Ministry is a front row seat to the best and worst moments in people’s lives. Weddings, births, baptisms, conversion, calling, mission are mixed in with death and divorce, illness and sin.
Life is hard.
Ministry is hard.
How easily we can become discouraged as we pour ourselves out in preparation, and leading only to be met with apathy or critique. How easily our hearts default to grumbling and complaint, bitterness and resentment when we feel unsupported, and under appreciated. If you have been involved in ministry vocationally or as a volunteer for longer than five minutes I’m sure you have encountered these realities in yourself as well as the people you serve. Here are a few things which have helped me fight discouragement and fight for joy in my serving:
Speak Truth. The Psalmist commands his soul: ‘Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise Him, my salvation and my God (Ps 42:5).’ We must fill our hearts and minds with truth - the truth of who God is and what He says, what He has done, and who we are, because there are always serpents in the garden whispering lies.
Gratitude. Over and again in Scripture we see God calling His people to remember. This is why they build Ebenezers - visible, physical reminders of God’s help, provision and faithfulness thus far (1 Sam 7:12). Look back, remember, how has He proven Himself faithful, good and kind to you? What are the Ebenezers you need to raise?
Get Outside Of Yourself. When we are discouraged, we can easily be tempted to think exclusively of self - my problems, my circumstance, etc. Fight against selfishness, pray for others, be present to the needs, desires, hopes and fears of those around you. How can you pray for your team, leaders, pastors, and yes, even your enemies right now?
Laugh. Life and ministry can be so ridiculous that sometimes you just have to laugh. Maybe not in the moment, maybe not for awhile, but finding the humor in the absurd and over the top can be such a release from taking yourself too seriously even as you take seriously your role.
How have you learned to fight discouragement in your own ministry context?