Over 40% of pastors are considering leaving the ministry today. Most of us won't. Instead, we will work harder, determining that our overwhelming stress is an unavoidable part of pastoring. We will set unrealistic work expectations and live with unhealthy rhythms. And we will witness the gradual extermination of the peace that Jesus promised us.
If you're a pastor or ministry leader, you likely struggle with anxiety, sleeplessness, or compassion fatigue. Your body may show symptoms of physical distress, like weight gain, high blood pressure, or heart palpitations. You tell yourself that if you work harder, grow your church more, or tweak your schedule a little, you can eventually alleviate your stress.
But that's not how stress subsides or how God intended us to work. Death by Pastoring will help you identify and change the way you manage your stress by:
Examining the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of stressSharing personal stories and the hope that God promisesAddressing workaholism, expectations, and stewardshipRe-imagining the work of pastoring and being an intentional discipleProviding resources, assessments, and questions for reflection