I would also suggest that this type of relationship should not be limited to you. Your spouse can often carry a similar weight as he or she shares in your ministry—sometimes it can even be worse. If you think you feel alone, try feeling that way and not having any control over the way ministries run. Or try attending a church where you are expected to function as a staff member without actually being paid to be a staff member. Our spouses often deal with these issues, and they need a safe place to share their struggles as well.
If you don’t know where to find a safe place or safe person with whom you can share your struggles, try reaching out to a Youth Minister from another church in your city. Even if he or she isn’t in your denomination, you will almost assuredly have similar war stories to share. They may be just as hungry for this as you! Or maybe you’re blessed enough to live in a city like mine which has an established network of Youth Ministers. This resource is more valuable than I can describe, and you should take advantage of it! Or maybe you could even be the one to begin such a network. I hear Rooted is always looking to start up new networks in new locations!
No matter how long we’ve been in ministry, we need to recognize that at some point, we’re not going to be OK. The church is the Bride of Christ yet to be perfected, so she still has many of her warts. Youth Ministers are often among the first to experience them. The sooner you find someone trusted with whom you can share your struggles, the sooner you’ll experience the healing power of Jesus as he works to transform your life via the burden carrying of other brothers and sisters in Christ.
This article originally appeared here.
