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As a young leader in ministry, this is something that is important to me. It’s something that, no matter where you are in your ministry journey, still rings true and provides value to your walk. The reality is that we are all called to ministry, whether vocational or not, we are all in this together.
Take care of yourself first – guard your heart.
If you have flown before, you will know the experience that I am about to describe. You know whenever you sit down in your seat and the safety video or demonstration starts from the flight attendants. They pick up the oxygen mask and say something that is very key that most people don’t even listen to. They make sure to remind you to put your oxygen mask on first before you help anybody else. That includes you before your child.
Now…I know that is hard to think of because most of us parents would do anything first for our kids before we did something for ourselves. I get that completely. But here is why I think this is so important. In order for you to be able to operate at your best, you need to be healthy and taken care of. Whether in the airplane or in the office, your health (spiritual, emotional, physical, mental etc.) is crucial. Take breaks. Go on vacation. Spend time with family and friends. You are not defined by your success and accomplishments. God does not have a time card for you clocking you in and out. Do things that give you life and that you enjoy. It’s not only important but it’s needed to continue on our ministry journey.
If you do well with what you have been entrusted with, you’ll get more responsibility in due time.
This is a lot easier said than done. I know it is hard to go through seasons where you feel like you should be in another role or position. You ready for the answer? Trust God and know that He is faithful. His timing is perfect. Don’t force open a door that you know is not opening. Whatever you have been given to shepherd, do it well and let God take care of the rest.
Honor your Senior Pastor.
Honor your leadership, specifically your Senior/Lead Pastor. God has called and appointed them to shepherd your Church. Trust God and know that He knows what He is doing. I heard someone say this before and it’s so true, they said, “Honor your leadership and God will honor your leadership.”. Live a life of honor, especially your authority that has been ordained by God.
Be patient and faithful, God’s timing is perfect.
“The day you plant the seed is not the day you see the fruit.” I have heard too many stories of people giving up because they don’t feel like they are making a difference. I have seen this too many times. When I feel times like this, I rest in Galatians 6:9, “Let us not become weary of doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest in due time.”
Ministry is not easy. It’s hard and a lifetime journey. But it’s worth it. That is why it is so important to take care of yourself and stay in tune with the Holy Spirit. Fight the good fight!
