Full-Time Ministry, Part-Time Christianity? A Personal Struggle for Balance
Are we listening?
Today’s musing is probably more for me than you, but I figured it could be useful for someone else that may find themselves in a similar place. For much of my life, I've walked with Christ, served in various capacities, and led others toward spiritual growth. Yet, despite decades of ministry, I find myself grappling and, sometimes, even struggling with maintaining a vibrant or even mediocre personal walk with the Lord. The thought, as referenced in today’s title, of being a full-time ministry leader and part-time Christian is something that I have been chewing on for quite some time. I don’t remember where I heard the idea, but it had a large enough impact that I put it in my notes app on my phone to marinate on. Does that describe me? Does that describe you? I think if we are honest, we have all been there at some point in our lives.
This marination came to completion this week as the Lord showed up and reminded me that my profession or career in ministry is nothing without a personal walk with Him. Anyone else feeling that conviction today? God is gracious in these gentle reminders, isn’t he?
That gentle reminder showed up in a very simple form this past Sunday, in a seemingly mundane moment in church—a noisy mint wrapper in a quiet room—struck a profound chord with me. In the silence, the crinkle of that wrapper was almost deafening. It was a stark reminder that in the stillness, God speaks, often in whispers that are easily drowned out by our daily noise. How often am I drowning out the voice that matters? I am not sure if you are like me, but I love surrounding myself with sounds/noise—podcasts, books, music—constantly filling the air. But in that moment on the back row of a church in Knoxville, I had to ask myself, what divine whispers am I missing amidst all this noise?
This isn’t just my challenge; it’s a dilemma many of us face, especially those of us in full-time ministry. How do we ensure that in our service, we don't lose our core, our center, our connection with God? I don’t want the good work of ministry, yours or mine, to inadvertently overshadow yours or my personal walk with Christ.
The Paradox of Professional Christianity
Being immersed in the work of the local church or in a ministry directly or indirectly connected to a local church is undeniably fulfilling, yet it carries a hidden hazard—the transformation of our faith into a series of tasks and checklists. This shift from being to doing can be subtle and insidious, leading us to operate more like CEOs of a religious enterprise than humble followers of Christ. We are often quick to offer advice to others and pray earnestly that they listen; yet, how often do we pause to advise ourselves with the same rigor? Do we listen to our own spiritual counsel, or do we bypass our needs in the rush of ministerial duties? We preach, teach, and counsel others about the love and grace of God, yet find little time to seek those gifts for ourselves in quiet devotion. This disconnect can lead to a dryness of spirit that undermines the very essence of our ministry. I would argue that this is the case for many believers. We are quick to offer God to others yet slow to take God for ourselves.
Maintaining Personal Devotion Amid Public Demands
I don’t pretend to have all the answers, but I do want to offer some thoughts on how to combat this drift. Again, these suggestions are just as much for me as they are to you the reader. Let’s commit to tackle these together and be intentional together to zealously and rigorously walk with the Lord personally as hard as we might professionally. This is not done out of religion or legalism. Instead, this is about us chasing after the Father as hard as He is chasing after us (He always wins this chase, by the way). He, graciously, is willing to run the entire way, but why not run toward him as He runs toward us?
The key to sustaining a heartfelt connection with God lies in intentional spiritual disciplines. Setting non-negotiable times for prayer and meditation, engaging in regular personal Bible study, and carving out moments for silent reflection are essential practices that keep our faith alive and thriving.
Sacred Time for Sacred Work: Just as we prioritize important meetings or ministry service, so too must we guard our time with God. This means scheduling daily appointments with Him that are as immovable as any other critical engagement. Where is He on the priority list?
Spiritual Retreats: Sometimes, we need to physically remove ourselves from our regular environments to reconnect with God. Whether it’s a day-long retreat or a weekend away, these times apart can refresh our spirits and realign our priorities. I do this a few times a year with some dear friends that serve in similar ministries to me and this time is non-negotiable and is a priority because the Lord always shows up and shows out! I highly recommend you finding a group to do this with. We pray, we worship, we strategize, and we have fun.
Technological Sabbaths: In a world ruled by screens, regular breaks from digital devices can help quiet the mind and open the heart, making space for God’s voice to resonate clearly. I will admit, this is probably the most difficult one for me. That device in my pocket connects me to the world and all is has to offer, but I must be reminded that this little device also connects the world to me and all the nonsense it has to offer. That world shouldn’t have full access to me and I must turn that device off so that my mind can turn to something much greater.
Be Open and Attentive: The more we set our sights on Him, the more attuned we become to His voice. By continually seeking God in our daily lives, we enhance our ability to recognize when He speaks and offers those gentle reminders. This practice also sharpens our discernment, helping us to distinguish His guidance from the noise and nonsense of the world.
Don’t Just Take My Word for It
A vital example of the need for quiet and solitude in our spiritual lives comes from the life of Jesus Himself. As recorded in Mark 1:35, "And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed." This practice by our Savior underscores the essential nature of withdrawing from the busyness of life to connect deeply with the Father. Jesus’ example is a compelling reminder for all of us, especially those in ministry, to find our own desolate place where we can nurture our relationship with God without distractions.
Balancing full-time ministry with a vibrant personal walk with the Lord is challenging but essential. As we strive to lead others, we must not neglect to lead ourselves closer to Christ. Let us take time to listen in the silence, ensuring our ministry flows from a deep and personal place of communion with God.
This week, I encourage you to find a moment each day to embrace the silence. Whether it’s early in the morning, during a midday break, or in the evening, turn off the noise and listen. What might God be trying to tell you in these quiet moments? Share your experiences with a friend or mentor, and discuss ways you can help each other maintain this crucial balance.
As I close today I would like to leave you with a chorus from a great hymn. This is my prayer for you and for me. Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
Just a closer walk with Thee
Grant it, Jesus, is my plea
Daily walkin' close to Thee
Let it be, dear Lord, let it be