create and gift artwork to nursing homes or auction pieces for charity.

Every hobby can be a ministry, whether you are using your artistic skill to create something thoughtful or using your talent to orchestrate a benefit. Just remember that ministry is dead without mobilization. (See Matthew 28:19-20.)

3.) Glorify, Always

At every stage of the journey, remember this: the only reason we are able to do anything at all is because God allows it. When the going gets tough, we often remember how much we need Him.

When things are operating smoothly, we can make the mistake of ascribing that success to ourselves. Never neglect who deserves all the credit, and never forget to incorporate Him into all your efforts. After all, we were created for His glory. (See Isaiah 43:7.)

Let your passion point people to the One who gave it to you. That’s where true ministry begins.

By Madeline Haak, Record Writer