If you're a new pastor or have just stepped up to serve in ministry in any capacity - allow me to humbly share a few things I've learned along the way.
- Learn how to relax in your own skin. God called you to be who you are and not someone else. Resist the urge to compare yourself to other pastors or leaders.
- It takes time to feel like you're actually "pastoring" the church. People may call you pastor, out of respect for your office, but there will come a definite moment when you'll feel like you're actually pastoring the church. Don't rush this...it will happen naturally. Some people will only trust you after a really long time of proving yourself, and another group will never trust you no matter what you do.
- You'll only have as much spiritual authority as you're willing to submit yourself to.
Submission brings freedom and promotion. Independence is a train wreck waiting to happen. You cannot ask your people to submit to your leadership if you are unwilling to submit to those over you. A good soldier can take orders from any commander. - Wolves aren't the only ones who bite. Sheep bite too. Although their bite don't kill...the gnawing can make life miserable sometimes. Don't let your emotions get the best of you. Walk out in front of your flock...pushing from behind will frustrate you and exhaust your energy. Expect to be bitten. Stay focused on your vision and do not exhaust your efforts trying to put out fires and giving ear to murmuring.
- The life of a minister can be lonely at times. If you are called to lead people, you cannot be their best friend too. God will give you strength during the lonely times and send you relational encouragement. Cherish the friends God gives you and nourish those relationships.
- Don't make hasty decisions on Monday mornings. Sometimes your brain will feel like oatmeal after a weekend of ministry. You'll be tempted to double guess your message, leadership and capability. The good news is...Monday will pass!
- Keep on preaching the truth regardless of how many people get upset at you. You're called to proclaim the Word - not necessarily to defend or debate it. Preach with passion and leave the results to God.
- Take a vacation. You're not superman. You'll be no good to your family or church if you're beat down. Schedule a day during the week when you can unwind, get out of the office and avoid dealing with church issues if at all possible. Sitting on the couch and watching a movie with your family can do you a world of good!
- Make wise hiring choices.When looking for potential staff members, loyalty & integrity are the most important characteristics. You will also want to consider people who have a great work ethic and who ask "why not?" instead of "why?"
- Celebrate the victories.After you've completed a big assignment CELEBRATE. Giving everyone an ice cream cone is a fun way to say "thank you!" Send thank you cards or appreciation to your key leaders and try to take a breather before the next big event.
