No One Should Pastor Alone!

It is not good that the man should be alone… Gen. 2:18

As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. Prov. 27:17

I like my alone time. Apparently I’m not alone. Statistics reveal that a surprising number of those in ministry are introverts. That means people drain us even though we love them. Restoring our energy happens best alone. BUT I learned early on that no one should pastor alone! Genesis 2 clearly reveals that we are not meant to live alone. God Himself declares that it is not good!

Sadly, too many pastors serve in isolation and disconnection. I have been there, you likely have as well. The reasons for this include geographical distance, busyness and the size of our communities and churches. If we are honest, the greatest barriers are insecurity and its distant cousin… pride. Though it is out of context, I hear Jethro’s voice from Exodus 18 whispering “The thing you are doing is not good, you will wear out yourself and those you serve!” (Exodus 18)

Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ. Gal. 6:2

The Bible shows us a better way. One large theme of God’s word is that the redeemed are being built into one family in Christ. Think about it. All human shepherds are undersheperds. The most powerful pictures of godly leaders involve the help of others. Dear friends holding up Moses’ arms, Samuel learning from Eli, three friends standing together in a fiery furnace, disciples waiting on the Lord in the upper room before Pentecost, Barnabus connecting and launching Paul & of course, Jesus with the 12. What else comes to mind for you?

I believe one of the most important things any pastor can do outside of abiding in Christ Himself is intentionally connecting with other pastors. When this happens. Our burdens are shared by those who understand. Our hearts are reminded of Jesus by caring brothers. Our ideas are sharpened, and our souls are encouraged. When this happens the churches  we serve benefit and the kingdom advances!

I believe one of the most important things any pastor can do outside of abiding in Christ Himself is intentionally connecting with other pastors.

Do you have a group of brothers you connect with regularly? Are your gatherings intentional, encouraging and sharpening? Just like we call those in our churches to do, we need a gathering where we can be authentic, connect in prayer, the word and mutual equipping that sharpens us to live out our calling.

We need each other! If a pastor cohort, cluster or fellowship is available, I hope you will make it a priority. If not, seriously consider starting one. If I can be of any help to you or your church. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25