Podcast Episode #462
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Burnout is a real issue for many, and pastors are not exempt. Today we discuss how church members can help their pastor avoid it.
Some highlights from today’s episode include:
- There are times that need ministry on a 24/7 basis. But there should also be times when that’s not the case.
- More often than not pastors either don’t know how to take time off or just don’t take time off.
- One of the biggest things you can do for your pastor is to defend the pastor to critics.
- There is a correlation in how joyful a pastor ministers and how joyful a pastor’s family life is.
The eight tips we discuss are:
- Let the pastor know he should not be 24/7
- Be an encourager
- Insist the pastor takes some time off
- Respond to critics for your pastor
- Become a prayer intercessor for your pastor
- Help protect the pastor’s family
- Find ways to help the pastor’s family have fun times together
- Pay your pastor reasonably
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Feedback
If you have a question you would like answered on the show, fill out the form on the podcast page here at ThomRainer.com. If we use your question, you’ll receive a free copy of Becoming a Welcoming Church.
Dr. Rainer,
Congratulations on your retirement! You have been an exemplary leader for all of us to pattern our lives by in every position God has called you to! I can’t wait to hear about the new venture you mentioned, but most of all I look forward to hearing and seeing all the many ways you’ll be able to impact all of those grandchildren for Jesus’ fame and glory!
Enjoy this new season of life to the fullest!
Sincerely,
Jim
Thank you so much, Jim.
Lot of gold there, Thom and Jonathan. Thanks!
I would also suggest that churches provide means for counseling when burnout becomes crisis level. Some pastors do suffer from mental illness as you alluded to in your opening statement. But the expectation that a pastor should never suffer in such a way (Where’s your faith!?) will make seeking professional help nearly impossible. When church members see that happening, they should kick the stigma to the curb and provide the assistance that is needed. Alternatively, denominational ministers could help facilitate that…but that’s another blog.
Thanks!
Good word, Bob.
I have admired your work and leadership from a distance over these years as I served as a pastor and university president. I appreciate your spirit and convictions. I pray God will continue to bless and use you in your continued service..
Tom,
Congrats on your retirement and I pray that God gives you wisdom as you seek to follow His Will in the next chapter in your life.
On a side note, I will be glad not to hear anymore references to Alabama football!!!
It’s not much, but one of the things I do is text an encouraging word from scripture to my Pastor several times a week. It only takes a minute, and he always tells me it blesses him.