Podcast Episode #581
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Today’s episode is an important topic in the life of the church leader. Anxiety could come from a number of sources including staff, congregational members, elders, or other church expectations. Thom and Sam give some tips on how to find help and stay healthy.
Here are the five common responses to overload:
- They go to a favorite place to pray
- They set a goal to accomplish one thing
- They take a few days off
- They exercise
- They join a community of like-minded leaders
Other highlights:
- A good pastor will help carry the weight of their congregation.
- Sometimes church leaders feel like firefighters rather than pastors.
- Anxiety comes from people and tasks.
- We need to take away from the negative stigma around mental health. Don’t be afraid to seek professional help.
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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.
I am a regular reader and listener of yours. I appreciate much of what you have to share and the practical nature of it. This article is very helpful, but I must admit I think it is important to make one comment regarding the last point above regarding mental health care. I think we need to be careful and make a distinction between mental health care and soul care. While I understand there are truly organic problems that need to be addressed by trained physicians, we also need to understand that an evolutionary view of anthropology has driven society to deny the existence of a soul and conclude that any problems are all physical/organic and must be treated so. Many of the problems people face have started from an improper view of God and what God is doing in their lives. This can lead to physical side effects. As a trained/certified Biblical counselor, I have personally seen people get their theology corrected and with the consent of their physician come off of the psychotropic drugs they were using and no longer need them. As believers in God’s Word, may we be careful not to take our cues from those who reject the teachings of Scripture.
Thankful and humbled by the shout out, Dr. Rainer. Church Answers Central is such a gift to my life and ministry. Grateful for your efforts in bringing together likeminded ministry leaders so we may grow in our love for Christ through serving His church!
You are a gift to so many of us, Stephanie.