Yet I don’t want you to become another statistic. Many people leave pastoral ministry for a positive reason (that’s what I did). But most leave for survival.
When I thought about my friend and pastor who I’m with this weekend, some thoughts came to mind:
1. Don’t Believe For a Moment That You’re Responsible for the Results
It’s your job to work hard and pray harder, but the results are on God. He’s the one with the power to change lives. It’s your job to help set the scene for Him to do what only he can do.
2. Work for One
I came across this passage again recently:
No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not merely obeying the letter of the law; rather, it is a change of heart produced by the Spirit. And a person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people. (Romans 2:29, NLT)
Who are you working for, really? Yourself? Your opportunities or next steps? Your board or congregation? All of those answers lead to frustration.
You’re working for an audience of One. Keep that in mind the next time you’re tempted to seek anyone else’s approval.
3. Set The Right Priorities
You’ve heard this a thousand times, so I’ll keep it short: Your family is your first ministry. Never let them suffer at the hands of your church work. It’s the fastest way to drive your family away from the church and, potentially, faith.
Additionally, prioritize yourself. Not selfishly, but you must remember that your health is a priority that will require some time. Go for a 30-minute walk every day. Join a local gym and work out a few days per week. Commit to reading a book every month or so. All of this is possible, but it will take some intentional planning on your part.
4. Set Some Personal Boundaries
The moment you realize that you can’t do it all is the moment you begin to set better boundaries. You may need to work more than 40 hours, but at some point, no number of hours is enough to do all that you want to do.
Ministry is a marathon, not a sprint. Work hard and be efficient with your time, but you can’t allow the church to become your life. If you do, your spiritual, emotional, and physical life will pay a heavy price.
5. Ask for Help
It’s called the “Body of Christ” for a reason. When you refuse to ask for help or delegate to those around you, you’re robbing them of an opportunity to be used by God. People in your church are willing and able to contribute to their church if you ask and allow them to engage.
I’ve often found people rise to opportunities more than obligations. The church is the best opportunity we can offer to people. Ask people to participate in meaningful ways.
6. Remain Grateful
Pastors are human. We have a way of becoming disappointed with people and circumstances. Remember that God has placed you in this place. You’ve been called to this situation for a season. It’s important to remain grateful for what God has done rather than become envious of what others have.
Gratitude is best expressed through responsibility. Stop looking over your shoulder and, instead, look at who you have in front of you. These are the people God has entrusted to your care. They are the flock you have to shepherd.
If you’ve accepted a call to ministry, you’ve accepted a call to one of the most challenging roles possible. You’re not capable or qualified, which is good, as it reminds us to rely on Jesus. Do that daily. God is paying attention. He knows your name and your heart. Keep relying on him to do what you’re trying to do on your own.
This article originally appeared here and is used by permission.
