Pastoring is not a light task or easy role. It can bring a person to the highest of highs and lowest of lows. Being a pastor requires a God-given calling. Paul told Timothy, “This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of bishop, he desireth a good work” (1 Timothy 3:1). The following provides a few key insights for navigating the pastorate.
Be Aware
Being a pastor is more than preaching. You have to know what the spiritual and physical state are for the people you lead. You need to know what is going on in the world and your community.
Be Available
Shepherds smell like the sheep. That is because they are with them. Social media means that we can be near people in a virtual environment 24/7, but nothing can replace hugs, handshakes, and physical presence. With that, not everything requires physical presence. Sometimes we need to take the call, answers the text, and read the e-mail (or a good hand-written letter). If you miss one of those, respond quickly. Let people know that you are not ignoring them and that you are there for them.
Be Approachable
Stay humble and welcoming. You should challenge your people to grow by your preaching, but if you always speak past your people, they won’t see you as someone they can approach. Approachability means you are trustworthy and likable. You can be considered as a teacher of God’s Word that can help people with questions of faith and life if you are approachable.
Jeremy Kamer Ministries 