Not long ago, the Barna Group recently published the results of a survey into pastoral wellness. Their research indicated a sharp decline over the past seven years in the pastor’s self-reported levels of spiritual, physical, and mental well-being. Nearly a third of the pastors surveyed reported their emotional or spiritual exhaustion.
There’s no question that shepherding Christ’s church today is hard, challenging work. Scripture reminds us that life in a fallen world carries a degree of suffering for all God’s faithful.
Still, amidst the storms, the vast majority of Christ’s servants hold fast to His promise that His grace is enough, that they will reap a harvest if they do not give up. Perseverance is crucial, especially during those seasons when we are the most stressed.
But perseverance is not what many think it is!
The temptation for many, especially those in “the ministry”, is to view perseverance as exerting all the effort we can muster to press through challenges like a bull dozer. “Just push through until you make it to the other side. Don’t stop, just press on.”
Now, there is a certain point when one must determine to face a challenge rather than avoid it or procrastinate. But perseverance is not merely a product of effort and determination. In fact, effort or determination alone will likely further fuel exhaustion.
Perseverance, I believe, involves a variety of factors. It’s the end result of several affirmations Christians make along their way. These include:
Assurance of the Lord’s word and His calling for your life.
Maintenance of healthy rhythms, keeping a steady pace for spiritual development, personal and family well-being, ministry responsibility, community engagement, and sabbath. By the way, if you’re too busy to sabbath regularly, you’re too busy.
Willingness to share the load, relying on others in Christ’s body for mutual benefit.
Wisdom to step back and take a respite break when the pressure accumulates in one or more of these areas.
Each of these points is crucial. The assurance helps us focus on the Lord’s provision, both physical and spiritual, and His end goal for us. Healthy rhythms and sabbath allow us to serve with steady pacing, realizing we’re called to a marathon, not a sprint. The reliance on others is realization that God has placed us in community and that no one needs to face the challenge alone.
This last point, respite or sabbatical, is equally crucial, but it’s often the hardest for ministry leaders to do. Still, there will come seasons when ministers will benefit from hitting the pause button, refocusing their hearts and minds, and refreshing their strength. When they do, just as he did with Elijah, the Lord will energize His servant for continued service.
How are you doing at each of these points. If you need help with any of them, contact us at the GTBN. Remember, we’re in this together!
Bro. Jim