Church leaders like pastors and elders have a meaningful vocation because they help people to find faith in Jesus as well as their purpose in life. They provide spiritual support to believers as they navigate the ups and downs of their Christian journey. They offer guidance to seekers as they begin to discover the basics of the faith.
Nevertheless, we know that ministry work is more of a marathon rather than a sprint. While it can be fulfilling, it also comes with its unique challenges which may cause church leaders like us to consider quitting. How can we have longer tenures and be more effective? Keep reading to discover tips on how to achieve longevity in the pastorate.
5 Ways To Achieve Longevity in the Pastorate
1. Remember God’s Calling
There are times when we feel discouraged because of ministry problems and setbacks. Whenever we feel overwhelmed, let us keep in mind that it was the Lord Himself who led us to the ministry. Lifeway Research explains that an unshakeable sense of God’s calling will motivate us to remain dedicated to our vocation and the church community.
2. Be Passionate About God’s Word
We must always remember the power of the Scriptures and how it transformed our own lives. This will encourage us to be passionate about sharing God’s Word to other people who need this transformative power in their lives as well. We should preach Scriptural insights in the pulpit regularly.
3. Be Realistic
The figurative grass may seem greener on the other side of the spiritual fence. Nevertheless, the truth is that pastors and elders in different churches face similar challenges. These issues may come in various forms, yet they are essentially the same at the core. Instead of wishing we were at another church, we should develop a realistic point of view so that we will be content in our current sphere of influence.
4. Stay Healthy
As we nurture our spiritual health, let us not forget to protect our physical and mental health as well. The Pastoral Theology blog recommends that we take care of our physical bodies by following a nutritious diet and exercising regularly. We should also nourish our mental health by participating in our favorite hobbies and activities. After all, we need physical, mental, and spiritual strength to remain in the ministry for a long time.
5. Remember That the Results Are Dependent on God
We should always remember that God is the true owner of our church/ministry. He simply entrusted it to us as faithful stewards. Crossway.org reminds us that while we should continue to do our best, we should not forget that the outcome of our spiritual work is in the hands of the Lord.
Let Us Prepare Ourselves for a Long-term Pastoral Ministry
Let us begin taking active steps towards the pursuit of longevity in pastoral ministry. I encourage you to start following these tips today.
Bookmark our website to read more advice for pastors, elders, and Christian church leaders.
