Almost every week, I am deeply aware of how little I have to offer unless the Spirit helps me. I’m amazed that he so often uses what I have to offer. It’s a reminder that our confidence is not in our own abilities, but in the Spirit working through the word.

I think I know the worst parts of being a pastor. One of them is the hurt that’s involved. Every pastor I know, at some point, experienced the relational pain that Paul describes in 2 Timothy. The other worst part is the sense of one’s own unworthiness. Godly pastors know how far they have to go in their own sanctification, and have a deep awareness of their need for grace and strength to carry out the tasks of ministry.

I know the worst parts, but the best parts are too many to mention.

It could be the joy of spending time in God’s word. I just spent the day working through two chapters of Scripture as I prepare to preach. In a couple of weeks, I get to stand in front of God’s people and share what I’ve learned and how it applies to us. It’s an awesome task, and I can’t believe I get to do it.

It could be the privilege of seeing God at work in the lives of people. I get to walk with people and care for their souls. I see some of their deepest struggles as well as their growth. I get to love people.

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