More pastors are taking sabbaticals than ever before. Sabbaticals generally last anywhere from 40 days to a year and afford the pastor a chance to step aside from his regular ministry duties for a time of rest, renewal, and reflection. Some take what might be called “emergency sabbaticals” due to unhealthy ministry patterns, fatigue, and burnout. Though not ideal, they are sometimes necessary. However, having a “planned sabbatical” with a clear goal in mind, will be beneficial to both pastor and congregation.

Here are six reasons to consider a sabbatical.

Rest

This is the most obvious reason. Pastoral ministry is not physically demanding (at least most of the time), but it is demanding in other ways. As Thom Rainer explains, “In the course of a day, a pastor can deal with death, deep spiritual issues, great encouragement, petty criticisms, tragedies, illnesses, and celebrations of birth.”

The emotional roller coaster of ministry can be taxing on the pastor, especially over the course of several years. I know several pastors who regularly “burn the candle at both ends.” Inevitably, that kind of pace takes its toll over time. A sabbatical can provide much needed rest and renewal that go far beyond what can be gained from a few weeks of vacation each year.

To be clear, a sabbatical is not an extended vacation, but it should be a time of rest.

Pursue God

Like many Christians, pastors sometimes fall into the trap of finding our identity in what we do, rather than who we are in Christ. Pastors look more like Martha, in being “anxious and troubled about many things,” than Mary, who was concerned with the “one thing” necessary – time with Jesus (Luke 10:38-42). 

A time of sabbatical can greatly help the pastor to reorient his life and ministry in the direction of Christ. Scottish pastor Robert Murray McCheyne (1813-1843) put it best in saying, “My people’s greatest need is my personal holiness.” The 21^st century pastor has to wear a lot of hats and meet a variety of expectations, and the value of modeling a godly and prayerful life is all too often dismissed. Sadly.    

Christianity is all about the pursuit of God. Pastors would do well to slow down, and give themselves wholly to knowing Christ (John 17:3, Philippians 3:10-11).

Clarify Your Calling

All pastors and elders have the same basic job description. They are called to preach “Christ crucified” (1 Corinthians 1:23) and “devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:4). Pastors are to “shepherd the flock of God” (1 Peter 5:2) and “do the work of an evangelist” (2 Timothy 4:5). These responsibilities are non-negotiable. However, every pastor also has a unique calling that transcends these core components.

Sometimes it is necessary to take time to reflect on this. Ask God, “what do you want to do through my life? How can I best use my gifts for your glory?” A sabbatical affords time to consider these matters. 

One of the most important skills in ministry is the ability to say “no” to a lot of things. The pastor often has to turn down good opportunities in order to focus on what is essential. Without a clear sense of calling, however, the pastor will not be able to tell the difference.    

Spend Time with Your Family   

Let’s just be honest. Sometimes the pastor’s family gets the short end of the stick. The kids don’t have much access to Dad. His wife often sacrifices him so that he can be available to others.

Ministry is demanding. There were times where the apostles wondered how they would carry on (2 Corinthians 1:8-10). The reality of ministry is that every pastor will suffer and sacrifice much. However, he should strive to free himself up as much as possible for his family.

During a time of sabbatical, the pastor will find some much needed family time. A sabbatical can also help the pastor find new rhythms and routines that will help him protect his family time when he re-enters ministry.    

If God has blessed you with a wife and children, take the time to enjoy them. They are good gifts of God (Psalm 127:3, Proverbs 18:22).

To Stretch (and Strengthen) Your Church

A pastoral sabbatical can be tough on congregations. After earning their trust over the years, having him absent for a time can be a stretch. If there is a downside to sabbaticals, it is this. However, the church can also benefit and perhaps even be strengthened.

One of the pastor’s main callings is to equip the saints for the work of the ministry (Ephesians 4:12). A pastor that simply does everything, is failing in his God-giving calling. Healthy congregations have been equipped by the leadership to use their spiritual gifts (Romans 12:6-8, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11).

As the pastor steps aside for a time, the leadership and the congregation as a whole will inevitably have to step up, particularly when it comes to smaller congregations. Obviously, this doesn’t just happen automatically, but when a church has been consistently fed the Word of God, equipped, and been trained for ministry, such a positive scenario is possible.     

Study and Plan Ahead  

Paul told Timothy, “Do you best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). Though it shouldn’t be so, in the craziness of ministry, the ministry of the word sometimes gets neglected.

A sabbatical can be hugely beneficial in providing uninterrupted time for study. Pastors can dive deep into the riches of God’s word and be better equipped to feed God’s people. It also offers preaching pastors the chance to study and plan months (and even years) in advance. 

Is a Sabbatical for You?

Obviously, the church needs to be on board with it. Planning for a sabbatical is a lot of work and no two sabbaticals are alike. Many denominations now recommend that pastors take a sabbatical after serving five to seven years at a church. Though it is not for every pastor, most pastors would benefit from a sabbatical.

As you thoughtfully and prayerfully consider these matters, remember the glorious invitation that Jesus gives to all. “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).