Practical Church Newsletter ⛪️

TOGETHER WITH

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One of the things you have a front seat to as a pastor is the roller coaster of emotions we experience in life.

On a recent Sunday alone, I had a conversation with someone who is excited about starting a new job. An emotional conversation with someone else whose sister was just put under hospice care and has less than 30 days to live.

I met with another couple struggling with family strife on both sides of their family and wanted counsel. And chatted with another about their plans for Christmas as they stressfully try and navigate the holiday as a newly married couple who must decide when to celebrate Christmas with their and their spouse’s family.

Ministry is a constant reminder that, regardless of appearances, everyone is dealing with something.

As a practice then, we must let this reality impact our preaching, conversations, and interactions with the people in our churches.

A good first question to ask yourself when someone frustrates you is not “why did they do that” but rather “what are they dealing with”?

And how can we lead our people with conviction and grace.

I have found that one of the best ways to do this is to simply acknowledge that people may be going through something hard.

For example, when preaching about generosity, also acknowledge that some situations (being a single parent or dealing with a medical issue) may impact what you can do in this season of life.

When talking about fleeing from sin, talk about the importance of holiness while also emphasizing the grace of God.

We are leading a wounded people. It doesn’t mean we should steer them in a certain direction, but we should consider how we are doing it.

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Who is one person in your life you know is having a hard time right now that you could send a quick text of encouragement to?

More Resources to help you in ministry 🙌

Here are more ways you can get the help you need:

1. Join the Practical Church Facebook group. Connect with 2,300+ pastors and ministry leaders to get help and feedback from others.

2. Check out Mission Support so you can enjoy being a pastor again.

3. Shave 10 hours off your workweek and get back more time to get everything done. 

P.S. The thief that stole my diary and my Bible died today.

My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

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