cedar-creek-ministries

Resurrection Comes After Surrender

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:17:28 GMT

Resurrection leadership begins when we stop trying to produce what only God can bring to life.

Most pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders do not walk away from their calling because they stop loving Christ.

They grow tired in quieter ways.

Not always visibly.
Not always dramatically.
Often internally.

The work continues. Sermons are preached. Meetings are led. Counseling conversations happen. Prayers are offered. Ministry keeps moving.

But beneath that faithfulness, many leaders feel a pressure they have never fully named.

The pressure to keep momentum going.
The pressure to remain strong for everyone else.
The pressure to keep producing visible fruit.
The pressure to make sure nothing slows down on their watch.

That kind of strain is more common than many churches realize. Barna’s national pastor research found that 38 percent of pastors had considered quitting full time ministry within the past year , and later Barna reporting showed pastors feeling increasingly lonely and less supported than in previous years.

That matters, because pressure left unexamined eventually reshapes leadership.

Even after Easter, its message continues to speak into that hidden place.

Resurrection never comes before surrender.

The empty tomb is glorious, but it does not come first.

First there is Gethsemane.
First there is the cross.
First there is the yielding of the will to the Father.

And that same pattern still shapes Christian leadership now.

Not only for salvation.
For ministry too.

The Cross Is Still the Pattern of Christian Leadership

Jesus did not describe discipleship as self advancement.

He described it as daily surrender.

In Luke 9:23 He said,

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

That was not just instruction for private spiritual life. It was a blueprint for all who would follow Him, including those called to lead His people.

Christian leadership is not merely about vision, strength, and endurance.

It is about dying to whatever competes with obedience.

The cross means surrender.

It means laying down the need to prove yourself.
It means releasing the craving for visible success.
It means trusting God with outcomes you cannot control.

This is hard for leaders because ministry often rewards the opposite.

Visible growth gets celebrated.

Constant availability gets praised.
Busyness gets mistaken for fruitfulness.

But the kingdom of God has never run on the fuel of relentless striving.

It runs on surrender.

When Ministry Tries to Skip the Cross

One of the great temptations in ministry is wanting resurrection without surrender.

Leaders long to see people transformed. We pray for healthy churches. We want our ministries to flourish and bear fruit for the glory of God.

Those are good desires.

But they become dangerous when they quietly shift into pressure.

Pressure to sustain momentum.
Pressure to keep every ministry initiative alive.
Pressure to demonstrate impact.
Pressure to make sure the church keeps moving forward at all costs.

When that happens, leadership starts operating from urgency more than obedience.

And the inner life begins to thin out.

Prayer becomes harder to protect.
Silence begins to feel unproductive.
Waiting on God starts to feel inefficient.

Over time, this creates leaders who are still serving, but no longer living at the pace of grace.

Barna’s findings about pastors’ rising loneliness are important here, because isolation often increases when leaders feel responsible to keep everything moving while quietly carrying their burdens alone.

That is one of the clearest warning signs that ministry has drifted from surrender into striving.

Philippians 2 Shows Us the Way of Christ

Paul gives one of the clearest pictures of Christian leadership in Philippians 2:5 to 8:

“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who though he was in the form of God did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant.”

That phrase matters.

Christ did not grasp.

He did not cling.
He did not force.
He did not build His mission through self protection.

He emptied Himself.

The movement of Jesus was downward before it was upward.

Humility before exaltation.
Obedience before glory.
The cross before resurrection.

This is the deepest correction many ministry leaders need.

Your task is not to manufacture resurrection.

Your task is to follow Christ in obedience.

You are not responsible for producing life by force.

Resurrection belongs to God.

Burnout Often Grows Where Surrender Is Resisted

Burnout in ministry is usually discussed in terms of emotional exhaustion, stress, and fatigue.

Those are real. But underneath them is often a spiritual struggle as much as a practical one.

Leaders resist surrender because surrender feels risky.

If I stop, what will happen?
If I release this, will it fall apart?
If I slow down, will the ministry lose momentum?
If I admit I cannot carry this, will people be disappointed?

Those questions reveal how easy it is for leaders to start living as though the future of ministry rests on their shoulders.

But Jesus teaches a different pattern in John 12:24:

“Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone. But if it dies, it bears much fruit.”

This is not only a statement about salvation.

It is also a kingdom principle.

New life comes through surrender.

Sometimes a leader needs to let an expectation die.
Sometimes an unhealthy pace needs to die.
Sometimes a cherished ministry model needs to die.
Sometimes the illusion of being indispensable needs to die.

Without surrender, fruit eventually becomes shallow.

But where surrender is embraced, God often brings deeper life than human effort could ever produce.

Rest Is One of the Most Concrete Forms of Trust

One of the clearest ways leaders practice surrender is through rest.

That sounds simple, but for many pastors and ministry leaders, rest feels deeply uncomfortable.

There is always another need.
Another sermon.
Another meeting.
Another person who needs care.

Yet Jesus Himself told His disciples in Mark 6:31,

“Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.”

He did not say this because the ministry demands were light.

He said it because they were heavy.

Jesus understood that faithful leadership requires rhythm.

Not nonstop output.
Not endless availability.
Rhythm.

This is why seasons of intentional rest and even a sabbatical can become deeply spiritual acts.

A sabbatical is not an escape from ministry.

It is a way of confessing that Christ remains Lord of His church while His servants rest.

That kind of surrender is not weakness.

It is faith.

Resurrection Leadership Looks Different

When leaders embrace the pattern of the cross, something changes.

They stop trying to force what only God can raise.

Clarity returns.

They begin to discern what is truly theirs to carry and what must be entrusted back to God.

Peace returns.

They no longer live with the constant internal demand to keep everything alive by sheer effort.

Strength returns.

Not always as intensity, but as steadiness.

This is resurrection shaped leadership.

It is not flashy.
It is not driven by image.
It is not obsessed with visibility.

But it is durable.
It is humble.
And over time, it bears real fruit.

The kind of fruit that comes not from striving, but from abiding.

The Cross Still Comes First

As we reflect on Easter, we celebrate the empty tomb.

But we cannot understand the empty tomb rightly if we skip the cross.

That is true in salvation.

And it is true in leadership.

Before renewal comes release.
Before deeper life comes surrender.
Before resurrection comes the cross.

For pastors, missionaries, church leaders, and ministry leaders, that may mean laying down the pressure to prove effectiveness.

It may mean releasing the need to keep every ministry initiative alive.

It may mean stepping back long enough to remember that God is fully capable of sustaining His church.

The good news is this.

When leaders surrender what was never theirs to control, leadership does not collapse.

It becomes truer.
Lighter.
Healthier.
More faithful.

Because resurrection always follows surrender.

Prayer

Lord Jesus,

You walked the path of the cross with humility, patience, and complete obedience to the Father.

Teach pastors, missionaries, church leaders, and ministry leaders to follow you in that same way.

Help us release the pressure to produce results through our own strength. Remind us that resurrection belongs to you.

Give us courage to surrender the parts of ministry we have tried to control. Restore our trust in your faithfulness to sustain the work of your church.

Where leaders are weary, grant rest.

Where leaders are lonely, provide wise and loving support.

Where priorities have become disordered, bring clarity.

And help us lead with humility, patience, and faithful obedience as we walk the path you have set before us.

Amen.

You Are Not Called to Carry Everything

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 16:00:42 GMT

Christian leadership does not require holding everything together, it requires faithfulness to what God has entrusted.

Most pastors, missionaries, and church leaders begin ministry with a deep sense of calling.

There is a clear conviction that God has invited them into something meaningful. A desire to shepherd people faithfully. A willingness to sacrifice comfort in order to follow Christ wherever He leads.

In the early years of ministry, that calling often brings a profound sense of purpose.

But over time something subtle begins to shift.

Responsibilities multiply.

Expectations increase.

The needs of people never seem to slow.

What once felt like joyful obedience can slowly begin to feel like a constant weight.

Faithful leaders rarely complain about this. They continue serving, preaching, counseling, leading meetings, answering late night calls, and preparing week after week.

Yet somewhere beneath the surface, a quiet question begins to form.

How much of this was I actually meant to carry?

Christian leadership absolutely involves sacrifice. Scripture makes that unmistakably clear.

But the cross was never meant to turn pastors and ministry leaders into saviors.

