I’ve never been more burdened to pray for pastor friends. Being a pastor is the hardest job in the world in the best of times. These are not the best of times. 2020 is wreaking havoc in the lives of many pastors & the churches they're leading. It’s a jungle out there. 1/6
Pandemic pressures, cultural upheaval, economic uncertainties, and political divisiveness have created a raft of new complications in nearly every church. Social media magnifies differences of opinion between church members. These issues and others weigh heavily on pastors. 2/6
Several times a week I hear from pastors who are worn out, stressed out, and often flat-out discouraged. Many are in counseling. Many are facing challenges related to marriage and/or parenting. Some are clinically depressed. Tragically, a growing number are suicidal. 3/6
Many pastors are walking away from their churches. Even more tragic, some are walking away from the faith. Many carnal churches are pressuring and sometimes pushing out godly men. Many carnal pastors are falling into sin and failing to serve their churches faithfully. 4/6
Satan hates us & has a terrible plan for our lives. It shouldn't surprise us that pastors are facing spiritual warfare. Pray that God would protect your pastor from temptation, sin, & those who mean him harm. Pray for his family. Send him an encouraging note today. 5/6
And pastor friends, know that you are a hero. You are loved and appreciated by more people than you know. Most of all, you are loved by the God who has called you to this sacred task. Keep your eyes fixed on Christ, get help if you need it, and hang in there. We need you. 6/6
