It’s a challenging time to be a pastor. The world is getting smaller, more complex, and let’s face it – a little scary at times. The pace of external change is creating enormous tension for spiritual communities around the globe. Staying engaged is a full-time job, and that’s on top of your already full-time job.
Speaking from experience, the pressure of leading a church is increasing.
And not everybody is sticking with it.
So…what’s next? What do we want our world to be like in 10 years?
Pastor, I believe we are on the cusp of some incredible breakthroughs in the world, in our cities, in our communities, and in our neighborhoods. I believe God is working on something beautiful, and we need you to hang in there in order for Him to accomplish it.
Pastor, we need you now more than ever.
The thing is, the Church of Jesus – the Bride of Christ – is unfinished. The job is not done, not even close. And God, in His wisdom, chose you to be one of the builders. We need you. We need your vision and your leadership and your care. We need your reassurance, your voice, your insight. We need your strength and your help and your wisdom. We need your character and your example and your passion. We need your boldness and your friendship and your faith.
When you do what you do, in the power of the Holy Spirit, you fill a critical role in God’s vision for His earth. And like a puzzle piece, nobody else can do that like you do that.
So please. Don’t. Give. Up.
I believe that one day in the not-too-distant future we are going to experience something new and fresh in the world. God is purifying and strengthening the community of believers around the world. I believe the most beautiful expression of God’s love through people has yet to be seen. And I want to go to that mountaintop with you.
“So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up” (Galatians 6:9, NLT).
If you’re a pastor who’s discouraged or thinking of giving up, reach out to someone you know, trust and love and ask them to help you discern God’s next steps for you. If you have a pastor, reach out and encourage them – whether you think they need it or not (I guarantee they do). Or, you might be feeling the tug of God on your heart to become a pastor, go for it! There has never been a more important time to be a pastor.
Pastors, we are praying for you, we love you, and we need you.
