Comments for Pooped Pastors

Comment on The Gift Of Self-Forgetfulness by Steve Johnson

Steve Johnson — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:49:46 +0000

Wow – this is truly wonderful and freeing. I have always known this and believed it (well ok not always). But sometimes I felt like I was the only one.

I love this fellowship of grace – I am almost persuaded to become a Presbyterian.

GREAT ARTICLE by Tullian Tchividjian!!

Thank you Jesus for your grace!!

Comment on The Four Risks & The Gospel by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » Adultery

Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » Adultery — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:30:22 +0000

[...] been exploring Archibald Hart’s thoughts on the Four Risk factors of ministry life from an article he published, “Time To Get A Life”. The risk factors he had found peculiar [...]

Comment on The Four Risks – Arrogance by Tom

Tom — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 03:29:49 +0000

Kent.
Only non arrogant pastors would read an article entitled Arrogance. Your humility has always amazed me! Hope you are well! Tom

Comment on The Four Risks – Arrogance by Kent Keller

Kent Keller — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:03:08 +0000

Hey Tom –

I sure am glad you wrote this for all those arrogant pastors out there who truly need it.

Humbly yours,

Kent

Comment on AbundantLove.org by Jeff Seekins

Jeff Seekins — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 13:50:46 +0000

Paul, Check out Manna Retreat Center just south of Sioux Falls, SD. They used to do something like that when I was in Sioux Falls. Grace to you, Jeff

Comment on “I can’t fix this and I don’t have the energy to try” by Roger Brittingham

Roger Brittingham — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 03:39:54 +0000

My last post here is sobering to go back and read. Alot of water has passed under the proverbial bridge. Two months after posting, my wife decided that she could not go forward in supporting me in ministry. Our marriage was on the ropes.It was a terrible time to see a widening gap between myself and the women I knew I wanted to be with forever. It was only faith in God that saved things.Lonliness consumed me at times, but I kept trusting that God could make us better than we were in the first place. Now our marriage seems better than ever. We communicate, negative and positive aspects of our marriage. I continue on a daily basis to let her know that she is not alone and that I love her. I thank God for the blessing he placed in my life July of 1994.In ministry now,31 months.

Comment on JoePa and Sermon Selection by Sue

Sue — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 12:38:29 +0000

As a young teen, I was sexually abused by my father, who happened to be the pastor of our church. I never told anyone until I became engaged. I knew I had to tell my future husband. I knew this was something very wrong in our family, but I had no idea that it would have such a huge effect on my life.
I’ve been in church my whole life. I not only went Sunday morning, but Sunday School, youth group, Sunday night, Wednesday night and usually a few times in between. I have heard a pastor mention this in a sermon once!
Because of my silence, my father began the abuse on my 2 little girls. My heart breaks to say that this is what it took to get me to break the code of silence. I was scared to stand up for myself, but my rage erupted when my daughters became involved.
Silence is the golden gem that allows sexual sin to survive. Silence is a powerful force. It is a prison for the abused. There are men and women, boys and girls sitting in each row of the church that are in prison.
Breaking the silence shines the light on this dark prison.

Comment on Fall Kick-Off by Zach

Zach — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 18:49:12 +0000

Hi Darrell.

Jesus is so cool! Thanks for taking the time to share with me about Michael. How cool that Jesus worked the way He did through both of us in Michael’s life! I’ll be encouraged for at least a month by this!

I just prayed for you and Michael with great thankfulness for both of you.

Comment on Fall Kick-Off by darrell

darrell — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:48:49 +0000

THIS is some of the email i have been having with my 17 year old nephew..he told me he did not want to follow God so over the last few months we have been talking and this is some of the emails i have sent with your sermon that was on key life. he said he would check it out and well he did…I want to tell you thank you and
thank u so much..and may God bless you

3 NovemberDarrell Sandoval
see you in a few

3 NovemberMichael Thompson
ok

17 NovemberDarrell Sandoval
http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/key-life-network/listen/the-addict-the-accuser-the-advocate-zach-van-dyke-210146.html

The Addict, The Accuser & The Advocate (Zach Van Dyke) | Key Life Network with Steve Brown
http://www.oneplace.com
What do you do when you just don’t believe anymore? Click “Share” below to spread this message!
Share

17 NovemberDarrell Sandoval
http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/key-life-network/listen/he-addict-the-accuser-the-advocate-zach-van-dyke-210147.html

he Addict, The Accuser & The Advocate (Zach Van Dyke) | Key Life Network with Steve Brown
http://www.oneplace.com
How dare you ask for forgiveness again?’ Ever feel that way? Click “Share” below to spread this message!
Share

17 NovemberMichael Thompson
Perfect timing, Ill watch them tommorow. Im super tired.

17 NovemberDarrell Sandoval
http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/key-life-network/listen/the-addict-the-accuser-the-advocate-zach-van-dyke-210148.html

The Addict, The Accuser & The Advocate (Zach Van Dyke) | Key Life Network with Steve Brown
http://www.oneplace.com
You’re free to leave and you’re free to stay. Click “Share” below to spread this message!
Share

17 NovemberDarrell Sandoval
http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/key-life-network/listen/the-addict-the-accuser-the-advocate-zach-van-dyke-210149.html

The Addict, The Accuser & The Advocate (Zach Van Dyke) | Key Life Network with Steve Brown
http://www.oneplace.com
I don’t believe I would have said that! Click “Share” below to spread this message!
Share

17 NovemberMichael Thompson
Perfect timeing as in you sent them exactly when I got on. Had to clarify.

17 NovemberDarrell Sandoval
its in 4 parts but its not really that long so play from the first one I sent through the last…It was so good to see you tonight…it filled my heart with true joy to see you…I love you guys very much..have a good night

18 NovemberMichael Thompson
Thanks for the videos, Ill be sure to watch them today. It was great to see you. Its been so long since I have been there that I was nervous showing up,haha. I love you too, and good morning.

18 NovemberDarrell Sandoval
I know how you feel…its like going back to your old school seeing teachers and friends and being nervous of what they are gonna say….but then after you get there its like you never really left and you see that they are just like you….I will be but around 10:30 -11:00 this mornig I have a bunch of meat and stuff for you guys..see you in a bit..