With Easter just behind us, we’re reminded of something essential.

Christ carried what we could never carry.

And leadership becomes healthy again when we stop trying to hold everything together ourselves.

Christian Leadership Begins With the Right Center of Gravity

The apostle Paul offers one of the clearest descriptions of Christ’s leadership posture in Philippians 2.

“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who though he was in the form of God did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied himself.”

Paul is describing the leadership posture of Jesus Himself.

Christ did not lead by grasping for control.

He led by surrender.

He entrusted Himself completely to the will of the Father.

The early church understood this as the defining pattern of Christian leadership. The Greek word Paul uses for Christ’s self emptying is kenosis , meaning voluntary surrender of privilege and control.

This is not passive leadership. It is deeply active trust.

For pastors and ministry leaders today, this reshapes how responsibility is carried.

Christian leadership does not require holding everything together.

It requires faithfulness to what God has entrusted.

The difference between these two approaches is enormous.

One produces steadiness.

The other produces exhaustion.

Burnout Often Begins With Carrying Responsibilities That Belong to God

Many discussions about ministry burnout focus on emotional fatigue.

And fatigue is certainly real.

The Duke Clergy Health Initiative , one of the most comprehensive studies of clergy wellbeing in North America, found that pastors report significantly higher levels of emotional exhaustion and stress compared to many other professions.

But beneath that exhaustion there is often a deeper issue.

Many leaders slowly begin carrying responsibilities that were never meant to be theirs.

For example

feeling responsible for every person’s spiritual growth
feeling responsible for whether the church grows or declines
feeling responsible for every ministry initiative succeeding
feeling responsible for the expectations of everyone in the congregation

Over time this becomes overwhelming.

Yet the New Testament repeatedly reminds us of something foundational.

The church has only one head.

Colossians 1:18 says

“He is the head of the body, the church.”

Not the pastor.
Not the missionary.
Not the ministry leader.

Christ Himself.

When leaders begin functioning as if everything depends on them, they unintentionally carry what belongs to Christ.

And burnout often follows.

The solution is not simply working harder.

The solution is returning to faithful stewardship.

Faithful Leadership Is Stewardship, Not Ownership

One of the most liberating shifts a ministry leader can make is remembering that the work belongs to God.

Leaders are stewards.

They are not owners.

The apostle Paul describes ministry leadership in exactly these terms.

In 1 Corinthians 4:1–2 he writes

“This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.”

Notice what Paul emphasizes.

Faithfulness.

Not results.
Not constant expansion.
Not flawless outcomes.

Faithfulness.

This distinction changes how leadership feels.

When leaders assume ownership, the weight becomes unbearable.

When leaders embrace stewardship, the priorities become clearer.

Some things are entrusted to their care.

Other things must be entrusted back to God.

Rest Is Part of Faithful Stewardship

One of the most neglected responsibilities of Christian leadership is the stewardship of personal rhythm.

Many pastors carefully steward church budgets.

They steward teaching responsibilities.

They steward organizational leadership.

Yet they often struggle to steward their own limits.

Scripture does not treat rest as optional.

From the beginning of creation, God established rhythms of work and rest for His people.

The Sabbath command in Exodus 20 was not simply a spiritual discipline. It was a declaration that God is the true provider and sustainer of His people .

Without Sabbath, leaders begin living as if everything depends on their constant effort.

For modern ministry leaders, this principle sometimes extends beyond weekly rest.

There are seasons when deeper renewal becomes necessary.

A sabbatical for pastors has long been recognized in church history as a wise practice for sustained ministry. Many denominations encourage sabbaticals after extended years of service because they recognize the long term emotional and spiritual demands of shepherding people.

Stepping away for renewal is not abandonment of calling.

It is an act of trust.

It declares that the ministry belongs to God.

Jesus Never Carried What the Father Did Not Give Him

One of the most striking patterns in the Gospels is how Jesus handled endless ministry opportunities.

Crowds followed Him constantly.

People sought healing.
They sought teaching.
They sought attention.

The needs were everywhere.

Yet Jesus did not respond to every request.

There were moments when He withdrew to pray.

There were moments when He left towns where people wanted Him to stay.

There were moments when He allowed His disciples to share responsibility.

In John 5:19 Jesus explains the reason for this rhythm.

“The Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing.”

Jesus did not carry everything.

He carried what the Father entrusted to Him.

This is a profound lesson for every pastor and ministry leader.

Faithfulness does not mean responding to every need.

Faithfulness means responding to what God has actually given you to carry.

The Freedom of Releasing What Was Never Yours

When leaders begin releasing burdens that were never theirs, something remarkable often happens.

Clarity returns.

Energy returns.

Joy returns.

The work of ministry does not become easy.

Shepherding people will always require sacrifice. Preaching, teaching, counseling, and guiding communities of faith requires endurance.

But the weight becomes appropriate.

When pastors carry only what God has entrusted to them, ministry becomes sustainable.

And often, leaders rediscover the quiet joy that first led them into ministry.

You Were Never Meant to Carry Everything

Easter reminded us that Christ carried the ultimate burden of sin and death so that we would not have to.

Yet many faithful leaders continue carrying burdens that Christ has already claimed for Himself.

The church does not belong to us.

The future of ministry does not ultimately depend on us.

And the spiritual lives of others are not sustained by our strength.

Christian leadership is faithful stewardship.

It means carrying what God has given.

And releasing what He has not.

For some leaders this may mean reordering time.

For others it may mean stepping into a season of rest or even considering a sabbatical for renewal.

For many it simply means remembering this truth.

You are not called to carry everything.

Christ remains faithful to carry what belongs to Him.

Prayer

Lord Jesus,

You are the true Shepherd of the church.

Forgive us for the times when we have tried to carry burdens that belong to you. Teach pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders to walk in faithful stewardship rather than anxious responsibility.

Give us wisdom to recognize what you have entrusted to us and humility to release what is not ours.

Restore clarity where ministry has become heavy. Provide rest where leaders are weary.

And remind us again that the church is secure in your hands.

Help us lead with faithfulness, trust, and obedience as we follow you.

Amen.

What Needs to Die for Your Leadership to Live?

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 14:14:19 GMT

Every faithful ministry leader eventually reaches moments where something must be laid down so that something healthier can grow.

Many pastors and ministry leaders know the feeling, even if they rarely talk about it.

From the outside, ministry looks healthy, the sermons are prepared, the counseling appointments happen, and the programs continue.

Sunday arrives every week and the work carries on.

But privately, many leaders carry a weight that slowly grows heavier over time.

It is not a lack of love for Christ.
It is not laziness.
It is not spiritual failure.

More often, it is the quiet accumulation of responsibilities that were never meant to be carried indefinitely.

After twenty years of studying pastoral health and clergy sustainability, the Barna Group and Duke Clergy Health Initiative have repeatedly documented the same pattern . A significant number of pastors report chronic fatigue, decision overload, and a persistent sense that they are responsible for outcomes they cannot control.

In other words, faithful leaders often begin carrying burdens that belong to Christ alone.

Over time that misplaced weight distorts priorities, drains emotional strength, and slowly reshapes how leadership feels.

Easter reminds us of something central to the Christian life.

Resurrection always comes through death first.

Which leads to a necessary question for anyone leading in Christ’s name.

What needs to die so your leadership can truly live?

The Cross Is the Pattern of Christian Leadership

Jesus did not simply preach about the cross.
He made it the pattern of discipleship.

In Luke 9:23 He said:

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

These words were not spoken only to private believers seeking personal devotion.
They define the shape of leadership in the kingdom of God.

The early church understood this clearly.

Throughout the New Testament, leadership is repeatedly described through the language of self emptying, sacrifice, and service rather than status or expansion.

Theologians often describe this as cruciform leadership , leadership shaped by the cross.

It means certain things must die.

Not because leadership itself is dying, but because life in Christ grows only when competing priorities are surrendered.

Sometimes what must die includes

the need to be indispensable
the pressure to meet every expectation
the assumption that ministry must constantly expand
the belief that everything depends on you

The cross dismantles those illusions.

And what replaces them is not loss.

It is freedom.

Personality Quietly Reshapes Ministry When Leaders Are Exhausted

Few Christian leaders begin ministry with self driven motives.

Most pastors enter ministry out of genuine love for God and compassion for people.

But ministry environments create pressures that slowly reshape priorities.

