Leaders in Pain

I just read a great article. You can get it at

http://www.typepad.com/t/trackback/1512763

The author says many of the things about pastors and their families that I have been discussing for several years.

The church is the most difficult organization to lead and manage that there is on the face of the earth. One wag commentated that "Ministry is not difficult; it is impossible."

1. The Devil hates church leaders and does everything possible to derail them. This is especially true of those who lead large congregations. I can recount many stories about leaders in very large, dynamic churches who fell ill; had accidents; saw their children struck down; were infiltrated by sick or demonic members; were sabotaged by staff; were accused of crimes by a family member or disgruntled member.

2. Are very, very, very isolated. An isolated minister is toast. Ego, fear of losing face, embarrassment, etc can keep a leader from admitting his failures and asking for assistance.

3. Talking Grace and Mercy but living by the Law and Perfectionism. One of my clients admitted that he preached Grace but always expected perfection from himself. The result was depression.

4. Conflict at home. We can all deceive others but we cannot deceive our wives and kids. I cannot count the number ot times a leader has said something like, "Listen, honey, you cannot say that. It will ruin my ministry". He thinks, of course, that the lies will not ruin his ministry and his marriage. (I have never met a man who fell into pornography or adultery who was not mad at his wife. Anger management is critically important.)

For several years I have focused on helping leaders and their families with free, confidential, professional counseling. I do many workshops, seminars and sermons but I always pray that the leaders will come to me for safe and secure ministry.

Call me if you know a leader in pain