Let’s face it. Pastors work long hours and deal with loads of stress. The challenges and pressures of ministry can take a toll on the body, especially over the long haul. Several years ago, during a particularly stressful season of ministry, my health broke down. I ended up in the ER with serious a heart issue that required over a year of recovery. If pastors … Continue reading 6 Keys to Staying Healthy in Ministry
In many ways, my sabbatical was about returning to the basics. I enjoyed a renewed emphasis on things like Bible study, prayer, worship, solitude, and Scripture memorization. If your ministry is about pointing others to God, but your own heart isn’t inclined toward him, something is wrong. Continue reading What I Learned on my (unplanned) Sabbatical
When I became a pastor 13 years ago, I quickly realized the dropout rate among pastors is high. Statistics vary, but I’ve personally known several pastors who left ministry for one reason or another. Sometimes we forget, though, the pastors who’ve persevered in faithful ministry for decades. My friend Dave Lewis is an example. Dave has pastored the same church for more than 67 years. … Continue reading Lessons on Ministry Longevity From a Longtime Pastor
Shepherd the Flock 