Nothing matters more than the life of your own soul, and its health. If your soul is sick, it is not good for anyone. If you are spiritually unhealthy, you are dangerous to others. If you are spiritually dead, nothing of the Spirit at work through you, then you are useless in the lives of others. It is not selfish to think that your soul matters, it is selfish to think it does not.
There are two things you absolutely need, which you cannot achieve yourself:
- the salvation of your soul – the Life given to you.
- the sanctification of your soul – the Life nurtured in you.
Ultimately for all of us, there is only One who can do these for us; working it in and through us – the Holy Spirit.
Sadly, there are many who “get saved” but precious few receiving what’s needed. We who accept the Call to minister, too often lack what is needed in order to “go the distance” in ministry. We may religiously care for the souls of others, but lack care of own souls in the process.
We develop poor habits. Good spiritual formation (including practice of spiritual disciplines) is often substituted with good spiritual information (including practice of sermon preparation; Bible study, exegesis & praxis). However, it is not enough to just be able to read and understand the labels. The contents must also be regularly consumed for maturation to take place.
We confuse pastoral postures. Priority is given to walking with others over walking with Jesus; working for others over working with Him in service. But for lack of wise counsel or mentoring such confusion leads to pastoral “flame out” or “burn out.” Where then comes the advance of God’s Kingdom?
A soul-deep question to be asked and answered in a mentoring relationship is: “How’s your soul?” Such is a gift to both give and answer. Ministry leader – really, down deep, how are you? Are you in touch with your own soul?
—RWO/MAST
Comments by Ric Ochsner