Into the Unknown (of vocational ministry)

Sweet naive little souls

When John and I married in 1994, we knew God had called us to a life of ministry together. This was exciting to me, but also somewhat foreign. I looked forward to dedicating our lives to following God’s call, but I had no idea what I was getting into. 

While we were engaged, I remember shopping for a washer and dryer in Sears with my dad who took the opportunity to point out, in the midst of all the shiny appliances, that it was likely that John and I wouldn’t be able to afford the type of things I was used to if we pursued ministry as a vocation. (Thanks, Dad. Noted.) He was right. Vocational ministry is not typically accompanied by an impressive paycheck.

"But think of all the benefits!" I thought to myself in the Sears Whirlpool section. My young adult self assured my dad that I would be fine, that I didn’t really need all the financial perks, that all I wanted to do was be with John and serve God! (Insert all the heart-eye emojis that didn’t exist back then as well whatever emoji expresses complete young-girl-naivete.)

Now, I wasn’t completely wrong. There have been so many benefits and joys to serving God vocationally. John and I have enjoyed being on the same team, having a common mission and pursuit, and working together toward a kingdom-oriented goal. We have loved learning more about the Lord as we have been sanctified, talking about the growth together, and sharing what we’ve learned with others. You really can’t put a price tag on this kind of vocational fulfillment.

But my dad was right, too. My adult life has been very different from the life I experienced as a child. Yes, our budget has always been fairly tight, but that hasn’t been the hardest part to be honest. Living a life of ministry is going to be opposed. Unfortunately we have an enemy in the spiritual realm who does not want the kingdom to advance or any ministry effort to succeed. There have been times during intense ministry I have strained to look over my shoulder to see the back of my shirt… “Do I have a target on my back?” I have asked somewhat tongue-in-cheek. I couldn’t see one, but it sure did feel like it was there.

Another challenge I have experienced in vocational ministry is lack of support and encouragement. Sometimes it feels like we pour out and not much else goes back in. The places we would normally go in order to be filled are the places we’re in charge of (namely, church). We are in the business of nourishing others, but often have trouble finding places to nourish ourselves. And we are certainly not alone. I am confident that anyone in vocational ministry can relate to this problem.

Tight budgets, spiritual opposition, lack of support (among other challenges that ministry leaders face) can work together to contribute to frustration, burnout, quitting, or worse. After 30 years of vocational ministry, John and I are looking forward to working together to help mitigate the challenges our Christian leaders face daily. If you know someone who could use our coaching or encouragement, contact us. We'd love to help.