There’s absolutely nothing more important than your health. I think most of us would agree with that statement; however many of us, including myself, certainly don’t act like it. We don’t exercise, we don’t eat right, we’re stressed out, and our marriages are struggling. Combine those things with the pressures of leading a church, and you have a recipe for disaster.
In the past two years, I’ve gained 20-25 pounds. That may not seem like a big deal to most people, but considering I had remained at the same weight for the previous 20 years, it was a sign that I wasn’t as young as I used to be.
I have allergies, acid indigestion, and anxiety, especially around big events like Easter and Christmas. And I’m not even a lead pastor, so I can’t imagine the pressure of being one.
But I know it comes with a cost, and often that cost is our health. So, let’s take a moment to do a check up. How would you answer these questions?
Physically
- Am I overweight?
- How often do I exercise?
- Do I eat healthy?
- Am I taking any medicine because of poor health choices?
Spiritually
- How often do I spend time with God?
- Do I enjoy it?
- How’s my prayer life?
- How often do I read God’s word for personal enrichment?
- Am I struggling with sin?
Relationally
- Do I have a best friend I can trust completely?
- How many other true friends do I have?
- Do I enjoy being around people in my church?
- Am I a part of a small group or Sunday school class?
- Do I have someone investing into me?
Family
- How is my marriage?
- Is my spouse happy I’m a pastor?
- Are my kids happy I’m a pastor?
- Do I have a monthly date night?
Emotionally
- On a scale of 1-10, how stressed am I?
- If money weren’t a concern, would I still be pastoring?
Do everything you can to protect your health. It’s the most important thing you have.
What other questions should pastors be asking themselves? What would you add to this list? Leave a comment and let me know. If you’re ever struggling and need someone to confide in, please shoot me an email. We’re in this together, and I want to see you healthy and loving what you get to do.
