Jim Martin: Many of us wrestle with the sheer amount of work to be done, not to mention the overwhelming nature of the emotion involved. We go from funerals to weddings to a child’s soccer game, all of which elicit different emotions. What can a person do to remain emotionally healthy while in ministry?
Lynn Anderson: True, the emotional toll of ministry can gradually erode our emotional and mental health. In fact, the torque on the psyche can be so distorting that I recommend that ministers periodically go through some sort of psychological analysis — whether through some introspective "self-examination" instrument or book or retreat. I even recommend occasional sessions with a counselor or mental health professional as a sort of "gut-check." That can sound unnerving, but possibly the very fact we fear or resist that idea may itself be a red flag.
Of course, by all means I have to get regular exercise — I walk and jog several miles, three to five times a week. This clears the cobwebs and releases the "happy" endorphins or whatever they are.
In the heat of ministry, we absolutely must find a rhythm between "service and reflection," between "the masses and the mountain," between "giving and receiving." Between people who are "draining" and people who are "energizing." I can go flat when I keep "giving out" without "taking in." But on the other hand, I can also go flat by "taking in and taking in" without "giving out" — become bookish and detached — flat. Also I find it emotionally and spiritually refreshing to build variety into ministry functions — so I am not stuck on a daily treadmill, but get re-invigorated by a change of pace, scene and task.
Good music and good books feed me as well — even quality novels and the classics. And, I need time to just plain have fun, with Carolyn or the family, or friends. Just rare back and laugh a while.
After reading Lynn Anderson’s thoughts about staying fresh, I would enjoy hearing your own. What do you do to stay fresh? What has been helpful to you? Is this a challenge for you?
Thanks for the excellent interview, Jim. Great stuff and helpful for all ministers!Keith L.
Keith– Thanks very much Keith. Lynn says a great deal in few words. Good to hear from you. Hope you are doing well.
I come to the garden alone
While the dew is still on the roses.
And the voice I hear falling on my ear the Son of God discloses.
And He walks with me and He talks with me
And He tells me I am His own.
C. Austin Miles, 1812,
Larry Wishard, Denver, CO
Great advice, and I am glad that Lynn is from Canada too.
Babysitting my grandchildren rejuvenates and refreshes my outlook. Attending my favorite prayer meeting is uplifting. Right now am allowing for simply doing nothing and letting God do His work in me. After 23 years working full time at the same place, now just working half time, I have given myself permission to doing just what feels right to hubby and me on my days off. That may change – but it’s been good for a couple of months.
Karin–This sounds like a good season that you are in. Thanks for passing on to us what it is that adds freshness to your life.
Matthew–Thanks! Hope you are doing well.
Larry,From long ago, these words still carry such meaning. Thanks.