How Can We Survive & Thrive?

It happened again this past week. I’m sure as a preacher, you’ve experienced it in your work. On the same day, I visited with a family at the birth of their child and helped a family plan a funeral for a dear sister who passed away at the age of 98.

Life and death. Joy and Sorrow. Sickness and health. War and peace. In our world as preachers of the Gospel, we hear about it and often deal with it every day.

But how do we do it? How can we do it? How can we keep our head about us? How can we keep our focus, our faith, and our heart? How can we keep our balance and make sure we don’t become overwhelmed with the uncertainty of this world? May I offer a few suggestions?

Soak ourselves in Prayer. David lived in a messed-up world. He spent time running to save his life. The 86th Psalm is peppered with about fifteen requests, fired at God with a strong sense of urgency. When we are burdened and stressed there is nothing better we can do than pour out our heart to God.

Surround ourselves with People who can help. As you well know, there are negative people who can bring us down. There are people who are overly critical. You know the kind. They can brighten up any room, by leaving. There are times we need to be with people who make us feel good, who bring joy to our heart, who will build us up.

Spend a little time away. It is interesting to observe how often Jesus spent time in solitude (Mark 6:46; Luke 5:15). He understood the importance of getting away from the crowds. It will be a great help to us, to our families, and to those whom we minister, if we can find some time to be alone.