Congregations grow accustomed to constant availability.
Church systems reward visible productivity.
Ministry success is often measured in attendance, programs, and expansion.

Over time leaders can begin carrying expectations that God never asked them to carry.

The apostle Paul describes a radically different leadership model in Philippians 2.

“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who though he was in the form of God did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied himself.”

Christ did not grasp for influence.

He emptied Himself.

The Greek word Paul uses is kenosis , meaning voluntary self emptying.

This is the leadership pattern Christ modeled.

Not grasping.
Not striving for control.
Not protecting status.

But surrender.

Faithful leadership in the church has never been sustained by expansion alone.

It is sustained by obedience.

And obedience often requires letting something die.

Burnout in Ministry Usually Begins With Misplaced Responsibility

Ministry burnout is often misunderstood.

It is rarely caused by a lack of love for people.

Most pastors enter ministry with deep compassion and commitment.

But research on clergy health consistently reveals something else.

Many leaders begin to believe they are responsible for outcomes that only God controls.

Church growth.
Spiritual transformation.
Congregational stability.
The success of every ministry effort.

Eventually this becomes overwhelming.

Scripture speaks directly to this temptation.

In Matthew 16:18 Jesus says

“I will build my church.”

Those five words reframe everything.

Christ builds the church.

Pastors shepherd it.
Missionaries serve it.
Leaders guide it.

But none of them carry responsibility for building it.

When leaders take on burdens that belong to Christ, exhaustion is inevitable.

This is not a failure of faith.

It is usually a matter of misplaced responsibility.

And the cross invites leaders to release it.

Rest for Ministry Leaders Is Not Withdrawal From Calling

One of the hardest acts of faith for many pastors is stepping away.

Many leaders hesitate to take a sabbatical or extended rest because the work feels too urgent.

What if something falls apart?
What if people need me?
What if momentum slows?

Yet Jesus addressed this exact tension with His disciples.

In Mark 6:31, after a demanding season of ministry, Jesus said:

“Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.”

The disciples had just returned from intense ministry activity.

Crowds were already gathering.

Needs were everywhere.

Yet Jesus interrupted the pace.

Why?

Because ministry cannot be sustained without rhythm.

The Jewish rhythm of Sabbath, practiced for over three thousand years, was designed to prevent exactly the kind of exhaustion many modern ministry leaders experience.

Rest is not disengagement from calling.

It is an act of trust.

A sabbatical becomes a powerful declaration of faith.

It says the ministry belongs to God.

And the leader is a steward, not the savior.

Resurrection Leadership Begins With Surrender

Easter teaches us something essential about leadership in the kingdom of God.

Life comes after surrender.

Jesus did not avoid the cross.

He embraced it.

And the same pattern shapes healthy Christian leadership.

Something must die.

For some leaders it may be the belief that they must carry everything.

For others it may be the pressure to satisfy every expectation.

For others it may be the quiet assumption that the ministry cannot continue without them.

But when those burdens are surrendered, something remarkable happens.

Leadership becomes lighter.

Discernment becomes clearer.

Faith becomes steadier.

Not because the work disappears.

But because the weight returns to where it belongs.

Onto the shoulders of Christ.

The Courage to Lay Something Down

Easter is not only about the resurrection of Jesus.

It is also about the death of misplaced priorities.

Every faithful ministry leader eventually reaches moments where something must be laid down so that something healthier can grow.

That may look like

releasing a responsibility
reordering your time
stepping into a season of rest
taking a sabbatical for renewal and clarity

None of these are signs of weakness.

They are acts of faith.

The cross teaches us something the world often forgets.

Death is not the end of the story.

Sometimes it is the doorway to resurrection.

Prayer

Lord Jesus,

You carried the cross so that we would not have to carry burdens that were never ours.

Teach us to lead in the pattern of your cross. Give pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders the courage to release what you are asking them to lay down.

Help us steward our time with wisdom and humility. Remind us that the church belongs to you and that you are faithful to sustain the work you have begun.

Where our priorities have become disordered, bring gentle correction.

Where we have carried too much, bring rest.

And where something must die so that new life can grow, give us the courage to surrender it to you.

Amen.

The Expectations We Place on Pastor’s Wives

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 15:14:43 GMT

Pastor’s Wives Appreciation Month is not merely about kind gestures. It is about cultivating wisdom.

Every church has expectations.

Some are spoken.
Some are assumed.
Some are inherited from previous generations.
Some are never examined at all.

During Pastor’s Wives Appreciation Month, we pause to honor the woman who stands beside the shepherd. But if we are wise, we will also pause to examine the weight we may be placing upon her.

Most expectations are not formed from ill will. They grow quietly from habit, tradition, or admiration. Over time, however, unspoken expectations can become heavy.

And faithful Christian leadership requires that we ask whether the weight is ordered rightly.

Pastor’s wives are not called by Scripture to fulfill a universal job description within the church. Yet many carry expectations that exceed clarity, capacity, or calling.

If we desire endurance rather than burnout in ministry, we must bring these expectations into the light.

Scripture gives us guidance. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites the weary to come to Him. His yoke is easy and His burden is light. The imagery is not burden free living. It is rightly fitted burden.

The question for churches is simple.

Are we fitting a yoke that Christ has not assigned?

The Assumption That She Leads Everything

In many congregations, it is quietly assumed that the pastor’s wife leads the women’s ministry, oversees hospitality, organizes events, mentors young wives, and attends nearly every gathering.

Sometimes she joyfully serves in these ways. Sometimes she is gifted for it. But sometimes the expectation arises simply because she is the pastor’s wife.

There is no New Testament mandate that the pastor’s wife must lead a particular ministry.

Ephesians 4 teaches that Christ gives pastors and teachers to equip the saints for the work of ministry. The work belongs to the body. When we default every need to one woman, we unintentionally neglect the distributed design of the church.

This assumption can contribute to quiet burnout in ministry. Not because she is unwilling, but because she is overextended without clarity.

Leadership teams can lighten this load by:

Clarifying whether she has formally accepted a role
Creating a culture where ministry leadership is shared across the body
Identifying other capable women to lead and serve

Faithful Christian leadership does not centralize responsibility in one household. It equips many.

The Pressure to Be Spiritually Perfect

Another heavy expectation is the subtle demand for visible spiritual perfection.

She must always speak graciously.
She must never appear discouraged.
She must have orderly children.
She must be consistently hospitable.
She must always seem spiritually strong.

James 3:2 reminds us that we all stumble in many ways. This includes those in ministry homes.

When the pastor’s wife feels that any misstep will be magnified, she may withdraw into guardedness. Transparency becomes risky. Authentic fellowship diminishes.

This does not mean lowering the call to holiness. Scripture calls every believer to maturity in Christ. But maturity grows through grace, not performance.

Church leaders can help by:

• Refusing to participate in critical comparisons
• Shutting down gossip immediately
• Encouraging an atmosphere where repentance and growth are normal

When expectations are grounded in Scripture rather than in cultural idealism, the load becomes rightly fitted.

The Public Family Dynamic

Few families live as publicly as a ministry family.

Her children may feel observed.
Her schedule may be scrutinized.
Her absence may be noticed.
Her parenting decisions may be evaluated.

First Timothy 3 connects leadership to the management of one’s household. But this is not a call for spectacle. It is a call for ordered faithfulness.

The church must remember that her children are not illustrations. They are souls.

Lightening the load means:

Protecting the privacy of the family
Avoiding commentary on their children’s normal developmental struggles
Ensuring that sabbatical for pastors includes rest for the entire household

Christian leadership and sabbaticals are not only about preaching renewal. They are about household stability.

When the family is strengthened, the ministry is steadied.

The Social and Cultural Assumptions

In some church cultures, there is an unspoken image of what a pastor’s wife should be.

She should dress a certain way.
She should participate in specific activities.
She should hold certain personality traits.
She should be visible but not too visible.

These assumptions may vary by region, but they share a common thread. They are often cultural rather than biblical.

Romans 12:2 urges believers not to be conformed to this world, but to be transformed by the renewal of the mind. Cultural ideals must always submit to Scripture.

Lightening expectations requires honest evaluation.

Is this expectation grounded in biblical command?

Or is it inherited preference?

Faithful Christian leadership refuses to bind consciences where Scripture does not bind.

