This ministry stuff is hard. I’m not sure why. At times I think it’s the expectations of people. Other times I think it to be the rigorous schedule. Then I come to the stark realization, often it’s the expectations I have for myself. Self imposed expectations can strangle the vitality out of one’s life. Vision becomes eclipsed while daily living is spent groping through the fog. I guess in some respect, we’re our own worst critic. I know that I am. These expectations can be anything from a simple to do list to a certain set of behavior traits. Before long I’ll seek self worth in the completion of a list or in a certain appearance. If I mark them off, I’ve achieved success. If I have the appearance of holiness, then I must be – right? Watch out! That’s when this stuff becomes more of a religion than a relationship. It’s not the expectations of self or of others that matter; these are of little value in the scheme of things. God’s expectations of me are what matter most. The older I get the more I realize His greatest expectation of me is presence. I need His attention and He wants mine. It’s the time to be still and know.
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About Brad
I'm a Christian, husband, father, son, pastor, speaker, and author living in Mechanicsville, VA. I have a passion for the church and its leaders. Read more...
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Great ministers don't just happen. Great falls from ministry don't just happen either. A complex mix of factors, both internal and external, test the limits of your ability to minister wholeheartedly over the long haul. Discover how a self-care strategy can make a difference for you.
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Hey man –stumbled onto your blog–it’s ok to hold yourself accountable and keep yourself in check. Just be sure to give yourself some grace too! I enjoyed reading.
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