Three Basics That Bring Us Back To Pastoral Center

This week at 200churches.com we have been on the topic of turning around a messy church. Every church is messy, and there are no perfect pastors.  Whenever we get off track as pastors, it is usually in one of the basics.  There are three basics that should not be messy in our lives. Here are those three basics and what we should focus on:

Focus on Scripture – The only truth we have.

When I read long sections of scripture, I usually think two things:  1) Wow, this is really wonderful, God’s word is awesome! And 2) I really should read long sections more often, I miss this, it’s so enjoyable! The Word of God really is health to our body and encouragement to our spirit. We just cannot find truth like it anywhere else.

When we have a steady flow of God’s word into our head and heart, we think better, we feel better, we make better decisions, we relate to others better, and we live better. How have you been doing with your Bible intake? It’s always time for me to read more of the Bible and to enjoy the wonders of God.

Focus on Relationships – that’s all life is about!

Sometimes as pastors we spend too much time on administrative tasks, office work, study, reading, computers, smartphones, blogs, etc. If we find ourselves getting dry or dispassionate in ministry, it’s time to get together with some of those 200people!

Relationships are life giving. Friendships are necessary. Communication, affection, care, and community are all important to our spiritual, emotional, and physical health. Ministry is about people, not stupid office stuff! Let’s take some time to stop and say hello to people. Let’s not miss engaging in relationships.

Focus on Integrity – without it we have no credibility, authority, or power.

It’s hard to always do what you say and say what you do. But when our life actions are in alignment with our life words, things work better. How are you doing in the integrity department? If you lack it you lack a lot. If you have it, you are blessed, care-free, less stressed, and at peace.

When you step up to preach the Gospel to people, it doesn’t come out right if you don’t have integrity. It also doesn’t do its work in you if you don’t have integrity. We need to be people of truth and character, leaders with integrity. Ministry does not go too well without it.

Three basics, like your ABC’s and 123’s. Scripture, Relationships. Integrity. Which one do you need to pay most attention to this weekend?