Secrets of Staying Power

ARTICLE TOOLS

Find similar articles E-mail this page

The occupational hazard of the Christian ministry and evangelism is discouragement.
John R. W. Stott

Those whom the Lord has destined for this great office he previously provides with the armor which is requisite for the discharge of it, that they may not come empty and unprepared.
John Calvin

For a year now I have been talking with pastors from across the country about the joys and the discouragements of their ministries. I have sat in the offices of dozens of these church leaders and read surveys from nearly two hundred more.

With some, I have been privileged to share in the high point of their ministries. "After ten years in ministry," wrote one, "my greatest sense of encouragement has come this year. I'm enjoying ministry." I've seen others in deep crevices: "I've never been so discouraged," said a minister in his forties. "This week I sent out twenty-two résumés."

What news can I report from the armloads of surveys and hours of tape?

A combination of good news and bad news.

First, the good news: Many, many pastors feel fulfilled in their calling and committed to their work. The vast majority of respondents to the Leadership survey said they feel positive about their ministry. Writes a Christian Church minister: "I've seen people changed by Jesus Christ. What else could I do with my life that would really count for something like that?"

The bad news: Thousands of pastors feel lonely, fatigued, discouraged, and ready to quit. Nearly half of all pastors responding to the Leadership survey said they regularly or often feel discouraged about their ministry.

The English Channel, that twenty-one-mile stretch of water between Dover and Calais, is still the ultimate challenge in long-distance swimming. "Ask channel swimmers ...

Like the preview? To read this complete article and 20,358 more in the archive—JOIN NOW! Easily find high-quality, well-researched materials that provide a Christian perspective on topics ranging from headlines to history. Start using this invaluable tool TODAY for preparing your Bible studies, presentations, class lectures, sermons, meetings, and more.
It's easy and quick to join: 2-for-1 Deal. Two powerful resources for 1 great price! A 1-Year Membership to CTLibrary & a 1-year print subscription to the magazine of your choice! Enjoy your first 7days online FREE! Only $49.95 1-Year Membership Plus your first 7 days are FREE! You won't be charged until after your free trial. Only $49.95 1-Month Membership Includes automatic renewal each month. Only $9.95 1-Year for Print Subscribers Special offer if you are currently a print subscriber to Christianity Today, Leadership journal, Books & Culture or Christian History & Biography. Only $29.95 first year Brought to You by Christianity Today Int'l		FREE e-Newsletter! Even if you're not a member you can take advantage of the free "Christian News & Research" twice monthly e-newsletter! Sign up today for the FREE e-newsletter!   Note: Members also automatically receive this free e-newsletter.