18 NovemberMichael Thompson
True. I feel like going to church Sunday, but I dont know yet. I can say one thing and its another thing on that day. Alright, Ill see you around 10:30 – 11. Are we feeding the homeless today or some other time?

23 NovemberDarrell Sandoval
hey whats up

23 NovemberMichael Thompson
Oh dang you did send a message,haha, Im sorry, I didn’t see it. Not much about to go to Joshs house until Friday night. Nothing but videos games, How about you?

5 hours agoMichael Thompson
GREAT NEWS OF WHAT GOD HAS DONE!!!!!! I believe God has displayed His grace to me time and time again, over and over, because I believe He has brought me to repentance and restored to me the joy of His salvation. God has certainly showed the beauty of His Son again and what He has done and it is so exciting. Gos is good is an understatement. Thanks you for talking to me and sending the message, its what I needed to hear. I was doing my homework and I was going over in my mind on how much I miss fellowship with God and His word and how I could leave Christ for my sins. And God used that to draw me near. God is awesome and He always does what He promises.”……for He Himself has said, “I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,….” Hebrews 13:5. And a whole bunch more of verses. Praise God!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Comment on JoePa and Sermon Selection by amy

amy — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 04:07:07 +0000

cov-pres.org/teaching/desires.php

Early this year, my husband preached a series called “Consuming Desires,” addressing from the pulpit the very issues of abuse and related topics Dan is known for. Friends, you can do this with the courage and conviction God gives. Start by addressing it in your own heart and life, then shepherd your congregation.
Take back the ground evil has stolen by bringing the truth about the goodness of sexuality and its rampant abuses to your congregation. They are waiting for you to free them with God’s truth…
You are welcome to use the above series as a model…
As an epilogue to the series preached in early Jan and Feb. of this year (2011)…the congregation received the teaching with great courage, and many issues came to light in individuals, families and marriages. It was exciting to be able to point people in the direction of healing, that may not have otherwise occurred, had no one ever spoken of it.
We have since begun ministry in another church, whose search committee chose Ken for his obedience to Christ in preaching truth in all its fullness.
Your people are waiting for you to step out in faith and courage and address the tough issues, partners in Gospel ministry.

PS – Go Dan. You knew this would ruffle the feathers. It’s what you do best. And we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you.

Comment on JoePa and Sermon Selection by Bill

Bill — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:47:04 +0000

I want to thank you for this article. I was sexually abused on at least two occasions by older male family members when I was just a young child. I put this in my subconscience, eventhough I knew it was on the back burner. I became heavily involved in porn as a youngster, which led to other stuff. I hated myself, for I never liked what I was doing. I got married, but still felt like sex was dirty. I could not understand why, until one day about 7 years ago I was going to lunch with one of my church’s ministers. We were talking about something about our church, when like a sledge hammer hit me. I suddenly said I had been sexually molested when I was a boy. I suddenly could remember what happened. To my surprise, I he told me the exact same thing had happened to him when he was young. I didn’t tell my wife for about three months because I was afraid of what she might think. In the meantime, I told only 5 other men what had happened to me. I knew God was opening a door for me when all 5 said the same thing happened to them. These were men of clergy, deacons and one being the president of a large Assembly of God college. When I told my wife, she just held me tightly, loving me more than ever. Since that day, I have made it a point to tell my story to anyone who would listen. I still tell this story, because satan tried to make me feel I that was something was wrong with me. Now I know the real story. God does have a purpose in my life. Never let anyone tell you that sexual abuse doesn’t run rampant in our society. Just start asking and then listening. Once again thank you for this article.

Comment on The 7 Steps to get out of Prison pt 9 – Step 5b: Remorse by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » The Four Risks – Arrogance

Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » The Four Risks – Arrogance — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:22:28 +0000

[...] love Steve’s open, honest vulnerability in his recent vid! He is teaching at the Billy Graham Center and asked for our prayer because he said, “I’d like [...]

Comment on JoePa and Sermon Selection by Mick

Mick — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 21:43:32 +0000

Dan, very well said. It is nice to see someone discuss this issue with the passion and fury that it deserves rather than in the guarded, self-protecting, overly-cautious tone that is so much more common.

Also, No offense to any other commenters, but I think your assertion about the military and some resultant replies have also inadvertently illustrated how easy it is for us to automatically protect our institutions in the face of claims of sexual abuse rather than erring on the side of protecting potential victims. Smells like Penn State.

Comment on JoePa and Sermon Selection by Andrew

Andrew — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 20:42:52 +0000

Renee my heart hurts on your behalf. Thank you for being a voice for those who’s voice has been stolen. Thank you Dan Allender for your prophetic courage in this text.

Comment on JoePa and Sermon Selection by Renee

Renee — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:32:58 +0000

I appreciate that you wrote this article and I fully get your points. As someone who was a molested as a child and have had many friends and some family who have suffered sexual abuse I know that we come in contact with abusers and victims of their abuse every day. We would rather talk about alcohol or drug abuse. That’s safe. Not sexual abuse. Good words you share.
For those praising the military, I don’t in this case. I lived on a military base and was sexually abused by a neighbor when I was a child. I reported it to my parents and thank God they believed me. However, the authorities did not and NOTHING was done. And he continued to live next door to us until he was transferred to another base. See, I was just a powerless kid. He was a man with a job and power. He also beat up his wife often enough. That was never reported. She was just a woman. No one stood up for her. Everyone I knew only whispered about her bruises and black eyes. Shame on us. Abuse is not a private issue. We ought to do better.

Comment on JoePa and Sermon Selection by AJ

AJ — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 03:46:18 +0000

I would like to build on Chris’ points about the US Military and Sexual Abuse. No other organization in this nation goes through as much training about this subject as the military. No major corporations provide training like the Army’s SHARP program (www.sexualassault.army.mil/). No one else in this nation is subject to Title 10 of the US Code (Uniform Code of Military Justice), specifically Article 120.
You write very well, don’t destroy your credibility by making assumptions.

