Many business people have had developed a distaste for the church as they perceive that church leaders are just after their money or leadership ability. It’s true that many pastors find business people to be intimidating and don’t ultimately know how to relate. The article attached gives some good ideas on how to show pastoral care to the business people in our fellowships.
Comprehensive Article on Self Care
This article is a fairly comprehensive look at self care for those in ministry. So often there’s a misconception that self care is selfish, but really it’s essential for longevity and health. There is a wealth of resources here which will hopefully help frame a healthy balance.
https://whenyouworkforthechurch.com/2017/01/26/the-best-articles-on-self-care-in-the-church/
Pastoral Care is the Glue
Many of you are familiar with Bill Hybels and Williow Creek Church in Chicago. In this video Pastor Hybels talks about the importance of pastoral care in the life of a church. Where does pastoral care fit in the life of your church and ministry?
http://willowcreek.org.uk/lesson/value-pastoral-care-life-church/
The Isolation Trap
Many of the church leaders I've met find themselves so focused on the needs of others that they neglect to build a healthy community of friends around themselves. If we want to have longevity in ministry and lead in a way that is whole and healthy, it's important that we intentionally bring people around us that will build us up. The resource article below is a reminder of what kind of friends we should intentionally pull around us.
http://www.outreachmagazine.com/features/23010-pastor-isolation.html
A Habit of Fasting?
Do you have a habit of prayer and fasting? How often? How long? Why? When?
Hopefully this article will encourage you to be intentional with fasting and other spiritual formation practices as you lead those in you communities. Share in the comments what habits you've found particularly helpful.