2 Decisions That Help Me as a Pastor Daily

I was asked a very interesting question the other day that really moved me to evaluate the answer. A pastor asked, “Ronnie, I look at your challenging schedule, and I want to ask: How are you doing this and keeping up with everything?” After thinking a moment, I told him there are two decisions I make daily that have helped me in every way.

The same things I told him, I share with you today. Please know before I continue, I am where I am and do what I do by the grace of God and the prayers of God’s people. Knowing this, here are the two decisions I make daily that help me continually.

Decision #1: I Never Compromise My Daily Time With God 

It does not matter if my flight is early or my schedule has caused me to be out late the night before, I never compromise my daily time with God. For those who know me and have kept up with me through the years, I always give my mornings to God. While some of this can be challenging due to appointments and speaking engagements that occur in the mornings, I never compromise my daily time with God.

In my time with God, I focus on reading and meditating on God’s Word, and read through it at least once annually. I focus on a strong commitment to prayer, developing and changing my prayer list and priorities continually on my iPad. Toward the end of my time with God, I always journal a one-page prayer.

My time with God is the way I start my day. He is my priority, above all else. Whether it begins early, as it does usually, or a little later, it is always the way I begin my day.

God is my strength. His Spirit is the wind that lifts me up continually. As I wait before Him daily, He renews my strength.

Decision #2: I Do Not Compromise in Taking Care of My Body  

Six days a week, I spend an hour in physical exercise, fitness, and training. Typically, I run four days a week. The other two days, I spend an hour with my trainer. He challenges me greatly, never taking it easy on me.

The advantage of developing a “jogging lifestyle” is that you can do that anywhere, at any time. Most hotels have treadmills if the weather is bad outside, but nothing refreshes the body and relieves the stress more than a run outside. Whether you are traveling or at home, running will help you. If you cannot run, walk. Develop a pattern in your life. It will help you.

When I am exercising alone, I listen to podcasts of sermons or on subjects that will help me fulfill my calling more effectively.

Pastor, it is Your Decision Daily    

Daily, you decide what you will do with your time. This is not a matter of busyness, but a matter of priority.

Daily, I prioritize my time with God, never compromising it. And daily I choose to take care of myself physically. As a side note, on a typical morning, I spend at least 3-4 hours in my study preparing for my Sunday sermon, writing, and preparing for other speaking engagements.

You have to decide what will help you. May God lead you to work through all you have upon you as a pastor.

Yours for the Great Commission,

Ronnie W. Floyd