Comment on JoePa and Sermon Selection by Nita

Nita — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 23:11:51 +0000

Much much thanks JoePa! I was a social worker for 20 yrs, leader in our church, am an incest survivor and have watched men forfeit integrity time and time again for the sake of maintaining the statue quo, better known as the almighty dollar. There is no protection for the powerless in this system. Jesus has a lot of feelings about the powerless and i am wondering what it would look like if we started paying attention to His status quo for a change.
Grace to you for this day.
Nita

Comment on JoePa and Sermon Selection by Chris

Chris — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 21:56:59 +0000

In three major assumptions: 1) about the pastors you spoke to (sounded like the super-hero of “stump the chump” in your own version of your message to them), 2) about the under-reporting of sexual assault in the military, and 3) your “promise” that someone near Joe-Pa has been abused, you appeared fairly overstated. I agree that this is under-reported (sexual abuse), but would say that Tamar – a story of a whore-monger, an abuser of women, not a child sexual abuser (and I’ve taught this one, btw) – is not a great example of why pastors are negligent in preaching about this topic, especially since many deal, as I do, with the policies that we post regularly and enforce diligently concerning adult access to children in our nurseries, Sunday schools and children’s activities. Perhaps you’ve under-valued exactly what teaching goes on that is not in sermon form? Are you from a denomination that believes the sermon is the all-mighty teacher? Are there not also conversations arising from daily contact with our congregants and teaching opportunities other than the highly vaunted sermon? (I’m posting from a friend that linked you on FB, and I’m a former cop, as well, so I may not have a fair perspective on this or on your background.)

Sex abuse in the military? (Oh, and I’m a chaplain in the military.) Why just the military? Is it so well-reported in regular society? Would love to hear why you chose the military, as opposed to Microsoft or the White House (since it was recognized as a hostile work environment for women recently – and who needs to bring up interns in blue dresses when talking about the White House?). The military is perhaps one of the best-reported arenas in society for sexual harassment and abuse, given the protections and despite the culture. The rest of society tends just to accept the abuses and move on. I would dare say that the military, while not perfect, is still working very hard on the issue. We get a much more powerful look, simply because those who look CAN look into our situation more deeply than they can in any other institution. When the EPA wants to make a statement about fuel spills, they don’t go to the big corporations. They go to the military exercises and shut us down over a few drops of AVGAS (a type of diesel) spilled in the desert. I doubt you’ll find such a penetrating look into how Senators treat their pages (a la Barney Frank) or how Corporate CEO’s treat their secretaries

And what’s up with the easy assumption that Joe-Pa has been close to someone who was sexually abused? In a society with 1 out of 4 women sexually abused and 1 out of 7 males? That’s not a huge stretch, but it becomes ridiculous to assume that Joe-Pa did what he did out of being silenced by familiarity. Joe-Pa comes from an entirely different generation. They dealt with things differently than do we. Right or wrong, they did not do what we do with it. We can analyze it as being silenced, and add great psychoanalytical language to critique it, but they did things differently.

BTW, what we do is no better. We report it to police, only to allow judges to do the dismissing of the act and the hand-slapping of offenders, rather than us doing the hand-slapping ourselves. In fact, this is what apparently happened in the case of Sandusky – Hand slapping after he apologized before police and a judge that has been very, very easy on him. What all too often happens is that charges that would bring a two-strikes violation (in WA) gets plead to a lesser charge of assault with sexual intent (or just dropping the intent altogether), and the offender either gets a non-strike charge or gets a non-sexual charge altogether. Until WE are willing to punish to a great degree what our forebears padded with a “good ol’ boy” approach (my grand-parents saw “good ol’ boy” as kicking the guys ass when he was found out, not peddling it to an anemic court system), we will never be any better than them. And until we punish the offender, all the “teaching” in church we do (through sermons, ack-gak) will amount to nothing, since no offender will ever be deterred by the threat of public humiliation or a hand slap.

If you want to teach about potential child sexual abuse, let’s teach about Samuel and Eli, or about any other child left wholly in the hands of clergy out of religious fervor (or, in Sandusky’s case, in the hands of the modern sports clergy out of the same religious fervor). If you really want to stop sexual abuse, punish it. Severely. Stigmatize it. Deeply. Our society is widening, not narrowing, the path of sexuality. In fact, why would we even be concerned with Sandusky in a society of massive pornographic addiction, heterosexual promiscuity and homosexual acceptance? There is simply no societal deterrent right now to an ever-expanding palate for those with deviant sexual desires.

As the Church, I agree that we must teach. And I’m not talking about doing so through sermons, but through leadership vigilance and through accountable, inter-generational mentoring. No sleeping alone in the temple with Eli. No minister, anywhere, deserves that trust. But that’s not enough. Punishment MUST follow, and swiftly. We must be politically active in bringing Biblical boundaries to human sexuality. If we don’t do that, all of the teaching we do will have little effect. Perhaps pastors of my era are more aware. Perhaps not. But in a profession that suffers as much from porn addiction as the average society, should we look at encouraging pastors to teach on this, or should we rather encourage them to adopt a different model for their ministry? Perhaps a move from the Corporate CEO model of pastoring to the accountable, transparent and relational shepherd that Jesus taught? I think our pastoral model is the issue, not the lack of teaching. What we teach is an issue of who we are. It’s easier to teach finances and leadership and “10 ways to be a best friend” when that’s really what we’re concerned about.

Comment on An Open Letter to the Senior Pastor from the Youth Pastor by Zach

Zach — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 19:52:07 +0000

Trevor. Great advice about the 12-24 month view. Now if parents could embrace that view!

Comment on An Open Letter to the Senior Pastor from the Youth Pastor by Trevor

Trevor — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 05:07:33 +0000

I’ve been there…this is true.

I especially like the line, “I need you to remind me that what I’m doing is important and that it matters.”

One time an older friend in ministry told me that if you gauge success on a week-to-week basis you’ll go crazy (because teenagers are on-again, off-again). Instead, he said, you’ve got to step back and evaluate over the course of 12-24 months. Have you called the kid who hasn’t been showing up? Have you recognized the contributions of the adult volunteers? Have you told your wife you appreciate her? Those are the things that make a difference in that expanded time frame.

Comment on Self-Hatred and Its Solution by Amy Aldrich

Amy Aldrich — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:32:38 +0000

Beautiful, life-giving truth! Thank you, Lea, for your honesty and for pointing us to Him again…We desperately need to hear this over and over…thank you…

Comment on The Four Risks & The Gospel by Alan Foster

Alan Foster — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 21:28:00 +0000

Hey Tom, that last quote is my benediction every Sunday!

