Being a pastor can be one of the most enjoyable and fruitful roles to play in the scheme of God's redemptive story. Not only do you get to see lives transformed by Christ (Col 1:28), but you also get to be an active part of seeing that process and relationship move forward. It is this growth toward being more like Christ that drives what we do. We're driven to see the church grow, people grow, and gospel opportunities grow. However, if we're not careful, the most important area of growth can become neglected, our own spiritual growth.
Howard Hendricks used to tell us that in seminary we would learn more than most people will ever know about God and the scriptures. And yet, that knowledge doesn't always lead to passionate growth. Far too often our passion to grow everything else is stronger than it is to grow our own souls.
Paul understood this tendency and the dangers it presented to the lives of spiritual leaders and pastors. He tells Timothy his young protégé in 1 Timothy 4:16, "Pay close attention to your life and your teaching; persevere in these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers" (HCSB). There is an alluring temptation to allow the external execution of ministry to far exceed that of our spiritual and physical health. It seems that Paul is stating that when you're vigilant with your spiritual health and consistently submitting to God's Word and leading, the external growth will follow. The ability to do this well reflects a deep sense of trust. Read more
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