Ministry Reflection Five
One of the key aspects of a successful ministry is to keep life in balance. I say this not as someone who has perfected balance but as someone who has experienced the pain of imbalance. There is so much pressure to “do ministry” that we sometimes forget to work on the other areas of our life. When we neglect these areas, it diminished our ministry effectiveness as well.
1) Spiritual – Prayer is not something that is just done in public during worship services. Prayer and devotional Bible reading are vital to maintaining spiritual health.
2) Physical – It took me a long time to get around to joining the gym but it has been worth it. It does take some time out of my day but I find that I am more productive in my office time because I am taking care of my body.
3) Emotional – Have some fun! Take some time off and do things that are not ministry related. This is hard for me. To me an enjoyable time would be writing a biblical commentary. But there is a need to go and watch a movie, play video games or just hang out.
4) Relational – A ministry that neglects family is a failed ministry. I try to take time to have dates with my wife. I try to put the computer and books away and play with my kids.
All of these things are very important. I strongly encourage every Christian leader, including me, to work on all these areas.