How Leadership Teams Can Respond Wisely

Pastor’s Wives Appreciation Month provides an opportunity not only for gratitude, but for recalibration.

Elders and church leaders can take practical steps:

Have a direct conversation about expectations and clarify what is truly asked
Put agreed responsibilities in writing so assumptions do not grow over time
Encourage regular rest for church leaders that includes the whole family
Provide resources for spiritual renewal beyond weekly ministry demands
Publicly affirm that her primary calling is faithfulness to Christ and her family

These actions do not weaken leadership. They strengthen it.

Burnout in ministry often grows where expectations are undefined and burdens are cumulative.

When we clarify, we protect.

When we protect, we preserve long obedience.

A Call to Gentle Self Examination

If you are a member of a congregation, consider your own expectations.

Have you assumed her availability?
Have you compared her to another ministry wife?
Have you expected perfection without extending grace?

If you are a church leader, ask whether your structures protect or pressure.

Christ is the Chief Shepherd. He builds His church. He sustains it. He carries ultimate responsibility.

When we lighten expectations that Scripture does not require, we honor His design.

We allow the pastor’s wife to serve freely rather than defensively.

We create space for joy rather than quiet strain.

We strengthen faithful Christian leadership not by increasing demands, but by ordering them rightly.

And in doing so, we guard against the kind of hidden exhaustion that can quietly undermine ministry households.

Pastor’s Wives Appreciation Month is not merely about kind gestures.

It is about cultivating wisdom.

It is about aligning expectations with Scripture.

It is about ensuring that the burden is the Lord’s burden, not ours.

A Resource for Churches Who Want to Pray Intentionally

If your church is looking for a meaningful way to support your pastor’s wife this month, our newly released Praying for Your Pastor’s Wife: A 30 Day Guided Prayer Journal was created to help individuals and churches move beyond appreciation into intentional intercession.

Each day includes Scripture, guided prompts, and focused prayers designed to strengthen and encourage the woman serving behind the scenes.

You can learn more here: https://www.amazon.com/Praying-You-Pastors-Wife-Strengthen/dp/B0GPDWKS2Q

Because appreciation is beautiful. But sustained prayer is transformative.

Prayer

Father,

Search us and know our hearts.

Reveal expectations we have carried that are not rooted in Your Word.
Forgive us where we have added weight to those already serving faithfully.

Grant wisdom to elders and ministry leaders as they clarify responsibilities.
Guard pastor’s wives from burdens You did not assign.
Strengthen their joy in Christ.
Protect their homes with peace and order.

Teach us to honor what You honor.
Teach us to lighten what You have not required.
And anchor every church in the sufficiency of Christ, our Chief Shepherd.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

How to Pray Specifically for Your Pastor’s Wife

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 14:22:14 GMT

When we pray specifically for a pastor’s wife, we acknowledge that ministry is not sustained by human strength alone. We ask God to do what only He can do.

Most churches know they should pray for their pastor.

Fewer know how to pray for his wife.

During Pastor’s Wives Appreciation Month, many congregations offer flowers, kind words, or public recognition. These gestures are meaningful. They communicate gratitude.

But appreciation, while beautiful, is not the deepest support we can offer.

Prayer is.

The pastor’s wife lives at the intersection of public ministry and private covenant. She carries spiritual weight that is rarely announced. She experiences pressures that are often misunderstood. She serves in ways that may never be fully seen.

If we desire faithful Christian leadership in our churches for the long term, we must learn to pray specifically for the women who stand beside those who shepherd.

General prayers are good. Specific intercession is better.

Scripture calls us to this kind of prayer. Paul repeatedly asked the churches to pray for him in concrete ways. In Ephesians 6:19, he requests prayer that words would be given to him to boldly proclaim the mystery of the gospel. He did not ask for vague blessing. He asked for precise help.

In the same way, we can pray intentionally for our pastor’s wife.

Below are five areas where focused intercession can strengthen her and, through her, strengthen Christian leadership in the church.

Pray for Her Identity, Not Just Her Role

One of the quiet tensions a pastor’s wife faces is confusion between who she is and what she does.

It is easy for a congregation to define her by visible functions:

She leads women’s Bible study.
She hosts gatherings.
She supports children’s ministry.
She sings.
She counsels.

But before any role, she is a daughter of God.

Colossians 3:3 says, For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. Her deepest identity is not pastor’s wife. It is united to Christ.

Pray that:

Her confidence would be rooted in the finished work of Christ
She would rest in being known and loved by God
She would not measure her worth by congregational approval
She would be protected from comparison with other ministry wives

In seasons of criticism or misunderstanding, identity becomes especially vulnerable. When expectations multiply, it can feel as if she must constantly prove herself.

Pray that her identity would remain steady.

This kind of intercession guards against subtle forms of burnout in ministry that arise when performance replaces communion.

Faithful Christian leadership begins with secure identity in Christ. That includes the pastor’s wife.

Pray for Her Friendships and Companionship

Isolation is one of the least visible challenges she may experience.

Because she lives in a public family, relationships can feel complicated. Transparency requires discernment. Confidentiality limits what can be shared.

Ecclesiastes 4:12 teaches that a cord of three strands is not quickly broken. God did not design His people to endure alone.

Pray that:

She would have trusted friends with whom she can speak freely
The Lord would provide relationships marked by mutual encouragement
She would not withdraw into quiet loneliness
She would be refreshed by fellowship outside ministry pressures

Friendship is not a luxury. It is part of God’s provision for endurance.

When she has healthy companionship, the emotional weight she carries does not settle only on her own heart.

Church leaders can also support this prayer by encouraging her participation in retreats, conferences, or gatherings where she is not primarily serving but receiving.

Rest for church leaders includes relational renewal. And that renewal must extend to the household.

Pray for Her Marriage, Quietly and Faithfully

The marriage between a pastor and his wife is both ordinary and uniquely pressured.

It is ordinary because it is a covenant between a man and a woman under God. It faces the same realities of communication, conflict, and growth as any marriage.

It is uniquely pressured because it unfolds under congregational observation.

Ephesians 5:25 calls husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church. That is a high calling. It is beautiful, but it is demanding.

"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her."

Pray that:

Their marriage would be marked by affection, not merely partnership
They would guard private time together
Ministry burdens would not crowd out personal communion
Forgiveness would be quick and pride would be resisted
They would enjoy one another beyond ministry work

Sabbath rhythms, even short ones, can help protect marriage health. When churches provide sabbatical for pastors, they should view it as investment not only in preaching strength but in marital renewal.

Christian leadership and sabbaticals are connected because rest is trust. It acknowledges that the church belongs to Christ, not to the constant labor of one couple.

Praying for their marriage is praying for the stability of leadership.

Pray for Her Children

Children in ministry families often grow up in a public setting they did not choose.

They may feel observed.
They may feel expectations placed upon them.
They may sense tension during difficult seasons in the church.

Deuteronomy 6 instructs parents to teach God’s Word diligently to their children. The pastor’s home is not exempt from this calling. In fact, it is central to it.

Pray that:

Her children would love Christ personally
They would not grow resentful toward the church
They would experience genuine joy in their home
They would be protected from unfair expectations
Their mother would have wisdom in discipling and guiding them

First Timothy 3 links the management of a household to leadership credibility. This does not mean perfection. It means ordered devotion.

When you pray for her children, you are praying for the long term health of the ministry family.

Burnout in ministry sometimes emerges when family strain goes unaddressed. Specific intercession can guard against this.

Pray for Joy, Not Only Endurance

It is possible to endure without joy.

It is possible to continue serving while the heart grows thin.

Nehemiah 8:10 says, The joy of the Lord is your strength. Joy is not emotional hype. It is settled gladness in God’s character and promises.

Pray that:

She would experience genuine delight in Christ
Ministry would not become merely duty
She would see fruit in quiet ways
Gratitude would outnumber discouragement
Her laughter would be frequent and sincere

Joy strengthens perseverance.

In John 15, Jesus speaks of abiding in Him so that His joy may be in His disciples and that their joy may be full. This fullness comes from communion, not from ministry results.

When we pray for her joy, we are asking God to anchor her heart in something deeper than congregational response or visible growth.

Faithful Christian leadership is sustained not by pressure, but by joy rooted in Christ.

How Churches Can Practice Intentional Intercession

Praying specifically requires structure.

