October 19, 2008

Ministry over People

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Within our current churches, ministries are used as extensions of the church’s reach and service. Many churches want to help their members grow as God desires. However, in the process of meeting the needs of the people through various church ministries, the church must not forget the people that run them.

The well-being of ministry leaders should not be forsaken in order to allow a ministry to continue. Sadly, there are many pastors that overlook their well-being to ensure the ‘show’ goes on. One of the main reasons for this occurrence is the pressure of being a successful, thriving church. Many pastors want to have a growing ministry that people rave about and long to attend. They want to have ministries that meet the needs of its people. However, in the process of building a ‘successful’ church, they use the ministry leaders as a means to an end – the successful church.

If you are a pastor, take a few moments this week pray about these statements and speak with your church leaders. You may discover church leaders that are burned out; ‘knee-deep’ in sin; and are struggling personally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. If you find leaders struggling with various issues (i.e. sin, marital problems), will you be courageous enough to allow the leader(s) to be restored, refreshed, and renewed? Will you allow it to continue…or will you address it?!

It is just as important for your leaders to find freedom and joy in Christ as the rest of your congregation. Even if you have to stop a ministry service or two…or three, allow your church ministry to be a place of healing, peace, and rest for all.

For additional information on this topic, please review our book, STAR Power: Four Ways to Transform Your Volunteer Ministry.

^{Photo courtesy of freeimages.com/BSK}