Kumiko has been a pioneer for two decades. Though she has three children and an unbelieving husband, she has found through experience that the best time for her to read and study the Bible is just before her bedtime. As she studies, she particularly notes points that she can use in the field ministry so that she can keep her daily ministry fresh and interesting. Other successful pioneers get up before the rest of the family to enjoy spiritual recharging in the quiet morning hours. You may have other appropriate times set aside to prepare for meetings and keep up with the latest Christian publications. If you desire to maintain the joy of the ministry, personal study is not something that can be rushed or neglected.

Many pioneers endeavor to do all of their preaching work when family members are away from home. Kumiko, mentioned earlier, is with her family as they eat their breakfast, sees her husband and children off in the morning, and is back home before they return. She uses Mondays to cook several meals in advance so that she can be relaxed and can eat meals with her family instead of busying herself in the kitchen. Doing more than one chore at a time, such as other housework while preparing meals, also helps. In that way Kumiko even finds time to invite her children’s friends over and to prepare special treats for them.