How Do You Get Out Of The Rut?

What do you do when you don’t want to do ministry?

My own struggle with identity and anxiety has created numerous times when I didn’t feel like being a pastor. For me the rut is always full of apathy.

As pastors we will have varying degrees of darkness in our life. Sometimes this darkness requires the help of professionals to help you return to balance. In these moments ministry isn’t very feasible. Most of the time the rut is a milder form of darkness that holds us back but force us to step away from ministry for a time.

When we are in this rut our responsibilities don’t cease. So we have to find ways to get out of the rut. Here’s what I’ve done before.

1. Quiet with God. Not just reading and praying more, but doing so with intention. Lectio Divina was a game changer for me.
2. Read. Not for information transfer or reflection, I love to read with those intentions, in the rut I need to escape in a book and enjoy finishing something.
3. Exercise. I’ve never regretted exercise. Stress pushes me to the rut and exercise is my most productive stress relief.
4. Write. Here in particular. Knowing that what I have to say is an encouragement to you is huge. The motivation and change in perspective helps me get out of the rut.
5. Connecting with Friends. The friends who know me the best and before I was in ministry, forever friends. Ministry is lonely and I need to connect with people who won’t question a ministry decision but will question my heart.

I know you have your own ruts in ministry, how do you get out of them?