A mission brings new experiences, places, and people. Living and working with a companion can be one of the biggest adjustments. Most of us haven’t spent every waking moment with the same person for six weeks straight, so it’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed at first.
Many missionaries have been through this adjustment. Your approach to it can make things easier. These suggestions can help you build a strong, positive relationship with your companion and enjoy serving together.
1. Pray for Them
One of the simplest but most powerful things you can do for your companion is to pray for them. Pray for their well-being, their growth, and their success. Ask Heavenly Father to help you understand their perspective and help them feel loved. Prayer is a powerful way to soften your heart and strengthen your bond.
2. Serve Them
Serving your companion helps build a solid relationship. Even when you’re focused on your own needs, making time for them can bring you closer. Do something kind, listen when they need to talk, or share a laugh.
3. Work Together
You and your companion are both doing the Lord’s work and receiving guidance from the Spirit about where to go, whom to teach, and how to serve. When you work together, the Spirit guides both of you in unity. Working together makes the mission more enjoyable and helps you serve more effectively.
4. Pray Together
Pray with your companion as well as for them. Pray together every day, asking Heavenly Father to help your companionship grow in unity and love. Ask for guidance on how to help each other grow spiritually, and for strength to face challenges together.
5. Talk Highly of Your Companion
Always speak highly of your companion to members, people you’re teaching, and other missionaries. Showing respect and kindness in how you talk about them builds trust and strengthens your relationship.
6. Love Them
Above all, love your companion. They are there to serve alongside you and are likely going through many of the same emotions, challenges, and triumphs. You may come from different backgrounds, but you share the goal of serving the Lord and building up His kingdom. They are doing their best, just as you are. Show them love and compassion.
Learning to serve together
Adjusting to life with a mission companion can be tough, but it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences of your mission. Through prayer, service, and patience, you’ll grow closer to your companion and to Heavenly Father. Unity, love, and teamwork help you appreciate serving together. Learning to work with and love those around you is a big part of learning, growing, and becoming more Christlike.
Be patient with the adjustment and enjoy the chance to grow together as you serve.
For more mission advice, visit the Church's website!
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