Consider these practical steps:

Set aside one Sunday to guide the congregation in focused prayer
Include written prayer prompts in the bulletin
Encourage small groups to dedicate time to interceding for her
Invite elders to pray over the ministry couple privately
Use Pastor’s Wives Appreciation Month to launch ongoing prayer rhythms, not one time gestures

Time stewardship in ministry applies to prayer as well. If we schedule meetings and events, we can also schedule intercession.

When churches pray specifically, they cultivate awareness. They learn to see hidden burdens. They become more thoughtful in expectations.

Christian leadership thrives in a praying church.

A Gentle Reminder to Ministry Leaders

If you are a pastor reading this, do not assume your wife does not need prayer because she appears strong.

If you are a missionary, remember that field pressures affect your household deeply.

If you are an elder or church leader, consider whether your intercession has been as specific for her as it is for preaching or outreach.

The church belongs to Christ. He is the Chief Shepherd. He does not require frantic effort. He invites faithful obedience.

When we pray specifically for a pastor’s wife, we acknowledge that ministry is not sustained by human strength alone.

We ask God to do what only He can do.

And in doing so, we strengthen faithful Christian leadership for the long obedience ahead.

A Resource for Churches Who Want to Pray Intentionally

Each day includes Scripture, guided prompts, and focused prayers designed to strengthen and encourage the woman serving behind the scenes.

You can learn more here: https://www.amazon.com/Praying-You-Pastors-Wife-Strengthen/dp/B0GPDWKS2Q

Because appreciation is beautiful. But sustained prayer is transformative.

Prayer

Father,

You know the hidden places of the heart.

You see the identity struggles no one speaks aloud.
You see the friendships longed for.
You see the marriage conversations held late at night.
You see the children navigating public expectations.

Anchor this pastor’s wife in Christ.
Guard her joy.
Strengthen her marriage.
Protect her children.
Provide faithful friends.

Renew her daily as she abides in You.
Order her steps according to Your wisdom.
Let her serve not from depletion, but from communion.

And may her life, hidden and visible, bring glory to Christ and stability to Your church.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Burnout Isn’t Just a Pastor Problem

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 14:13:24 GMT

Pastor’s wives are not supporting characters in the story of the church. They are covenant partners in the work of the gospel.

Pastors are not the only ones who grow weary.

When conversations about burnout in ministry surface, they often center on the preaching pastor, the missionary in the field, or the ministry leader carrying organizational weight. Conferences are planned. Sabbaticals are discussed. Books are written about rest for church leaders.

These are important and necessary conversations.

But there is another form of weariness that rarely receives attention.

It is the quiet exhaustion of a pastor’s wife who carries spiritual and emotional weight without a title, without a formal role, and often without a clear invitation to rest.

She may not preach the sermon. But she lives with the sermon’s consequences.

She may not sit in the elders meeting. But she feels its outcome.

She may not be listed on staff. But she is often treated as if she is always available.

Burnout in ministry is not only a pastor problem. It can quietly become a household problem.

And faithful Christian leadership requires that we see this clearly.

A Biblical Framework for Weariness and Rest

Scripture does not shame weariness. It interprets it.

Galatians 6:9 says, Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Paul assumes that good work can produce real fatigue. The command is not denial of weariness, but perseverance through it.

Yet perseverance in Scripture is never separated from trust in God’s provision.

Psalm 127:1 to 2 reminds us that unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. It continues by saying that it is vain to rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil, for He gives to His beloved sleep.

Sleep is described as a gift. Rest is described as provision. Anxious overextension is described as vanity.

This has implications not only for pastors and missionaries, but for their wives.

If rest for church leaders is an act of trust, then rest for the pastor’s wife is also an act of trust.

When conversations about Christian leadership and sabbaticals take place, they must include the household. Otherwise, we risk caring for the visible branch while neglecting the root system.

The Emotional Load Without a Job Description

One of the most challenging realities for a pastor’s wife is the emotional weight she carries without clarity of role.

She may:

Absorb criticism directed at her husband (and for the love of all that is holy, STOP COMPLAINING ABOUT THE PASTOR TO HIS WIFE!)
Listen to congregational conflict secondhand
Offer informal counsel to hurting women
Carry private concerns about the church
Hold space for her husband’s discouragement

None of this appears in a job description. Yet it is real.

Proverbs 14:10 says, The heart knows its own bitterness, and no stranger shares its joy. There are burdens within a pastor’s home that are not easily explained to outsiders.

She cannot share everything. She must exercise discretion. She must guard confidences. She must often remain silent publicly while processing privately.

Over time, this emotional load can accumulate.

Burnout in ministry is not always dramatic collapse. Sometimes it is slow depletion through constant availability and undefined expectations.

Faithful Christian leadership requires wisdom in recognizing this hidden stewardship of the heart.

The Isolation Few Notice

Pastor’s wives often experience a subtle isolation.

It is not always intentional. But it is real.

Friendships within the church can be complicated. Transparency may feel risky. Vulnerability can be misunderstood. Confidentiality limits what can be shared.

She may feel surrounded by people yet cautious in conversation.

Ecclesiastes 4:9 to 10 teaches that two are better than one, for if one falls, the other will lift up his fellow. Scripture assumes companionship as part of God’s design for endurance.

When isolation increases, weariness deepens.

Church leadership teams should ask:

Does she have trusted friendships outside the immediate pressures of congregational life
Does she have space to speak honestly without fear of misinterpretation
Is there encouragement offered to her personally, not only to her husband

A church that cares for faithful Christian leadership will intentionally care for the relational health of the pastor’s wife.

The Pressure of Constant Availability

Another source of hidden exhaustion is the assumption of perpetual availability.

Because her role is undefined, requests can multiply.

A text late at night.
A conversation after service.
An expectation to attend every event.
An assumption she will lead every women’s gathering.
A belief that she is always spiritually prepared to listen.

Over time, constant accessibility without ordered priorities strains the soul.

Jesus Himself was not constantly accessible. Mark 1:35 tells us that He rose very early, while it was still dark, and went out to a desolate place to pray. When the disciples searched for Him and told Him everyone was looking, He did not return immediately to meet every demand. He continued according to the Father’s direction.

This is not withdrawal. It is obedience.

Time stewardship in ministry is not selfishness. It is alignment with God’s pace.

Pastor’s wives need the same freedom to live ordered lives rather than reactive ones.

Leadership teams can help by:

Clarifying which responsibilities truly belong to her
Protecting days that are genuinely free from church obligations
Encouraging rhythms of rest that include the entire family

Sabbatical for pastors must include relief from constant relational demand. And that relief must extend to their wives.

Compassion Fatigue in the Quiet Corners

Pastor’s wives often hear painful stories.

Marital breakdown.
Wayward children.
Financial crisis.
Grief.
Abuse.
Spiritual confusion.

Because she is approachable, women may share freely. And she listens.

Listening is holy work. But it requires strength.

Second Corinthians 4:16 says, So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.

Renewal does not happen automatically. It happens as we abide in Christ.

When she gives out continually without intentional renewal, her inner life can grow thin.

Compassion fatigue is a stewardship issue.

If she pours out constantly but is rarely poured into, she will burn out.

Churches can respond wisely by:

Encouraging her to receive teaching and shepherding herself
Providing opportunities for retreats or quiet days away
Supporting Christian leadership and sabbaticals that include spiritual renewal for her

Rest is not retreat from calling. It is recognition that only Christ is the Savior of the church.

Sustainable Rhythms for Long Obedience

The goal is not comfort. It is endurance.

Faithful Christian leadership is long obedience in the same direction. It requires sustainable rhythms.

Here are biblical principles that support longevity:

Ordered priorities
Luke 10:38 to 42 shows Martha distracted with much serving while Mary sits at the Lord’s feet. Jesus does not rebuke service. He corrects disordered priority. The one thing necessary is communion with Him.
Shared burden
Exodus 18 records Jethro advising Moses to appoint capable men to share leadership. Even God’s chosen leader needed distributed responsibility. Churches should ensure that ministry does not quietly rest on the pastor’s wife by default.
Rhythms of withdrawal
Jesus withdrew regularly to pray. Not because He was weak, but because He lived in communion with the Father. Rhythms of withdrawal are not luxury. They are obedience.
Trust in God’s sufficiency
Psalm 121 reminds us that our help comes from the Lord. The church does not stand or fall on the pastor’s wife’s availability. Christ builds His church.

