Diagnosis

Well, I think it's official. I'm getting older.

For those that no me in real life, you're probably chuckling, because you very well might have a few years on me, so I still have a ways to go... and that's fine. I just said I'm getting older, not old. (haha!) It's Monday morning... just had to make sure you were awake.

So why the realization? Like I didn't know this was happening? No, I did. Of course, social media helped; as yesterday it pulled up a photograph memory from 7 years ago... "wow, look at that. My gotee has no gray hair!" But secondly, for the past few weeks, my body has been having a weird reaction throughout the days. 

And I've yet to figure out it. It's coming and going. Daily. Waking up and it's hardly an issue. Going to bed, and it's like "what in the world??" It's really getting frustrating. And I can already hear Dad response when he reads this.  Love ya, Dad.

So, last night got me thinking... about diagnosis.

Pastors struggling in ministry, trying to figure out things out; perhaps on the edge of burnout. Going through the very same progress. Irritated throughout the day, but when they can actually relax and get their mind to calm down and de-stress, everything settles down. They feel okay. They look okay. Everything might be okay. Then the day starts. Stress starts kicking back in; mind starts ramping up; and we're back to trying to understand situations and figure out problems.

By the days end, perhaps they too are standing the mirror. 
"What in the world is going on?"

Burnout is irrespective of tenure, by the way. Sure, the pastor of 25 years may have an easier time justify their state, but that doesn't dismiss the younger pastor, perhaps of only 5 years who's had a really rough time getting off the ground and wondering how can continue.

The struggle is real. And it's frustrating.

Pray with me, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors trying to figure this out. Pray they never stop seeking the face of God; that He would bring insight and revelation to the direction He would have them take and the decisions they should make. Pray the Holy Spirit would comfort them and bring a peace and calm to their hearts and minds. May they not be overcome by a spirit of anxiety and worry, depression or fear. May there be a quiet confidence and strength in knowing God; trusting His ways and believing for the miraculous, as He works His plans and purposes in their lives and ministries.

Whatever the diagnosis,
God is with you.
He knows; He cares
He is willing and able.
Keep the faith, my friend!

- PNC