No one is Superman — not even pastors.

Andrew Hebert writes in BaptistPress.com about the spiritual deficit pastors can fall into helping others connect with God.

Few pastors take care of their own souls in the midst of taking care of the flock. Many lack disciplined rhythms of spiritual, relational and physical health. The busyness of doing the Lord’s work can sometimes crowd out the intentionality of being in the Lord’s presence. Most pastors identify with Martha much more than we do Mary.

Where does it all come from? Hebert says that work starts with sermon prep and moves on to the various responsibilities for any church facilities, the needs of the congregation, along with a laundry list of other causes.

Some of the fatigue comes from the inescapable responsibilities of pastoral ministry. Sermon preparation, for instance, is a round-the-clock responsibility. I have jokingly said that preaching is in some ways like pregnancy – you give birth to the sermon on Sunday morning and then find out you are pregnant again on Monday morning! There is no real way to leave this work at the office. I carry the sermon around in my mind and heart all week long, at all times of the day and night. And that’s just sermon prep!

Those who suspect they are suffering from burnout should call a counselor and try to find time to relax — even if it means forcing that time into their schedule.

Read the full article here.

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