Practical Challenges in Ministry

Discouragement

Many causes of discouragement in ministry

For Timothy, the doctrinal unrest that existed among some of the people of his church in Ephesus.

1 Timothy 1:19–20 ESV

holding faith and a good conscience. By rejecting this, some have made shipwreck of their faith, among whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme.

This unrest was difficult for Timothy to face. Things were getting too contentious and too stressful.

So when we read Paul’s words of encouragement at the beginning of this same epistle, we understand better why Paul was urging Timothy the way he was:

1 Timothy 1:3 ESV

As I urged you when I was going to Macedonia, remain at Ephesus so that you may charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine,

So, that’s one potential cause of discouragement in the course of our ministries. Challenges within the church

But there’s also the possibility, in fact, the likelihood of challenges outside of the church that can lead to discouragement. Often these challenges are related to our families..... wives, children etc.

My 2020 Experience

elder board fell apart

both my girls got married within 6 months of each other

my in-laws moved in with us

COVID

about 10 people from our church family died

several others moved away

some left because of doctrinal positions

some left because of how we responded to COVID restrictions

more recently, my son declared himself to be agnostic

John 4:34 ESV

Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work.

Preaching as therapy