Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:8
Every once in a while you come across a book that should be read repeatedly. Other than the word of God, there have been a handful books were strategically powerful in my growth as a spiritual leader. Some were due to timing and stage of life. Others are much more timeless. For 2022, I’m going to share one of those with you each month in hopes they might be equally impactful for you and those you serve.
Intimacy with the Almighty by Charles Swindoll, while helpful for all believers, has special significance for those in ministry. Pastor Chuck wrote it to crystalize his reflection during his 2+ year interlude between pastorates. The catalyst was coming to see how enslaved we all- including pastors- are to the busyness of our lives. So busy in fact that many are operating on spiritual fumes. (p. 9) I have been there. I imagine you have as well. This book came to me early in my first pastorate and thankfully, graciously confronted my drivenness to overwork at the cost of abiding in Christ.
He reminds us that God invites us to go deeper (p. 16). Our God is deep beyond comprehension. His wisdom unsearchable and His ways unfathomable. Yet, He invites us to draw near, marvel, worship and spend our lives deepening in Him! I wonder that this is part of what will keep eternity from becoming boring!
He quotes Richard Foster lamenting that the pace of life keeps too many in our world including pastors living shallow lives. When this happens not only are we missing out but we live with little of value to offer those God has called us to serve. The answer is simple but we must be intentional. We need Intimacy with the Almighty!
Continue reading Book Highlight: Intimacy with the Almighty
The Pastor's Life 