This week we saw yet another mega-church pastor resign. In the past year there has been a wave of large church pastors resigning as a result of moral, emotional and spiritual issues. This is deeply saddening and these men, their families, and churches need our prayers.
So what happened? They all loved God and wanted to see people find Jesus. No pastor or church leader sets out to self-destruct and train wreck their family or church. Yet, it seems to be happening at an alarming rate. So, what can a pastor or church leader do to ensure they stay healthy and finish strong? This is a question I have been asking God and this morning a verse leaped off the page and the Holy Spirit began to speak to me.
Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith. And many people were brought to the Lord. Acts 11:24 NLT
Barnabas was a strong leader and the church grew under his leadership. We find three traits in the life of Barnabas that ensure we finish strong. These traits are not exclusive to pastors and church leaders. These traits apply to all of us. No matter who you are or what you do these traits will ensure you finish strong.
- He was a good man. It’s about character. I must first and foremost be a person of character, integrity, and honor.
- He was full of the Holy Spirit. I must submit my life fully to God. Whatever He asks me to do I must do and whatever He asks me to change I must change.
- He was strong in faith. I must persevere and keep moving. I must stay strong and believe for the impossible despite what I see or face.
If we do those three things our churches will grow and we will grow and finish strong.
BRAD FARNSWORTH 
The Beat goes on… Every generation. Lots of resources on this. One of best I ever read was Ordering Your Private World 1984 by Gordon MacDonald. Great read and resource. Can buy for a penny plus shipping on Amazon
Brad, great Word. One that has helped me to not over commit is from Acts 6 especially v4.
3Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”
There is so much that can go on, especially good things, that can distract us from what God has specifically called and equipped us for. We want often so want to serve or be seen as servants, focusing on how people see us, that we burn ourselves out and have little left for what we were supposed to be doing.
For me it’s the tug of war of “serving” the “church” and being God’s ambassador or missionary to the the places he’s called me, plus maintain healthy lifestyle (ie: diet, exercise, sleep, quiet, recreation).
Thank you Brad! Bless you!
Judy Conner where are you located?
Good word Brad.Thanks for the admonishment and encouragement.
Love you Brother.
Let’s finish Strong!
Steve
Brad this is great! I have long wanted to put together a place for clergy to come and heal. In fact I’ve looked at a couple of retreat centers for their possibility of putting together a I place of healing /respite.
God has prompted me since before we were in college together but it’s extremely hard to get people to trust that you have their best interest at heart. I am a credentialed spiritual director helping people find the movements of God and reestablish that connection and deep relationship