One of the hardest things to do for most lead pastors is to separate from work.

We know this from personal experience. We’ve had to work hard as lead pastors to shut off work once we arrived at home. Failure to pivot leads to overscheduling, overcommitting, and rest-deprivation. So here is the question: How do we work hard, how do we fulfill our calling, without running ourselves into the ground? We learn how to pivot.

 

Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

 

Four ideas to get you started:

 

• Clock out at a reasonable time most days

“And then there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.” ~ Gen.1:5. This sequence speaks to daily stopping and starting points.

 

• Fight for your weekly day off

After completing the work of creation, God rested on the 7th day. He didn’t rest due to exhaustion. Protect your day off like your life depends on it, because in many ways it does.

 

• Walk by faith

Pastoring is a faith venture. It requires faith to pivot.

 

• Learn how to play

Find a hobby or a recreational activity that distracts you and schedule it into your calendar. Learning how to play helps you to be more productive at work.

 

Why does all this pivoting stuff matter?

Because when we fail to pivot, the most important disciples in our life—our spouse and children—suffer. When we fail to pivot, we’re at risk of developing an over-inflated sense of importance. And often, when pivoting is not part of our rhythm, depression and anxiety are waiting to pounce.