When these rhythms are embraced, burnout in ministry becomes less likely because the load is ordered under Christ.

How Churches Can Respond Thoughtfully

Pastor’s Wives Appreciation Month should not merely affirm her service. It should protect her future.

Church leaders can take practical steps:

Initiate regular check ins that focus on her well being, not performance
Offer financial provision for retreats or counseling when needed
Clarify expectations in writing so assumptions do not grow
Encourage sabbaticals for pastors that intentionally include restoration for the whole family
Publicly affirm that her primary calling is faithfulness to Christ, not meeting every congregational expectation

These steps are not indulgent. They are wise stewardship of those who serve.

Christian leadership flourishes when those who carry weight are supported with clarity and care.

A Call to Gentle Awareness

If you are a pastor reading this, consider the quiet cost your wife may carry.

If you are an elder or ministry leader, consider whether expectations have been clearly defined.

If you are a member of a congregation, consider how often you assume access without asking what sustains her.

Burnout in ministry does not announce itself loudly. It often grows quietly in the spaces where expectations multiply and rest diminishes.

But the Lord who called you is faithful.

He does not require anxious striving.
He does not demand constant visibility.
He does not measure leadership by exhaustion.

He calls His servants to obedience.
He invites them to trust.
He commands them to rest.

Pastor’s wives are not supporting characters in the story of the church. They are covenant partners in the work of the gospel.

When we care for them wisely, we strengthen faithful Christian leadership for generations.

A Resource for Churches Who Want to Pray Intentionally

Each day includes Scripture, guided prompts, and focused prayers designed to strengthen and encourage the woman serving behind the scenes.

You can learn more here : https://www.amazon.com/Praying-You-Pastors-Wife-Strengthen/dp/B0GPDWKS2Q

Because appreciation is beautiful. But sustained prayer is transformative.

Prayer

Father,

You are not unaware of hidden weariness.

You see the quiet burdens carried in ministry homes.
You see the emotional weight, the long conversations, the late nights.
You see the sacrifices that never make a report.

Guard the hearts of pastor’s wives.
Order their days under Your wisdom.
Grant them deep rest that flows from trust in You.

Where isolation has grown, provide companionship.
Where exhaustion has accumulated, renew strength.
Where expectations have multiplied, bring clarity and peace.

Teach our churches to steward leadership wisely.
Teach us to protect those who labor faithfully.
And anchor every home in the sufficiency of Christ.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

The Hidden Leadership of a Pastor’s Wife

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 14:23:31 GMT

Faithfulness is rarely loud. It is steady. It is repetitive. It is prayerful. It is ordered under Christ.

Pastor’s Wives Appreciation Month gives the church an opportunity to see what is often overlooked.

Most congregations see the sermon. They see the hospital visit. They see the counseling appointment. They see the visible labor of pastors and church leaders who give themselves to preaching and shepherding.

What they do not always see is the quiet leadership happening just beyond the pulpit.

They do not see the woman praying late at night when the weight of the church sits heavily on her husband’s shoulders. They do not see the text messages answered, the meals prepared, the conversations held in the foyer, the spiritual discernment exercised in private. They do not see the quiet resilience required to live faithfully in a public family.

The leadership of a pastor’s wife is rarely formal. It is rarely announced. It often has no title and no job description. Yet it is real. And it is weight bearing.

In the work of faithful Christian leadership, especially among pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders, her hidden influence often shapes the culture more than we realize.

This month is an opportunity not merely to appreciate her, but to understand her.

A Biblical Vision for Hidden Strength

Scripture has never measured leadership by visibility.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:12 to 13, Paul urges the church to respect those who labor among them and are over them in the Lord. The word labor suggests effort that exhausts. It includes not only public preaching but the unseen work of spiritual care.

"Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other." - 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13

While the text speaks directly of pastors and church leaders, the principle extends to the whole household that bears that labor. Ministry is not lived in isolation. It shapes family life, time stewardship in ministry, and daily rhythms.

Consider Proverbs 31:11 to 12. "The heart of her husband trusts in her, and she does him good and not harm all the days of her life."

This is not sentimental language. It is covenant language. It speaks of reliability, strength, wisdom, and ordered living. Her faithfulness stabilizes his calling.

Or think of Priscilla in Acts 18. Alongside Aquila, she helped instruct Apollos more accurately in the way of God. Her leadership was doctrinally grounded, relationally wise, and quietly powerful. She did not seek prominence. She served truth.

Biblically, leadership is not confined to office. It is expressed in influence, faithfulness, and obedience under God’s authority.

When we speak of Christian leadership and sabbaticals, or rest for church leaders, or even burnout in ministry, we must remember that the strain of ministry does not stop at the pastor’s desk. It often enters the home.

The pastor’s wife does not carry the office of elder. But she often carries spiritual weight that is deeply connected to that office.

She Sets the Culture Without a Microphone

Every church has a culture.

Some churches feel warm and welcoming. Others feel guarded. Some feel joyful. Others feel anxious.

While pastors shape culture through preaching and vision, pastor’s wives often shape it through presence.

Her posture toward people matters. Her tone in conversation matters. Her hospitality matters. Her visible response to difficulty matters.

When she listens patiently in the foyer
When she speaks kindly about critics
When she refuses to fuel gossip
When she models reverence in worship

She is shaping the emotional and spiritual temperature of the church.

This is not accidental influence. It is quiet leadership.

Paul writes in 1 Timothy 3 that the overseer must manage his household well. The health of a pastor’s home is not separate from his leadership. It supports it. It reflects it. It strengthens it.

A pastor’s wife who cultivates an ordered life at home, who honors Christ in speech, who exercises discernment in relationships, is contributing to faithful Christian leadership in ways no strategic plan can replicate.

She Provides Spiritual Covering in the Secret Place

Much of a pastor’s wife’s leadership happens in prayer.

When discouragement comes after a difficult elders meeting
When criticism spreads quietly through the congregation
When financial strain weighs heavily on a missionary family
When exhaustion tempts a ministry leader to overextend rather than rest

She often goes before the Lord first.

Exodus 17 gives us a striking image. As Moses held up his hands, Israel prevailed. When his hands dropped, they faltered. Aaron and Hur supported his arms until sunset.

The pastor’s wife often functions as one who quietly supports weary arms.

She prays when others do not see.
She intercedes when her husband cannot speak freely about burdens.
She discerns when something is spiritually off.
She reminds him of truth when emotions rise.

This is not theatrical spirituality. It is steadfast intercession.

Churches searching for solutions to burnout in ministry sometimes look first to conferences, systems, or sabbaticals for pastors. Those can be gifts from the Lord. But they must not overlook the intercessory partnership within the home.

Her prayers are not decorative. They are defensive and sustaining.

She Offers Informal Counsel Few Recognize

Many pastor’s wives carry the informal counseling load of the church.

Women approach her with marriage questions.
Parents ask her about children.
Young leaders seek advice.
Hurting members share private struggles.

Often these conversations happen in parking lots, kitchens, or text threads. They are not logged on a calendar. They are not counted in reports.

Yet they require discernment, patience, and theological clarity.

"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

Galatians 6:2 calls believers to bear one another’s burdens. Pastor’s wives frequently live this command quietly.

But here is the tension.

Because her leadership is informal, expectations can multiply without structure. She can become perpetually available, emotionally stretched, and isolated without anyone recognizing the cumulative weight.

This is where churches must practice wisdom.

Faithful Christian leadership includes protecting those who serve. It includes clear expectations. It includes honoring time stewardship in ministry so that informal care does not become silent depletion.

She Practices Hospitality as Ministry, Not Performance

"Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality."

Romans 12:13 instructs believers to practice hospitality.

For a pastor’s wife, hospitality often becomes both opportunity and pressure.

Meals are shared with visiting speakers.
Missionaries stay in guest rooms.
Counseling conversations unfold around kitchen tables.
Church members linger after services.

Hospitality can be a beautiful extension of shepherding. It creates space for discipleship. It embodies welcome.

But it must be seen rightly.

Hospitality is ministry, not performance.
It is obedience, not competition.
It is offering what you have, not what impresses.

When leadership teams understand this, they can help protect rest for church leaders and their families. They can ensure that the home is not perpetually open without pause. They can encourage sabbatical for pastors that includes true rest for the household.