Comment on An Open Letter to the Senior Pastor from the Youth Pastor by Zach

Zach — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 19:57:46 +0000

King Larroux, I appreciate your response…very much.

Comment on An Open Letter to the Senior Pastor from the Youth Pastor by Jean F. Larroux, III

Jean F. Larroux, III — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 19:59:17 +0000

I am not sure the church/world is ready for this kind of Gospel honesty. Zach is obviously living in a ‘Utopian’ fog, I mean what is he suggesting: transparency, humility, honesty, repentance and forgiveness? Zach, young idealistic Zach– the ministry is about shooting your wounded, gaining approval at the expense of others and using the failures of those above you as the first rung of the ladder to success…Silly Zach, if we implemented half of what you wrote then Senior Pastors and Youth Pastors would be friends, sometimes drink a beer together and accidentally give each other REAL prayer requests. How could we keep up the veil of secrecy, fear and personal-caucus-building if we loved each other like this? One day, three churches and two church splits from now you will know that the things you suggest are echoes from some well intentioned lecture on ecclesiology. I wish someone would set this guy straight…or at least keep him quiet…the last thing we’d want our churches to know is that the KING, I mean Senior Pastor, has NO clothes!

P.S. As one Senior Pastor to others, If you find yourself bristling at what Zach wrote you really need to hear it…if you find yourself agreeing then text, tweet or facebook your ‘Youth Guy/Gal’ and tell them you love them! There is a good chance they are sitting at Starbucks with some kid who is half-listening and half-texting. They need to know that the Senior Shepherd loves all of his sheep, even those on the Youth staff! Zach thanks for the kick in the a$$, I’m off to text several people myself!

p.s.s. you christian-cursed first!

Comment on Mobbing by Holly L Wilson

Holly L Wilson — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 02:30:50 +0000

The early church experienced mobbing from pagans all the time. This is not a new phenomenon. It is horrid.

Comment on Mobbing by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » The Four Risks & The Gospel

Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » The Four Risks & The Gospel — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 16:04:57 +0000

[...] It is risky. And being a pastor, well you open yourself up for “Mobbing” (read Vensel’s blog on mobbing). You know the [...]

Comment on FOR SEASONED PASTORS…WHAT I LEARNED ABOUT HAVING OTHER STAFF PREACH ON SUNDAY by larry

larry — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 17:26:19 +0000

Appreciated reading this on a Sunday in which I took a day off from the pulpit and had a staff member preach. I do have energy whereas I am normally drained come Sunday afternoon!

Comment on Her name is Jenny… by Kent

Kent — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 17:39:42 +0000

Hi Lea –

This brought back so many memories of you, your sweet wife, your family and lots of shared experiences. I still see Jenny as a skinny little spitfire, testing all the boundaries, pushing it until Jeane snapped her fingers with that maternal authority ….

Thanks for sharing this. It’s beautiful.

Love to your tribe –

Your old friend,

Kent Keller

Comment on Mobbing by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » Clergy Mobbing Research

Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » Clergy Mobbing Research — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 14:29:00 +0000

[...] Vensel September 20 2011 Tweet Last year I wrote a blog on mobbing: Mobbing is an emotional assault in which a hostile workplace environment is created through [...]

Comment on Deconstructing Moralism by Amy Aldrich

Amy Aldrich — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 16:08:33 +0000

Wow…all I want to say is, “Preach it!” Broken hearts, whether saved or unsaved, desperately need God’s GRACE. There is no other way…beautiful, redeeming GRACE. Thanks, Tulian…

Comment on The 7 Steps to get out of Prison pt 1 – Step 1: Realization by Chrissy Martin

Chrissy Martin — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 12:39:18 +0000

That was WONDERFUL! I am not a pastor, but a lover of Steve Brown and Key Life. What a beautiful way of bringing the wonder of the 12 steps to a bunch of pooped pastors. Thank you for the great message.

Fondly,
Chrissy Martin

Comment on Deconstructing Moralism by Tom Wood

Tom Wood — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 20:49:23 +0000

Tullian. Great thoughts. Reminded me of Chalmers famous note…
“Thus it is, that the freer the Gospel, the more sanctifying is the Gospel; and the more it is received as a doctrine of grace, the more will it be felt as a doctrine according to godliness. This is one of the secrets of the Christian life, that the more a man holds of God as a pensioner, the greater is the payment of service that he renders back again… Salvation by grace – salvation by free grace – salvation not of works, but according to the mercy of God – salvation on such a footing is not more indispensable to the deliverance of our persons from the hand of justice, than it is to the deliverance of our hearts from the chill and the weight of ungodliness. Retain a single shred or fragment of legality with the Gospel, and we raise a topic of distrust between man and God. We take away from the power of the Gospel to melt and to conciliate. For this purpose, the freer it is, the better it is…And never does the sinner find within himself so mighty a moral transformation, as when under the belief that he is saved by grace, he feels constrained thereby to offer his heart a devoted thing, and to deny ungodliness”. Thomas Chalmers

You can get others like this at http://www.gracedagain.com

Comment on Mobbing by KnowTea

KnowTea — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 02:05:07 +0000

I never knew it had a name. So sad that it is common enough to HAVE a name. I could have written this, down to the last detail. It happened to me. It was over six years ago, and I’m still not over it. My children who are old enough to remember it will never be the same. I get so angry thinking about it sometimes, I want to go back and shake those people and scream in their faces, “Why did you hurt us like you did?” It was unspeakably cruel, merciless, and cowardly.

I have written about my experience at my own blog: http://knowtea.com/?p=1010

Comment on Distractive Stories by Amy Aldrich

Amy Aldrich — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 13:17:25 +0000

Forever I will be a fan of all that God does IN and THROUGH you, Dan Allender! Your courage to step into the messes of heart and life are constant inspiration to me…Thanking Him for you and B. and praying for your unfolding story…

Comment on Her name is Jenny… by Denise

Denise — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 15:49:31 +0000

I’m so tired too.

Comment on The Psychology of a Pooped Pastor – Dan Allender by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » How Not to Take a Sabbatical

Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » How Not to Take a Sabbatical — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:34:35 +0000

[...] was at the Pooped Pastor’s conference that I first heard Dan Allender talk about becoming president of Mars Hill Grad School. He said he did not want to be the President, but [...]

