Preventing Ministry Failure: A ShepherdCare Guide for Pastors, Ministers and Other Caregivers

The landscape of the modern-day church is replete with the innumerable fallen in the course of heart-felt ministry. A number of significant areas of ministry are appropriately addressed throughout the course of this book: however, I found the author's observation on "Calling: The Power for Effectiveness in Ministry" to be the most helpful to me. I think that the criteria identified are significant to those who dare to accept the "call" of serving in a given aspect of Christian ministry.It is reasonable and healthy to expect those in full-blown ministry to consider "calling" at various times along the way, especially when the going gets tough. Interesting enough, It is during those times that God will affirm His calling once again in our lives. The renewing embrace will often create even greater passion and direction in our ongoing pursuit of authentic Christ-centered ministry. As referenced in James, "Let it [the "tough" times] do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way (James 1:2-4, The Message).Statistically, the occupational hazards of ministry are broadly supported and undeniable. As a pastors kid, I understood this early-on, not only from the pew, but from the parsonage. Needless to say, the rose-colored glasses were removed and crushed under foot before I ever enrolled in seminary. I suppose that I would have submitted to ministry much earlier in life had I not been so negatively impacted through the difficult experiences as a PK. At the same time, when I did enter ministry, I had established a foundation of resolve that has accompanied me through the challenges thus far.The authors discuss the important of aligning expectation which may appear to be rather simplistic criterion at first pass, but is all-important in selecting a particular field of ministry. As theologians we tend to spiritualize a "call" to ministry at times without exercising common sense. God has designed us as a square peg, but we are convinced that He wants us to pass through this round hole. Similarly, expectation of the pastor and those of the body should be meticulously inventoried to hedge the "risk" factor of such an important relationship between a pastor and local church body. This is not the time to compromise core values or veil our true identity for the sake of securing a mere job. To do so is to guarantee another ecclesiastical white-water raft ride for everyone involved - without the benefit of paddle or life-jacket.By "calling," I especially like the definition of, "The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet." This captures the essence of ministry and a place envied by all who love people with a servant's heart. The idea of self-nomination is also adequately addressed. We can't call ourselves, and our place in ministry to the body will either be confirmed or rejected by those we seek to serve.Overall, this is a desktop reference for the pastor in passionate pursuit of meaningful ministry in the 21st century. Indeed He is faithful to complete the work that He started in us. He will open and close the doors of opportunity in keeping with His perfect will in our lives as we maintain a sense of spiritual fitness and seek His agenda.

Not as in depth as I thought it might be. Mostly about self-care, taking time off regularly, seeking professional counseling if needed. A quick read about setting boundaries in life to avoid overload

A must read for any ministry leader!

This book has been practical and helpful as a diagnostic and skill building tool to grow me as a leader and help me anticipate places for burnout or failure. Have personally recommended to several people in ministry already.

I wasn't expecting a college style book. I thought I was buying a weekend reader, but instead, got a college course book. I am happy that I bought it, mostly because of the material it covers, but I will have to take a different approach in reading it.

Great book for those who are entering ministry or are currently in ministry. They pose great areas that we need to cover as pastors and leaders that will blindside us if we do not address it. It's the character issues that keep us ministering for the long haul. It's easy to read and has very practical questions throughout. I highly recommend this book and it's best read with others but you can do it on your own.

I would highly recommend this book for ministry interns or new staff in a church. The primary focus of the book centers around common areas of pitfall and disappointment. The book provides one great strength which can be seen in providing keys and applications for the reader to put into practice.For those that have been in ministry for some time, the book reads rather slow and does not seem to find a practical place (if the minister presently engages in truthful relationships of accountability and personal growth.)

This is an excellent read! Every minister needs to go through this after being in the ministry for a few years. It really takes time to complete because it is designed that way. It is more of a workbook, and the authors want you to take weeks (if not months) to complete.