Rest is not withdrawal from calling. It is trust in God’s sufficiency.

Mark 6:31, records Jesus telling His disciples, " Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

The context is ministry demand. People were coming and going. There was no leisure even to eat.

Jesus did not rebuke them for serving. He directed them to rest.

The same Lord who calls pastors and missionaries to labor also calls them to rhythms of rest. And those rhythms must include their wives.

She Lives as Part of a Public Family

Perhaps one of the heaviest realities is the public nature of her life.

Her children are observed.
Her marriage is discussed.
Her personality is evaluated.
Her appearance is noticed.
Her attendance is expected.

Few roles in the church carry this kind of scrutiny without formal authority.

James 3:1 warns that teachers will be judged with greater strictness. While the warning applies directly to those who teach, the ripple effects of visible leadership often touch the family.

"Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly."

The pastor’s wife learns quiet resilience.

She learns to endure misinterpretation without retaliation.
She learns to forgive quickly.
She learns to remain steady when attendance fluctuates or criticism rises.
She learns to order her priorities around Christ rather than congregational approval.

This resilience is not personality strength alone. It is cultivated faith.

It is long obedience in the same direction.

How Churches Can Honor Hidden Leadership

Appreciation month should not be sentimental only. It should be thoughtful.

Here are ways pastors, missionaries, church leaders, and ministry leaders can honor the hidden leadership of a pastor’s wife.

Clarify expectations
Do not assume she leads every women’s ministry, event, or hospitality effort. Define what is truly needed and release what is not.

Protect rest
Ensure that sabbaticals for pastors include intentional rest for the entire family. Time away is stewardship, not indulgence.

Encourage friendships
Isolation intensifies weariness. Help create space for peer relationships beyond the congregation.

Respect her calling
Some pastor’s wives are highly visible teachers. Others serve quietly. Honor both expressions without comparison.

Pray specifically
Do not merely thank her. Intercede for her. Pray for joy, endurance, wisdom, and freedom from unrealistic expectations.

Christian leadership thrives when those who labor are supported.

An Invitation to See and Pray

Pastor’s Wives Appreciation Month is not about elevating one person above the body. It is about recognizing the interconnected nature of ministry life.

When you strengthen her, you strengthen your pastor.
When you support her, you stabilize leadership.
When you pray for her, you invest in the long obedience of your church.

Faithfulness is rarely loud.

It is steady.
It is repetitive.
It is prayerful.
It is ordered under Christ.

In an age that measures leadership by numbers, platforms, and visibility, the hidden leadership of a pastor’s wife reminds us of a deeper metric.

Obedience.

And obedience, sustained over years, shapes eternity.

A Resource for Churches Who Want to Pray Intentionally

Each day includes Scripture, guided prompts, and focused prayers designed to strengthen and encourage the woman serving behind the scenes.

You can learn more here: https://www.amazon.com/Praying-You-Pastors-Wife-Strengthen/dp/B0GPDWKS2Q

Because appreciation is beautiful. But sustained prayer is transformative.

Prayer

Father,

You see what we do not see.

You see the quiet prayers whispered late at night.
You see the tears shed in private.
You see the meals prepared, the conversations held, the burdens carried silently.

Thank You for the hidden leadership of pastor’s wives.
Thank You for their faithfulness under weight.
Thank You for their partnership in the gospel.

Strengthen them where they are weary.
Guard their marriages.
Protect their children.
Order their days according to Your wisdom.
Grant them joy that is rooted not in approval, but in Christ.

Teach our churches to honor what You honor.
Teach us to support those who labor.
Teach us to rest in Your sufficiency.

And may all our leadership, seen and unseen, be marked by humble obedience to You.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Identity Shapes Priorities

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:06:04 GMT

When leaders return to who God says they are, life begins to reorder.

Every pastor and ministry leader carries priorities. Some are explicit and planned. Others are formed quietly over time.

Sermons to prepare.
People to shepherd.
Decisions that shape congregations, teams, and futures.
Responsibilities that carry eternal weight.

Most leaders do not wake up one day overwhelmed. They arrive there slowly.

Faithfulness accumulates.
Good responsibilities stack.
Expectations increase.
Rest becomes harder to justify.

Eventually, leaders notice that something feels heavier than it once did.

The work is still meaningful.
The calling is still clear.
But the soul feels strained.

Scripture does not shame leaders for this moment. Instead, it invites them to examine a deeper truth.

Priorities are never neutral.
They are always shaped by identity.

Identity Is the Source of What We Choose First

Jesus consistently revealed that priorities flow from identity.

In John 15, He speaks plainly. He does not begin by telling His disciples what to do. He tells them who they are.

You are the branches.
I am the vine.

This is not metaphor. It is reality.

A branch does not decide what it will produce. It bears fruit according to what it is connected to. When the connection is clear, the fruit follows naturally.

For Christian leaders, this order matters deeply.

When identity is rooted in Christ, priorities reflect God’s pace.
When identity becomes unsettled, urgency takes the lead.

Leaders may still choose good things. They may still be faithful. But the order quietly shifts.

Paul names this clearly in Galatians 2:20. His life is no longer self driven. Christ lives in him. Leadership flows from union, not effort.

When leaders forget this, priorities become shaped by pressure rather than obedience.

How Identity Drift Quietly Reorders Life

Identity drift rarely announces itself. It happens slowly, often under the banner of responsibility.

Leaders begin responding more than discerning.
They say yes more quickly.
They carry expectations that were never spoken by God.

Over time, priorities begin to reflect something other than calling.

Identity drift often shows up like this:

Time is shaped by demand rather than discernment.
Decisions are made out of obligation rather than prayer.
Rest feels indulgent rather than obedient.
Faithfulness is measured by activity rather than alignment.

None of this feels sinful. Much of it feels noble.

But Scripture reminds us that not everything good is assigned.

In Exodus 18, Moses is faithfully leading God’s people. His effort is sincere. His heart is right. And yet, his leadership is unsustainable.

Jethro’s counsel is not about working less. It is about ordering life correctly.

What you are doing is not good.

Moses is carrying weight that does not belong to him alone. His identity as leader has expanded beyond what God assigned.

When identity expands, priorities follow.

Time Stewardship in Ministry Begins With Identity

Psalm 90 teaches leaders to number their days so that they may gain a heart of wisdom.

Wisdom is not speed.
Wisdom is not efficiency.
Wisdom is alignment with God’s pace.

Time stewardship in ministry is not primarily about calendars or systems. It is about identity.

When leaders know who they are before God, they can steward time faithfully without fear.

They can discern what deserves attention now.
They can release what can wait.
They can rest without guilt.
They can trust God with what remains undone.

Jesus modeled this consistently.

He did not heal everyone.
He did not go everywhere.
He did not respond to every request immediately.

And yet, His leadership was perfectly faithful because it was perfectly obedient.

Christian Leadership and Sabbaticals Reorder Priorities

Christian leadership and sabbaticals belong together because both require trust.

Sabbaticals are not pauses from calling. They are recalibrations of identity.

In Mark 6, Jesus invites His disciples to come away after intense ministry. Not because they failed. Because they were faithful.

Come away by yourselves to a quiet place and rest a while.

This invitation acknowledges limits without shame. It recognizes that leadership sustained without rest eventually distorts priorities.

Sabbaticals allow leaders to step out of constant demand and listen again.

They create space to:

Hear God without urgency.
Release false ownership of ministry.
Restore God’s pace.
Reorder life around obedience.

Sabbaticals remind leaders that fruit belongs to God. Outcomes are His responsibility. Identity is not dependent on constant output.

Burnout as Misaligned Stewardship

Burnout in ministry is often misunderstood. Scripture does not frame it as weakness or failure.

More often, burnout reveals misaligned stewardship.

Psalm 127 reminds us that unless the Lord builds the house, those who labor labor in vain. This does not mean the work is wrong. It means the weight has shifted.

Elijah’s story in 1 Kings 19 illustrates this truth with tenderness.

After powerful ministry, Elijah collapses under fear and exhaustion. God does not rebuke him. God meets him.

God provides rest.
God provides nourishment.
God speaks quietly.

Burnout becomes a signal that something in the ordering of life needs attention.

Often, that something is identity.

Ordered Priorities Require Trust

Galatians 6 reminds leaders to carry their own load while bearing one another’s burdens. The distinction matters.

