Serving a church in a ministry role can be very challenging. Yet, there are some things you can do to get out in front of some of the challenges. For example:
Y0u are far ahead if you are committed to maturing in Christ. Pay attention to your own spiritual formation. Whatever spiritual disciplines you practice should in some way help you to mature and become more Christ-like. Christian ministers are not perfect. However, church members ought to be able to see their ministers taking the call to Christ-likeness seriously. Include spiritual disciplines in your daily and weekly schedule. Growing and maturing in Christ is a never-ending process.
You are far ahead if you are dealing with the pain from your past. The problem for many of us is that we have pain and emotional baggage that we bring into a church but fail to acknowledge this burden even to ourselves. We stuff it or bury it deep within. However, this only contributes to the aching loneliness that we feel as individuals. Such aching loneliness can prompt us to seek relief through pornography, alcohol, an affair, etc. In moments of anger or fear, the pain may be expressed negatively, damaging relationships and our reputation. Seek healing for any unresolved issues of hurt or pain so that you can be available to serve and minister to others.
You are far ahead if you are maturing emotionally. Many ministers experience a limited influence because they often behave immaturely. Perhaps the elders witness this behavior. The other ministers at this church may be all too aware of this person’s immaturity. Perhaps other church members have even witnessed this minister’s immature conduct. Immature ministers have a way of wearing a congregation out. They are often high maintenance and unpredictable. Self-examine your behavior and strive to react maturely in your interactions with others.
You are far ahead if you nurture your friendships. Many ministers have hundreds of acquaintances and very few friends. Often, ministers feel alone and isolated in their leadership role. They may find that it is challenging to have friends within their congregation. Godly friendships can add much value and support to your role as a minister.
You are far ahead if you have a passionate commitment to Christ, the gospel, and the church. A minister can read the right books, have a social media presence, and be in demand as a speaker. However, when a minister has lost any sense of a passionate commitment to Christ, the gospel, and the church, the minister and the congregation have lost something very valuable. Sermons cannot be tweaked enough to compensate for such a loss. Commit to an intentional, passionate daily walk with the Lord and you will reap spiritual renewal that will no doubt bless your church community as well.