|
A pastor
who is spiritually, physically,
mentally, and emotionally vital and
healthy can accomplish much for the
Kingdom of God. To that end, I
strive to maintain a balanced and
healthy approach to all areas of my
life. Spiritually, I have a major
priority to keep a close and growing
relationship with God and to be the
spiritual leader of my family.
Physically, I have a responsibility to
exercise, get adequate rest, and eat
appropriate foods. Mentally, I must
commit to being a lifetime learner.
Emotionally, I must foster a great
relationship with my wife and children
and keep healthy friendships. From this
perspective the following values emerge
(in order of importance):
-
My personal
relationship with God
-
My
relationship with my wife
-
My
relationship with my children
-
My calling
as a pastor
In the
American culture today, the average
person's feeling about pastoral
integrity and lifestyle, and leadership
in the church in general, has dropped
to alarmingly new lows. While I
am not a perfect individual and don't
claim to be, I believe Scripture gives
us guidelines that can help pastors
lead without hindering the work of the
church or shaming the name of Christ.
I believe several passages of
Scripture from Paul's writings provide
the framework for how I discern how to
live "a life above reproach". For a few
references,
click here.
In addition
to the Scriptures listed above, I
believe it is important to, 'abstain
from all appearances of evil", and "to
think of others more highly than I
think of myself".
I do not
strive to be a legalist when it comes
to lifestyle issues, but the following
behaviors are detrimental to my role as
a leader, and I have chosen to make
clear decisions regarding how I choose
to live my life. I do not drink
alcohol, use tobacco of any form, use
illegal drugs, gamble, or view
pornography. I am careful in my
selections of entertainment and media.
I also attempt to be honest and
truthful in all relationships and
business dealings. When dealing
with the opposite gender, I use proper
guidelines (open door, other people
present, no car rides or trips alone)
to ensure that accusations of
impropriety are not raised.
By following these principles in my
life, I have found a true freedom to
lead without worrying about being
misrepresented or misunderstood.
|
