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What’s Up: Too many pastors are neglecting their personal faith formation, treating it as secondary to their many other responsibilities.
So What: A pastor’s spiritual growth isn’t just important—it’s foundational. If you’re not actively cultivating your faith, your ministry is suffering, and so is your church.
The Point Is:
Faith Development Can’t Be Delegated: No one can deepen your relationship with God for you. It’s not a task you can hand off or ignore without consequences.
Scriptures Are Meant to Speak to You: If your Bible time is solely for sermon prep, Bible study, and educational preparation, you’re missing the point. It’s good to study intentionally – it’s better to sit at the feet of scripture and let the Lord speak to you (think Mary vs Martha).
Prayer Requires Listening: Prayer isn’t just talking to God and spitting out your blessings list; it’s listening for his guidance and presence. Silence for listening is an essential part of the conversation.
Personal Worship Fuels Leadership: Your private moments of worship set the tone for how you lead corporate worship and inspire others.
But … Wait, Wait! There’s More
Let’s face it: most pastors are stuck in traditions that keep them overworked and spiritually underfed. They’ve inherited an unspoken job description that piles on endless responsibilities, leaving no room for personal faith development. But here’s the truth: the job of faith formation cannot be outsourced or ignored. While members can and should handle administrative tasks, pastoral care, and other duties, no one can step in to grow your relationship with God.
Your spiritual health is the cornerstone of your effectiveness as a leader. If you’re not engaged in scripture for personal insight, praying to hear God’s voice, or worshiping privately, your leadership will run dry. Daily spiritual habits—like (1) listening prayer, (2) devotional scripture reading, (3) personal worship, (4) faith encouragement, (5) doing good deeds in Jesus’ name, and (6) faith-sharing (evangelism)—are the practices that sustain you. They’re not optional; they’re essential.
Action!
Block 30 minutes today to engage with God—read scripture, pray, and worship with no agenda but to deepen your connection. Need structure? Start with our Sacred Thoughts Journal.