Comment on Her name is Jenny… by Haven Conner

Haven Conner — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 19:29:35 +0000

Hi Lea,

I’m so thankful you are still the same wise, flawed (aren’t we all) man who helped me so much. This helped me more than you know. I’m no pooped pastor, but am a pooped mom!

Blessings,
Haven

Comment on Heroes, Danger, Goodness and Prostituted Women by Renee Wurzer

Renee Wurzer — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 19:58:02 +0000

My heart is not big enough to grieve the loss I find in the battle waging in Darfur, the tangled insanity of evil. In “Passport Through Darkness” I rediscover truth: there is no atrocity too large, no story of redemption too small for our God. Rw

Comment on Heroes, Danger, Goodness and Prostituted Women by Rhoda

Rhoda — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 03:51:43 +0000

Just to say that I have read Kimberly’s book and it is incredible. She is an amazing woman with a heart for orphans and God will use her story and her work for His glory.

Personally, she has been an inspiration for me to work thru my “personal darkness” as Dan puts it. So yes, by all means, buy the book!

I think that we as Christians need to wake up to the evil of this sex trade and DO SOMETHING about it. I agree with Dan when he says that too many times the church turns away in “self-satisfied self-righteousness.” We have got to stop doing that! We need to be informed; we need to get involved.

I am speaking to myself here, as well. =) I am heartened to hear of these 4 women who are on the front lines and will definitely be praying for them.

Thanks, Dan, for this excellent post.

Comment on Heroes, Danger, Goodness and Prostituted Women by Athol Dickson

Athol Dickson — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 15:53:21 +0000

A very disturbing post, because it is so true. For every Kimberly Smith in the church, there are hundreds of pretenders; the state of western culture proves it.

I thought you’d like to know we referred to this post on DailyCristo, and endorsed Kimberly’s book. You’ll find it here:

http://www.dailycristo.com/religion/on-fear-and-trembling-and-going-anyway/

Thank you for your desperately needed site. We’ll be telling all our pastor friends about it.

Comment on Mobbing by Digger

Digger — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 11:50:35 +0000

Steve,
thanks for this mate. It was very educational for me. This was my first experience of ministry. My wife and I withstood it for 2 1/2 years before I left, my wife with diagnosed depression which her doctor had quadrupled the strength of her medications to help her cope. Sadly, some in our denomination were against us leaving… seeming to think it was all in our heads or something.
The main tactic seemed to be to be nice to me, but then abuse (literally yell and scream publicly) at my wife and children after I had left to go to another preaching place to conduct the next service.
For us, the best thing was leaving. We are still (Praise the Lord) in ministry, and are in a great church as part of a team ministry. To be honest, I think this is one of the greatest things/helps with mobbing – being in a team ministry. You have someone else going through it with you to talk to and share that burden.
Anyway, it was a good read, and I found it interesting that it happens so often now that they’ve put a name to it. I’ve forwarded it to my wife to have a read of.
Thanks again. Digger

Comment on Mobbing by Glenn

Glenn — Thu, 26 May 2011 20:58:26 +0000

I had my own experience with a mobbing in a church in 2009. I resigned in September of that year. It is now the spring of 2011 and I am finally have assumed the position as a full-time minister in another church.

The devastation you describe is precisely what I experienced. The anxiety and inability to trust continue to hang on even now. This makes it very difficult to serve and love the new people in the church where I am.

Comment on Rethinking Progress by David

David — Fri, 13 May 2011 03:48:07 +0000

What a thought-provoking essay. The hard part about getting rid of my focus on myself is that if I actually try to do it, it’s self-defeating. So maybe I’ll just focus on Jesus and what He’s done, and is doing. Thank you, Tullian.

Comment on The 12 Prisons – Part 21: The Prison of Self Abasement, Part 8 by Pastor Steve

Pastor Steve — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 00:57:04 +0000

AMEN!!! Thank you Steve!! This is some of the best stuff and most needed truth I have ever heard! It’s about time someone spoke up for us pastors and admitted that this “you have no rights” is just a bunch of spiritualizing. I just didn’t have the courage. I’m glad you did.

Comment on Fear and the Fight of Faith by cjchun

cjchun — Sat, 16 Apr 2011 16:45:29 +0000

Great blog; and a great movie to illustrate. This is the struggle I am having.

Thank you

Comment on Giddy-up by Anna Briggs

Anna Briggs — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 18:39:17 +0000

Thank you for sharing your heart. Like Steve always says, “Once you see truth you can’t unsee it.” Thanks for helping me see the truth of what happens to me after days/weeks/months of ministry without a sufficient degree of refueling from the well that never leaves me thirsty.

Anna

Comment on Giddy-up by Daniel

Daniel — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 07:12:36 +0000

Dear Pastor Dan,

Jesus used this post to minister deeply to me. I am a counselor and pastor by profession, and God had used me to help countless “depressed” unbelievers. Many are off medication and come to Christ afterwards. Glory to Him alone.

I cried joyfully reading this post and you write this as if you come inside my heart to read me. Thank you, Pastor Dan.

Daniel.

Comment on I don’t believe God loves me! by Amy Aldrich

Amy Aldrich — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 14:29:04 +0000

I’ve never read that passage in that way – thank you, Lea. I need to remind myself AND others of that truth more often…so simple, so transforming…
Thank you for blessing us with your words.

