3. Suffering.
This is real and not to be dismissed. We all know that suffering is part of the Christians life (Matthew 10:38; Matthew 16.24″ data-version=”esv”>16:24) and it is often the case that pastors experience this in great measure.
This can come in forms as various as persecution, financial hardship and family trials related to ministry.
Encouragement: Be aware of the persecuted Church and regularly pray for it. It will keep your mind and heart steadied when persecution comes.
Expect to suffer and prepare your family for suffering. And when the suffering comes, plead with God that you might grow to see it as a privilege to suffer for the sake of Christ (Philippians 1:27-30).
Continue to look to the example of others in church history and to the cross as you seek to persevere.
