In life there are a few things we can do to extend, or at least try to extend, the years that we live. These keys can also be used in the life of our ministry.
Booster Shots
Measles, mumps, chicken pox, polio are all on the decrease and nearly eradicated in areas where immunization is available and widely used. With immunization comes protection and longevity. It is far preferable to avoid illness through preparatory treatment than treat the illness once contracted. One of the major reasons people stop ministry is because of burn out.
We need to prepare and protect ourselves from burn out if we want to survive in ministry. To prepare we need to add things to boost and strengthen our calling and our capabilities. Just as with the training for a marathon we avoid certain things to become the best in our fields we must add to remain strong.
Take the time to visit other ministries or other ministry leaders. Learn from them, take from them, and enquire of them. You will get invaluable ideas and suggestions by sourcing from others who are doing what you do. Rubbing shoulders with other like minded people also encourages and guides. Attend conferences and seminars and read as much as you can. Books, blogs whatever that boosts your skills and ministry calling.
Invest in yourself and then continue to get booster shots. Never feel that you have made it. The world, your ministry, life is constantly changing and you need to adapt and keep up with the changes. This is important for you and your team. Encourage them and pass on what you have learnt to boost them as well. There is strength in numbers. Do not do ministry alone. Share in the lives of your team personally and professionally.
Genetics
The greatest key to longevity is probably genetics. If you are born into the right family with the right genes then you are probably going to live for a long time. Unfortunately we cannot choose our parents.
The greatest key to success in longevity in ministry for me personally has to be that I have served alongside family and friends. My husband, my kids and even a few of my brothers and sister in laws serve in Children’s ministry. We are very like minded.
Being of one heart and mind helps maintains longevity when we are doing the hard yards of early mornings, long nights and heavy week ends. Without the support of those we love and cherish, in and around us, ministry can become a struggle. If your family is not able or willing to get on board then at least share with them regularly why you are doing what you are doing and share your successes. This will help them to stay positive about what you are doing and they are more likely to support you at least emotionally.
So my keys to success in ministry include:
- Moderation
- Diet
- Exercise
- Happiness
- Booster shots
- Genetics.
Include as many of these in your ministry and your walk and hopefully you will succeed and last the distance.
Have you been in ministry for a long time? I would love to hear how you sustain yourself and your team. Please comment below as we can always learn more from others.