Comment on Giddy-up by Amy Aldrich

Amy Aldrich — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 14:18:48 +0000

Your words and presence bring laughter and tears…thank you for gift to us, Dan.
And welcome to a site that brings LIFE…I hope it brings such life to you as well.
We are blessed by your presence…

Comment on Mobbing by Rick Anonymous

Rick Anonymous — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 13:02:39 +0000

So, to continue…And, I apologize for the length…
We who know the truth about this man, lets call him Tom, are now being publicly denigrated, and privately threatened. Several people made false child abuse allegations agaist a young woman who foolishly posted a link to the news story on a social website. This happened just this past weekend. The names of her accusers matched two names of those who threatened her.
My years of dedication and service mean nothing to this mob. My honesty and integrity has been called into question. The cruel things stated reveal how un-Christ-like my former friends truly are.
At first, I tried to console my soul. I knew that the family members of our Pastor would be outraged. Then, the attacks spread out to anyone perceived as on our side. We don’t want a side. We wanted safety and accountability and LEADERSHIP from the man we believed loved his WHOLE flock. Sadly, we now have seen the truth about more than just one man. One man threatened my son, because he spoke up, without anger or rudeness. This same man said he will never believe Tom abused his wife until he sees pictures. I was sick in my heart. I know what the police report said happened. I read the bench warrant motion. A judge found Tom guilty, and I know we are supposed to forgive and forget. How can we if he refuses to even admit it? Any of it? He blames everyone else. He called his original victim a liar. She was 9yo when she testified. Can’t any of them understand the terror she felt? All those adults questioning her? That 12 folks on a jury believed her should be enough. They all say Tom’s word is enough.
The mob claims we keep bringing up this ancient conviction. It is, afterall, how Tom started down this road of criminal behavior. At least as an adult. The repeated actions mean nothing to them. Without that first “problem” in his life, Tom would only be a convicted spouse abuser.
I am mostly just confused. How can these people not see that it is the Pastor who caused this? Tom who caused this? We warned them what might happen. All this info is on the web. It was not only possible, but very likely.
And, God forbid Tom had abused a child from the church.
Thanks,
Rick

Comment on Mobbing by Rick Anonymous

Rick Anonymous — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 03:17:00 +0000

Our church is doing this to our family right now. The only difference? It is the Pastor, his family, and their friends, doing it to US. Why? Because we addressed a very serious and specific problem that put the church at great risk.
Our pastor allowed a registered sex offender whose current probation required no contact with minors to hold several positions of authority. This man was a chaperone for a teen rally. In the past he had gone to youth camp. He had transported children. He taught young adults, some with children, and befriended their families. Many kids in the church are brought in by bus. Their parents were never told.
He was recently jailed twice. Once for domestic violence and once for an unrelated probation violation. He has another violation hearing coming soon.
The Pastor and other trustees refused to even consider making any kind of safety contract, even when we discovered that a former member reported the situation to the media. The Pastor had three weeks to prevent the news story from airing. He would not budge.
We gave documentation to these men. None of them cared, some asked for more and more proof that this man was dangerous.
As you can guess, the news story aired.
Within hours, the hatred started.
I will continue with more if you like, but this is still fresh.
Rick Anonymous

Comment on I don’t believe God loves me! by Denise

Denise — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 05:46:18 +0000

Miss your pastoral role. You had a positive effect on our family and this type of honesty and candidness is a huge reason for that. Many thanks to you and your family. You were all like this, and it was refreshing. Hope everyone is well. Glad to still hear your input.

Comment on I don’t believe God loves me! by Kenneth Akin

Kenneth Akin — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 16:30:32 +0000

Hey Lea

So glad to read your blog and know your heart…we surely do miss you at First Prez…I heard you were no longer pastoring your church in Gadsden but are still there..saw you at First Prez when you came for a baptism but didn’t get to speak to you..thank you for revealing your heart and yes it does help. I look forward to seeing you the next time you are in ‘Nooga…Best of everything..

In His Name,

Ken

Comment on Filthy Rags by Lindsay

Lindsay — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 20:23:50 +0000

I didn’t want this blog to end…..I have been feeling like I have on those rags lately, thanks for reminding me where those feelings come from.

I love you,

Aunt Lindsay

Comment on God’s Supra-Plan by Tom

Tom — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 21:44:43 +0000

Perhaps I should have said, instead of Unconditional love, His contra-conditional love. Because God’s love for you is contrary to your condition. Love is not blind. Love sees all and still loves, contrary to what it sees.

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly) #2” by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #9

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 17:08:55 +0000

[...] Mistake #2: Managing My Time and Not Managing My Life [...]

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #5 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #9

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 17:06:38 +0000

[...] Mistake #5: Not Understanding the Way Up is the Way Down [...]

Comment on My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly) – #1 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #9

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 17:06:22 +0000

[...] Mistake #1: (these are in no intentional order)Failing to Understand the Importance of How I Define Ministry Success. [...]

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #7 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #9

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 17:05:42 +0000

[...] Mistake #7: Not Understanding Product Living VS Process Living [...]

Comment on My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly) #3 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #9

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 17:05:26 +0000

[...] Mistake #3: Not Understanding the Difference Between my Goals and Desires. [...]

Comment on My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly) by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #9

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 17:05:10 +0000

[...] “Ladies First” in which veteran church planter wife, Shari Thomas, addressed the tough topic, What I Wish I Had Known About Church Planting from the perspective of the church planter’s/pastor’s spouse. We then took a look [...]

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #4 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #8

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 17:04:24 +0000

[...] Mistake #4: Not Understanding the Difference Between Pursuing the Grace of God and the God of Grace. [...]

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly) #2” by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #8

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 17:04:08 +0000

[...] Mistake #2: Managing My Time and Not Managing My Life [...]

Comment on The 12 Prisons – Part 13: The Prison of Past, Part 4 by Pastor Steve Johnson

Pastor Steve Johnson — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 18:53:40 +0000

Steve Brown – I just love ya!!

I have not been visiting your web site as much as usual, haven’t been able to listen to your radio program as much. But I am so thankful for you and how God uses you to minister to me. You are such a voice of grace but also a voice that tells me “Quit trying to be Spiritual Superman.” Your comments on what John T. Baptist said, “He must increase and we must decrease” hit home.

Hey your stuff about writing biographies and finding our our “roles” is opening up all kinds of “pandora’s boxes”…WOW. God is doing so many amazing things. And yet the surgeon’s knife is as work and quite frankly I am a little freaked out!! Gee thanks!! (Just kiddin – well kind of). My sister who spent over 12 years turning my family agaist me is now wanting to reconcile…I am kind of …relieved and yet cynical. But it is what I prayed for. Much hurt is stirred up and yet much healing is going to begin.

Seriously – I love ya and what God is doing by letting me be the Senior Pastor (the interim pastor at least – by my choice-) is really wonderful.

God bless you and your staff,
Steve Johnson
Pastor of Emmanuel Gospel

Comment on AbundantLove.org by Valentina Friddle

Valentina Friddle — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 20:23:12 +0000

I have been put in charge over organizing an event for our Pastor’s Twenty years at our Church! I don’t know what how we can make this really special? We have a very small Church, maybe 30 on a good Sunday Service! We are in west central Florida so if there is any conferences or retreats that are very affordable please send me info! Thanks so much!!

