While the church reaches out to members and the un-churched that are hurting there is a group that is often overlooked. Sadly, the Pastoral leadership, is often isolated and lives in a place with few trusted friends. This can lead to depression and lives that can be torn apart by sin. Last, I checked Pastors are sinners just like you and me. The difference between the Pastor and the regular Joe is that Pastor's have a target on their back from Satan unlike what a church member might have. Satan wants to take down a strong leader of many Christians because he knows that by taking down a Pastor that leads a flock he can take down more than one man. We see it as Pastor's fall victim to infidelity, suicide, and depression. The losses can be devastating. A ministry can die, people may question their salvation, others will leave the church forever.
But we must remember that Satan has been defeated! He cannot win. Victory is ours and the church must persevere!
Has you Pastoral team, Elders, or Deacons counted the cost of the ministry to the Pastoral leadership at your church? Do you have a structure that will provide a hedge of protection, a place of accountability, where your Pastor can come to support him and provide strength for the ministry? We must not bury our heads in the sand and abandon the Pastor by putting a Pastor on a pedestal and ignoring the spiritual warfare that is very real. I would encourage your elder team, deacons, or leadership team to address this issue to ensure that your Pastor and your ministry can ward off the attacks of the evil one.
Pray for your Pastor Daily and create an environment that does not isolate your Pastor. If you and your leadership need guidance in addressing this in your church contact me today at johnm@thechurchconsultants.com. We will work to help you set up a system that allows for accountability and connect you with others that may be able to assist you in a deeper way.
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