Not long ago my wife and I experienced a series of frustrations in our house. First, our electrical system began to develop problems—with lights going out, or not coming on at all. Then, our furnace stopped running in the coldest days of winter—and we learned that we would need a new furnace immediately. And finally, at this same time, one of our cars lost its transmission and were forced to find another automobile in short order.
No doubt you may have experienced frustrations like these—or have felt them piling up all at once. That’s what makes frustrations so . . . well, frustrating!
Ministry also has its share of frustrations, too.
But far too many times, we hold on to the belief that ministry should be easy sailing, that there will never be challenges along the way, or that problems can be solved quite easily or quickly. But the fact is, ministry remains difficult, and seems to become more difficult with each passing year. The stakes seem higher, the problems deeper, and the solutions fewer in number.
One thing is for sure, frustrations can boil over into discouragement or despair (even burnout) if we are not attentive to, or celebrating, our successes and joys.
This week, as you consider your ministry, take a few moments to list your frustrations. It is okay to name them. But don’t forget to make another list of your blessings, your successes, those hopes and dreams that are keeping you engaged in ministry and in life. Don’t let your frustrations dictate your future, but look for those positive markers that can guide your ministry in the days ahead.
