Workaholics. You’ve got them in your church, and at times, you can relate to them yourself. A workaholic is a compulsive worker: he chooses to work a lot, think about work, and then work even more. What does the Bible say to workaholics? Ecclesiastes 6:7–8 says, “All a man's labor is for his mouth and yet the appetite is not satisfied. For what advantage does the wise … [Read more...]
10 ways to be certain your pastoral care is helpful
When we care for one another wisely, three things should happen: (a) the person being cared for should be blessed, (b) the love of Christ should become more tangible, and (c) our faith should grow. Sometimes our attempts at caring can be done unwisely, resulting in unintended consequences: (a) the person being cared for is enabled, (b) the love of Christ is misrepresented, … [Read more...]
Equipping your leaders to give good parenting advice
One opportunity your ministry leaders (elders, deacons, small-group leaders, etc.) probably will have at some time is the opportunity to advise distressed parents. Unfortunately, the advice they give might not be appropriate. People tend to give advice based on their own experiences. Thus, experienced parents tend to share what worked in their households and assume these … [Read more...]
How to prevent leader burnout
I know how easily a Christian leader drifts in the direction of burnout. By the time I turned thirty-seven, I was dangerously close. Having talked to scores of others over the last twenty years, I see more clearly the mental and emotional pieces that breed the sort of disillusionment where you wish you were playing golf—not leading a workshop on God’s grace. Burnout is not … [Read more...]
What’s the best way to help someone with anxiety?
Amy can no longer remember a time when her mind was “at rest.” She really thinks she needs to get a job, because there are rumors that her husband’s construction company might have to lay off workers. She used to work at a grocery store, but was glad when her husband wanted her to quit and be a stay-at-home mom. As a cashier, she often was flustered by customers with … [Read more...]