In Their Shoes...

Parenting is hard work.
Anyone who says otherwise, I venture, hasn't been a parent.
Likewise, pastoring is hard work.
Anyone who says otherwise, hasn't been a pastor.  

It makes me think filling both roles is a recipe for exhaustion. Especially, if your ministry is kids and teens.

I'm reminded of the comedy bit from Jeff Foxworthy...

"...by the time we get to church, I need church. I've done yelled at everybody in the car."

There's a reason pastors are burning out...1500, 1700 a month now. And missionaries, following suit. Not at such a staggering rate; but a pretty good clip nonetheless.

The frustration of constantly trying to get their attention, to follow instruction, to listen to advise, to live Godly lives, to show compassion, to obey...

Are we talking about children or the congregation?

My heart truly goes out to pastors struggling with difficult congregations. And to parents, facing incredible uphill
battles with their kids. Then I remember my own... which pales in comparison to a number of friends of mine, not to mention plenty of others I don't know.

I can't fathom pastors facing both simultaneously. Yet so many do.

Not having a friend to talk to about family issue. About ministry problems. About marital battles.
Not having finances to provide for the home... or advance the ministry.
Not having the tools, resources and people to help accomplish tasks.
Not having the time to get away, relax and regroup.
Not having... time of any kind. Preparation. Study. Prayer. Fun. Faith.
Improving skills as a parent. Becoming a better pastor. When does that happen again?

I haven't even scratched the surface, which begins with the barrage of people who think churches just want your money and pastors have taken on the responsibilities for the same reasons.

So, pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, for pastors facing a double whammy of difficulty; in both the church and the home. Pray for wisdom and direction, in how to best handle the situations they face. May there be discernment for the battles at church; grace for the battles at home. Pray for the strength and stamina to endure; that God would comfort them in the midst of their frustration, whether it be with the church or the family. Pray God would open the doors into their lives to help relieve the burden... friends, provision, resources, rest and reprieve and time...to take care of what's important; to draw closer to Christ; to become all that He has in store for them to become.

For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

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