Pastor, Refuse the “isms” of Life and Ministry

The worst disease in ministry is the “isms” disease. I have seen this disease ruin pastors, stealing life and joy from them. Pastor, refuse the “isms” of life and ministry.

The “isms” of life and ministry

Every person and pastor can contract this disease. The “isms” disease is beyond epidemic, even getting close to a pandemic level. What are these “isms”?

Skepticism

Skepticism occurs when we doubt the truth about something. As pastors, we have to deal with people who cast doubt upon the truthfulness of what is being said or done. Usually, this skepticism is more about the practical side of ministry and how we are leading something, or questioning why we would do something. Yet, there is also a growing skepticism about the truth of God’s Word and why we would believe and teach certain truths.

I have discovered the skepticism of others can become contagious. When someone casts doubt or creates suspicion, I have to work hard and pray daily that I will not become skeptical toward them, others, or situations. There is nothing attractive about skepticism. It is a terrible disease for any Christ-follower to have, especially church leaders and pastors.

Criticism

Criticism occurs when we pass severe judgment about someone or something, usually resulting in faultfinding. All leaders lead through the grind of criticism. Politicians, community leaders, educators, coaches, CEOs, and yes, pastors, are under the eyes and within the voices of critics. Criticism has become such a part of the American lifestyle that it is out of the norm to be positive and encouraging to others.

Skepticism usually leads to criticism. When we begin to cast doubt or create suspicion, we move into the mode of evaluating others or situations severely and unfairly. It also endows us, or at least we think so, to evaluate prematurely. By the way pastor, James 1:19 was written for us also,

“Everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger,”

By the way, there is nothing that attracts people to someone who always wants to evaluate everything and everyone. Above all, pastors and church leaders need to be people who are quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger.

Cynicism

Cynicism occurs when we have an attitude of scorn about others that leads to a general distrust of their integrity or motives. This open dislike or disrespect of others is demeaning and never God-honoring. Pastors can easily become cynical because we are often asked our opinion about something, and we are always the recipients of the opinions of others. Quite honestly, a cynical pastor or church leader will never be maximized for God in His work.

Skepticism that leads to criticism always leads to cynicism. Who do we think we are, to question the integrity and motives of others? Who do we think we are, to openly demonstrate our dislike and disdain of others, often showing complete disrespect? We can stand for the Bible and God’s Truth without being disrespectful and cynical toward others. When you are around cynical people, you will become cynical. You are not immune to this disease!

God is never attracted to skepticism, criticism, or cynicism. As pastors and church leaders, we need to run from each of them. Do not believe the devil’s lie in trying to spiritualize these “isms” in any way.

Pastor, REFUSE the “isms” of life and ministry

Aggressively refuse to take the “way of the flesh” in relating to others or situations. How do you refuse the “isms” of life and ministry?

1. Pray for discernment.
2. Seek a clean heart.
3. Be filled with the Holy Spirit.
4. Be wise in your friendships and influences.

Pastors and church leaders, it is time we listen to the advice we give to our children: The vast majority of people become what they read, watch, listen to, and who they hang around in life. We are no exception to this grim reality.

Yours for the Great Commission,

Ronnie W. Floyd