Comment on Mobbing by Tanja

Tanja — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 21:23:55 +0000

Also, I think that the word for people who start mobbings is: Gate keepers. They contain information and they can foment it into a flurry by poisoning peoples’ minds to get them to do whatever they want.

Comment on Mobbing by Tanja

Tanja — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 21:13:56 +0000

Heather – yes. People enjoy this stuff. In fact, one woman in the community who particularly enjoyed all this (and really helped it fester further) was a regular churchgoer.

Comment on The Confessions of a Pooped Pastor – Steve Brown by » Pastors, Quit Trying to Be Perfect and Let Jesus Love You Buzzard Blog

» Pastors, Quit Trying to Be Perfect and Let Jesus Love You Buzzard Blog — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 20:37:05 +0000

[...] Homework Assignment: Before Sunday listen to Confessions of a Pooped Pastor. [...]

Comment on The T.U.L.I.P. of Communication – Part 1 – Therapeutic by SoJourner

SoJourner — Sat, 15 Jan 2011 23:48:19 +0000

When I look at my congregation of Veterans, I look out and see Felons we have brought out of prison, Homeless we have brought from the frigid cold streets of the Mid-Atlantic, People with brain injuries, PTSD, Bi-Polar individuals, people who have given up on God as the result of 8 years of combat, Women who have Military Sexual Trauma (as well as a few men), Crack/Alcohol/ and other addicts, and the the older Veteran’s whose hair is white with the frost of many winters with cob webs of dementia dangle inside their brains. I feel blessed to have the challenge of serving them. I feel blessed to journey with them, and to be able to share with those who are simply looking to get their lives back.

Comment on The 12 Prisons – Part 12: The Prison of Past, Part 3 by Steve Witt

Steve Witt — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 17:57:07 +0000

If I’m going to write a biography, I need to do my research. I’ve got the next several “visits” with my parents and relations planned out now… I’m going to try to discover the “real story” on my grandparents, great-grandparents, etc. A lot of stuff gets ‘whitewashed’ through time, so many of us don’t actually have a clue what those of previous generations encountered. Wish I’d have had this idea long ago. When you become a member of the AARP-gang, the older-older folks begin to disappear. Thanks for the ideas, Bro. Brown… again… I’ll call you blessed!

Comment on AbundantLove.org by Wayne

Wayne — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 15:41:59 +0000

check out the pastors retreat network.
http://www.pastorsretreatnetwork.org/
God bless!

Comment on AbundantLove.org by Khevan Lennon-Onaje

Khevan Lennon-Onaje — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 20:05:58 +0000

What what a blessing! I will post this on our website devotional and events page! May God continue to bless and keep you!

Comment on AbundantLove.org by Steve Brown

Steve Brown — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 20:00:05 +0000

I don’t know of anything… but maybe one of the pastors here might. Blessings, brother.

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #6 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » Mistake #8: Not Initiating Supportive Relationships

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 17:04:16 +0000

[...] Mistake #6: Not Understanding the Priority of People Over Programs [...]

Comment on My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly) – #1 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » Mistake #8: Not Initiating Supportive Relationships

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 17:03:59 +0000

[...] Mistake #1: (these are in no intentional order)Failing to Understand the Importance of How I Define Ministry Success. [...]

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #5 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » Mistake #8: Not Initiating Supportive Relationships

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 17:03:11 +0000

[...] Mistake #5: Not Understanding the Way Up is the Way Down [...]

Comment on My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly) by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » Mistake #8: Not Initiating Supportive Relationships

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 17:02:54 +0000

Comment on AbundantLove.org by Paul Hansen

Paul Hansen — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 21:36:53 +0000

Steve, do you know of any Pastoral retreats (not necessarily free) in the 4 state region of S. Dakota, Minn. Neb. and Iowa? I’m near Sioux City- thanks – Paul

Comment on The 12 Prisons – Part 10: The Prison of Past, Part 1 by SoJourner

SoJourner — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 13:55:42 +0000

Journey on.

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly) #2” by Roseann Smith

Roseann Smith — Sat, 25 Dec 2010 21:43:41 +0000

[...] to Understand the Importance of How I Define Ministry Success.” • Mistake #2 called, Managing My Time and Not Managing My Life • Mistake #3: Not Understanding the Difference Between my Goals and [...]

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #7 by John

John — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 20:31:25 +0000

After reading your #1, I felt comforted to be in the company of brethren like you. After coming to the USA from Africa and acquiring a College education in theology in Atlanta and afterwards going into ministry back in Africa and “failing”, what hurt most was not the lack of outward success: but the clear lack of correct success perspective as you shared it here on the part of my overseers and my fellow believers in the mission field.

One of my Pastor friends said to me ” are you not angry at God that He failed to do those things you trusted him for”? With all due respect that must have been the first time in my life I heard something so foolish form a minister….making me feel that somehow God is my robot that I could at my will make do the things I please.

Lately the Lord is reminding me of Stafford’s Hymn written in 1871 on a voyage from London when the Captain pointed to him a spot in the Atlantic where his (Stafford’s) wife and four daughters had drowned in a ship that sunk.

“When peace like a river attendeth my soul “when sorrow like sea-billows roll”
“whatever my lot- thou hast taught me to say

It is well with my soul
It is well with my soul

( that deep realization is true success, great success, lasting success)

I feel left in the back woods, overcome by obscurity here in Massachusetts – yet within me and daily in prayers and in his word I see clearly a relationship with My Lord that is alive and full of Hope.

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #6 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #7

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 20:27:00 +0000

[...] Mistake #6: Not Understanding the Priority of People Over Programs [...]

Comment on My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly) #3 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #7

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 20:23:59 +0000

[...] Mistake #3: Not Understanding the Difference Between my Goals and Desires. [...]

Comment on 7 Habits of Highly Fit People by Steve Johnson

Steve Johnson — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 17:22:19 +0000

Thanks for this post. I need to focus on “being fit.” We pastors are guilty of thinking that being fit is not spiritual. That really messes us up. I am just now getting started on getting fit.

