Yes, that is how we do it!

 

When I was working on my Masters Degree in Biblical Studies, I was slightly amazed at the number of pastors who were LONELY AND DESIRING RELATIONSHIPS. There were hints, sometimes even bold statements, that pastors were supposed to work at not becoming too close with their congregants. I know I am new to PASTORAL MINISTRY, so I might be missing something, but I just disagree with that method of pastoring a church. 

God himself desired relationship, so much that he created us. He loves us, wants to be with us, and wants us to be with him. Since we are created in his image, doesn't it make sense that we also need authentic, deep relationships. I thought about that while I was reading Paul's letter to the church at Thessalonica.

"For we speak as messengers approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News. Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts........ We loved you so much that we shared with you not only God's Good News but our own lives, too." (1 Thessalonians 2:4, 8, NLT)

These two verses are not in opposition to each other. God has entrusted us with the GOOD NEWS and we are not to try to please people over God. He knows what we stand for. Then Paul, in verse 8, tells us how he lives with his congregation. He not only shares the good news he shares HIS LIFE, TOO!

YES, that is how we do it. I don't care if you are a pastor leading a church, someone leading a discipleship group, or someone mentoring, we are all called to SHARE LIFE with those we are discipling, pastoring, or mentoring. There is nothing aloof or isolated about Paul's ministry. He still is unafraid to share the harder truths. He is still not trying to please man over God. He built a relationship that can handle the truth even when it is uncomfortable. You can tell he had an authentic, deep, abiding relationship with this church. 

I can never imagine myself living an isolated life as a pastor. I really wouldn't even know how to do that. That is a lot easier as the pastor of a small church. Maybe that is a good reason to avoid building these mega church models. We need relationship as pastors and leaders. I need relationship. Relationship, friends, closeness to others, is a joy in life. Relationship is a motivation, an inspiration, and a calling for each of us. Don't neglect to draw close to others you are ministering. Love them, be a family, be a friend, enjoy their presence and let them enjoy yours. 

Heavenly Father, I praise you for my church family and those I continue to draw close to. I pray your guidance in our flock. I pray we all draw close, working united, as one family, going out into the world to draw others to the King. Thank You Lord for the gift of relationship. I am truly blessed. Amen!

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If you haven't repented of your sin, accepted what Jesus did for you on the cross, dying for your sins, or if you have not committed your life to Jesus, TODAY could be that day. give your life to the Lord. 

"because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved." (Romans 10:9-10, ESV)

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