Ministry As Guests                            

Our message can be nullified, and our reputation tarnished by being poor guests. An attitude of superiority, unfriendliness, seeking entertainment, a lack of neatness, and ingratitude may all contribute to this.

SUGGESTIONS:

Maintain a servant attitude as a guest, rather than expecting to be served and entertained. The key to being a good guest is being low maintenance. Do not linger around their home, and it’s often better to stay gone during the day.

THINGS TO DO:

Do look for opportunities to minister to hosts and pray with/for them and draw them out in conversation.

Do give compliments, practice courtesy and good manners.

Do be flexible – expect the worst and be delighted with anything better.

Do ask before using things – even if you think it is okay. 

Do keep your things orderly and clean and double-check to make sure you are not leaving anything behind.

Do always make the bed.

Do lock your bedroom/bathroom doors, when possible, to avoid awkward “walk-in” moments.

Do communicate what time you are leaving in the morning, and how many nights you are staying.

Do leave cell phones on overnight in case of an emergency with another team member.

Do decide as a team if you’d like to use team money to buy a small gift for your host if they have gone above and beyond.

Do be prepared to remove your shoes in most homes.

THINGS NOT TO DO:

Don’t talk about other ministries, churches, or controversial issues.

Don’t expect free meals, entertainment or free services.

Don’t ask for special favors or to borrow their car.

Don’t try to make it to the bathroom half-clothed thinking no one is around.

Don’t pick up their baby or be alone in a room with a child.

Don’t put your feet on any furniture.

Don’t act like the room belongs to you and “explode” your bag.

Don’t stay up late talking loudly on the phone.

Don’t leave your wallet out at night in New Orleans.

Don’t leave a clogged toilet and then destroy the entire house with water.