I am doing Tae Bo with my son (my whole family used to do martial arts so this is the closest thing to “fun” cardio for me (since I really don’t like exercise). We are trying to eat healthier.

God bless you Mr. McKinney!
SJ

Comment on Mobbing by heather

heather — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 06:16:06 +0000

I can’t beleive people who claim to believe in God and follow Jesus would do such awful things to another human being, even knowing how much they can hurt a person and their family. I never knew people could be so cruel.
Thanks for sharing this story.I never realized that people would just go along with the crowd instead of thinking for themselves. It’s a sadder world for me now.

Comment on I’m Done by Al Dunlop

Al Dunlop — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 15:58:57 +0000

I’ve often prayed that line from Ps.90 – God establish the work of our hands.” Well to be precise I pray, “establish the work of MY hands”… I don’t care so much about the work of those around me, and I don’t focus so much on the finished work of the cross. Instead I keep asking God to establish MY work. Thanks Zach for showing me my folly. Thanks for reminding me that it’s not about me.

Comment on The 12 Prisons – Part 06: The Prison of Guilt – Part 2 by SoJourner

SoJourner — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:52:42 +0000

I see this a lot in our Vets who are experiencing survivor guilt. They did not do anything but survive, while their friends were horribly wounded or died. One with PTSD actually became fully liberated praying Psalm 51, while on our psychiatric ward. He reclaimed his mind, his family and his ability to hold down a job. He had been through combat 7 years. He was guilty, not over what he had done, but over letting a young man die in his arms…something he did not make happen or could not control.

Comment on The Confessions of a Pooped Pastor – Steve Brown by The Collective 01 – Criticize by Creating « breathe

The Collective 01 – Criticize by Creating « breathe — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 22:58:09 +0000

[...] Pooped Pastors (a site for stressed out church leaders) [...]

Comment on The Confessions of a Pooped Pastor – Steve Brown by breathe

breathe — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 22:35:52 +0000

[...] Pooped Pastors (a site for stressed out church leaders) [...]

Comment on When will I feel what I believe? by kerry

kerry — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 17:35:29 +0000

Thankyou lea, your oct, 25th post was spiritually encouraging. between my wife and i our life” resumes” read similar. We have been given tools by some godly councelors and christian ministry through a branch of exodus international. for my brains health and my hearts attitude I use Key Life often as a jump start to daily scripture reading and meditation. One line from a hymn i think reads; his grace has no measure his mercy no end his love has no boundry known unto men, for out of his infinite riches in Jesus,he giveth and giveth and he giveth again.

Comment on The 12 Prisons – Part 02: The Prison of Sin, Part 2 by Steve Johnson

Steve Johnson — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 15:43:26 +0000

THANK YOU!!!!! I have listened to Part 28 of the Prison of Sin more than once. I love to hear the part where you say, “You’re forgiven.” I already believed that …but it is so nice to hear others say it to me. God bless you Steve Brown because you are SUCH A BLESSING TO ME!!!!

Comment on A State of Mediocrity? by Steve Johnson

Steve Johnson — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 01:03:25 +0000

Steve – I just love you! As I pastor dealing with issues I went to see an old friend (from seminary) who just happens to be a counselor.
He told me that I really need to find “grace teachers” that can help me not be too hard on myself and can make me laugh. You are that guy for me. But much more!!! I am really getting to know Jesus better!!

God bless – Steve & Renee (By the way I am back in the ministry , pastoring a small church and LOVING IT!!!)

Comment on How To Avoid Burnout- Two Simple Disciplines by The Loved One

The Loved One — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 16:46:45 +0000

Good stuff! Amen! Could you also include some scriptural support- such as Jesus’ numerous retreats to the wilderness, etc.?

Comment on Ministry Coaching 101 — Getting Past Pooped by Tom

Tom — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 19:56:48 +0000

Keith. well I was wondering if someone would make a comment about your post…and Kerry stepped up. I waited for someone who follows the post to say something about what you wrote.
Maybe most didn’t cause they feel exactly what you feel…overwhelmed and pooped from similar type ministry assignments. If so, that is why Steve and company formed Poopedpastors…
I want to echo one thing from Kerry’s post, but ask it rather than state it– do you have a ministry coach? If so, what does the coach say about your activities? If not, why not? You are coaching others and see the value they have by having a ministry coach…
If Jonathan Edwards was right (and he is most of the time), then in his book Freedom of the Will, he suggests that everyone is doing what they LOVE to do. No one is forced. I mean this in the most pastoral way I can say it via a blog post… What you are doing is what you Love to do. Something behind the busyness. Something which is what you are centering life on…and it may be ministry. Identify that. And a good coach can help you find out what it is.

Comment on Ministry Coaching 101 — Getting Past Pooped by kerry

kerry — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 17:43:03 +0000

stop stop stop. you feel like your in some pastoral DEBT. that statment tells me you need to speak to another coach and pastor who is well seasoned in ministry. maybe restructering is needed as a lay pastor. you can say how many hrs you are available to work for the LORD.

Comment on Ministry Coaching 101 — Getting Past Pooped by Keith

Keith — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 14:56:04 +0000

How can I say this, I am pooped from coaching. I am an ESL prof and a lay-pastor. I lead 2 Bible studies and spend Saturday mornings training future Korean missionaries. This week I am preaching, most weeks I just edit my pastor’s sermons for English mistakes (I live in Korea) and fixing doctrinally confusing sentences. I lead an ESL Bible study weekly and am the general go-to guy for all things Christian within the expat ministry of our church.

How do coaches get energized? I feel like I am in some sort of pastoral debt. I am giving out of a spiritually and emotionally empry wallet.

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly) #2” by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #7

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 17:53:27 +0000

[...] Mistake #2: Managing My Time and Not Managing My Life [...]

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #5 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #7

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 17:53:08 +0000

[...] Mistake #5: Not Understanding the Way Up is the Way Down [...]

Comment on My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly) – #1 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #7

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 17:52:52 +0000

[...] Mistake #1: Failing to Understand the Importance of How I Define Ministry Success.” [...]

Comment on “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #4 by Pooped Pastors » Blog Archive » “My Top Ten Mistakes In Ministry (That I Can Share Publicly)” #7

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 17:52:28 +0000

[...] Mistake #4: Not Understanding the Difference Between Pursuing the Grace of God and the God of Grace. [...]