Tips For Young Pastors.

I’ve been on a Craig Groeschel kick lately.

Maybe it’s due to the fact that we have similar backgrounds (out-of-control frat guys, partying our brains out any chance we got who were radically changed by the Spirit of Christ). Or maybe it’s the fact that he has a knack for saying semi-inappropriate things that most people think pastors should not be saying (besides incredibly profound insight in his book, “It”, he’s also generous with “poo” and “pee” stories from his children). Either way, I think Craig has some really good stuff to say.

Below is a list he compiled for Outreach Magazine, a list of advice containing bits of wisdom he wishes someone would have given him 20 years ago (he’s now 40). Here are a few of my favorites from “Advice For Young Pastors”:

Don’t take yourself too seriously.

Ministry is a marathon, not a sprint.

Jesus cares more about the church than you do.

You can’t please everyone…so why try?

People will criticize you. Quit whining. Get used to it.

You can’t do it all. Stop trying.

If you blame yourself for the bad results in ministry, you’ll likely also take credit for the good results.

Become close friends with other pastors in your town (as many as you can).

Your kids will be grown before you know it. Don’t sacrifice them on the altar of ministry.

Your ministry isn’t your god. God is your God.

You know how to give and how to minister to others. If you don’t learn how to receive, you’ll burn out and/or die.

Believe in people that others overlook.

Your integrity matters more than you can imagine.

Take care of yourself. Eat right. Rest. Exercise. Take time off. No one else can do that for you.

If you don’t take much time off, it’s because you’re proud, and you think you’re more necessary than you really are.

Talk about Jesus every time you preach.

Love your wife more than you love the church. The church is Jesus’ bride, not yours.

Compliment, encourage, and build up your staff and volunteers.

Hand write thank you notes.

Any older pastors out there have anything to add to the list? Let us know in the comments.

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Contributor: Justin Wise

A religious deviant who enjoys coffee, collared shirts, spending time with his wife and son, learning about quantum physics and creatively exploring the riches of the Spirit of Christ. Culture + Faith + Technology. Contact the author

Apehead

I like Craig Groeschel too. Started listening/watching about 2 years ago. I am glad you're diggin his ministry too. I like this list. It's not just for Pastors. Hope you are well JMW! Love,
apey