Not every burden belongs to every leader.
Not every responsibility is yours to carry.
Not every expectation comes from God.

A long obedience in the same direction requires an ordered life.

That order flows from trust.

Trust that God sees what is unseen.
Trust that He sustains the work.
Trust that obedience is enough.

When identity is settled, leaders no longer feel compelled to justify their priorities. They rest in God’s approval.

Reflection for Leaders

Consider these questions prayerfully.

What has been shaping my priorities lately?
Where might identity have shifted under weight?
What responsibilities feel heavy because they did not come from God?
What might obedience look like if I trusted God more fully with time?

These questions are not meant to produce guilt. They are meant to restore clarity.

God does not pressure leaders into rest. He invites them.

An Invitation to Trust God With What Shapes Your Days

Identity shapes priorities. Always has.

When leaders return to who God says they are, life begins to reorder.

Time reflects trust.
Rest becomes worship.
Leadership steadies.

This is not a call to do less ministry.
It is an invitation to lead from the right place.

From identity.
From obedience.
From trust.

A Closing Prayer

Lord,

Remind us who we are before You.
Reorder our priorities according to Your will and Your pace.
Teach us to trust You with time, outcomes, and unfinished work.
May our leadership flow from obedience rather than striving.

Amen.

When Ministry Flows From Being God’s Beloved

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 14:15:33 GMT

When ministry flows from knowing we are God’s beloved, leadership becomes lighter without becoming shallow.

Most pastors and ministry leaders would never describe themselves as competitive. They did not enter the ministry to compare platforms, attendance, or visibility. Their desire was to be faithful, to shepherd well, and to serve Christ with integrity.

And yet, many leaders carry a quiet pressure; they rarely speak out loud.

It is not envy.
It is not ambition.
It is not dissatisfaction with God’s calling.

It is a comparison.

Comparison shows up subtly in ministry life. It arrives disguised as responsibility, diligence, or concern for effectiveness. It often sounds like faithful questions.

Am I doing enough?
Are we reaching as many people as we should?
Is my leadership bearing fruit in the way it ought to?

These questions do not come from rebellion. They come from a desire to honor God. But when left unchecked, they begin to reshape identity.

When identity shifts, ministry grows heavier.

Scripture invites leaders to examine not just what they are doing, but who they believe they are while doing it.

Identity Established Before Assignment

One of the most formative moments in Jesus’ life occurs before His public ministry begins.

In Matthew 3, Jesus is baptized, and as He comes up out of the water, the Father speaks.

This is My beloved Son. With Him I am well pleased.

This declaration comes before teaching, before miracles, before suffering, before the cross. Jesus has not yet preached a sermon, healed a sick person, or gathered crowds. And yet, the Father’s pleasure is already clear.

Jesus is loved before He leads.
Affirmed before He acts.
Delighted in before He produces.

This order matters deeply for Christian leadership.

When leaders forget this order, ministry becomes a place to secure affirmation rather than a place to express obedience. The work continues, but the heart quietly shifts from being God’s beloved to striving for approval.

Paul understood this danger well. In Galatians 1, he speaks plainly about the temptation to seek approval. He makes it clear that his leadership is no longer shaped by the opinions of others, but by obedience to God.

When identity is settled in God’s love, approval loses its power.
When identity becomes unsettled, comparison fills the gap.

How Comparison Quietly Expands the Load

Comparison rarely demands that leaders abandon faithfulness. Instead, it subtly expands what they feel responsible to carry.

Leaders begin to notice what others are doing and ask whether they should be doing the same. New initiatives are added, not because God has clearly spoken, but because they seem expected. Responsibilities accumulate, not through prayerful discernment, but through unspoken pressure.

Comparison often reshapes ministry in these ways:

Commitments are accepted because they look faithful, not because they are assigned.
Expectations are carried because they feel normal, not because they are biblical.
Burdens are held because others appear to manage them, not because God has entrusted them.

Scripture offers clarity here. Ephesians 2 reminds us that God prepared good works in advance for us to walk in. The implication is important.

Not every good work is meant for every leader.

When leaders serve outside their assignment, ministry begins to draw from insecurity rather than calling. The work may still be good, but the weight becomes unsustainable.

This is not a failure of devotion. It is a misalignment of identity.

Being God’s Beloved Changes How Leaders Measure Faithfulness

When ministry flows from knowing we are deeply loved by God, the way leaders measure faithfulness changes.

Faithfulness is no longer measured by comparison to others.
It is no longer measured by visibility or expansion.
It is no longer measured by outcomes alone.

Faithfulness becomes rooted in obedience.

Jesus’ life consistently reflected this reality. He did not heal everyone. He did not go everywhere. He did not respond to every request immediately. And yet, His leadership was perfectly faithful because it was perfectly obedient.

Knowing we are beloved frees leaders from false measurements.

When leaders know they are loved before they are productive, they can release the need to prove their worth through ministry activity. They can trust God with outcomes rather than trying to manage them.

Christian Leadership and Sabbaticals Restore Identity

Christian leadership and sabbaticals are deeply connected because both call leaders back to who they are before God.

Sabbaticals create space for leaders to step out of constant comparison and rediscover identity. They interrupt the rhythm of proving, measuring, and performing.

In Hebrews 4, rest is described as an act of belief. Rest declares that God is faithful even when we stop. It confesses limits and acknowledges that the work belongs to Him.

For pastors and missionaries, sabbatical seasons often become moments where striving is exposed and identity is restored.

During seasons of intentional rest, leaders are reminded:

They are loved apart from output.
God’s work continues without their constant involvement.
Fruit is produced by God, not manufactured by leaders.
Identity is received, not earned.

Sabbaticals are not retreats from calling. They are returns to truth.

They help leaders release false ownership of ministry and reestablish trust in God’s sufficiency.

Rest as Trust and Worship

Rest is not the opposite of faithfulness. It is an expression of it.

When leaders rest, they declare that God is still at work. They acknowledge that they are servants, not saviors. They worship by trusting God with what they cannot control.

This kind of rest does not come naturally to leaders shaped by comparison. It must be learned and received.

Jesus Himself modeled this. He withdrew from crowds. He rested in the Father’s love. He trusted the Father with timing, outcomes, and provision.

Leadership rooted in being deeply loved by God does not fear rest. It welcomes it as obedience.

Pastoral Reflection for Leaders

Consider these questions slowly and honestly.

Where has comparison been shaping my commitments?
Am I serving from confidence in God’s love or striving for approval?
What responsibilities feel heavy because they did not come from God’s voice?
What might obedience look like if comparison no longer guided my decisions?

These questions are not meant to accuse. They are meant to invite clarity.

God does not shame leaders for carrying too much. He invites them to lay it down.

An Invitation to Lead From the Right Place

When ministry flows from knowing we are God’s beloved, leadership becomes lighter without becoming shallow.

The work remains serious.
The calling remains weighty.
The responsibility remains real.

But the burden shifts.

Comparison loosens its grip.
Trust deepens.
Obedience steadies the soul.

Leaders no longer measure themselves against others. They measure themselves by faithfulness to God’s voice.

This is not a call to do less ministry.
It is an invitation to do ministry from the right place.

From being deeply loved.
From trust.
From obedience.

A Closing Prayer

Father,

Remind us that we are Yours before we are called to lead.
Free us from comparison and the need to prove our faithfulness.
Restore our confidence in Your love for us.
Teach us to serve from obedience rather than striving.
We trust You with the work, the fruit, and the outcomes.

Amen.

Abiding Sets the Agenda

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 14:54:44 GMT

Leaders who abide do not do less because they are disengaged; they do less because they are discerning.

Most pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders do not question whether the work matters. They know it does. Souls are shepherded. Scripture is preached. People are walked through grief, repentance, reconciliation, and hope. The calling is clear, and the responsibility is carried with sincerity.

And yet, many faithful leaders quietly sense that something about the pace feels off.

The days fill quickly.
Decisions stack on top of decisions.
Moments for prayer still exist, but they feel compressed.
Listening happens, but often after responding.

Nothing feels openly disobedient. There is no clear sin to confess or abandon. The work is still good. The intention is still faithfulness. And yet, the soul feels rushed.

Scripture offers language for this experience. It reminds us that leadership is not only about what we do, but about what shapes us as we do it.

What we abide in always sets the agenda.

Jesus Never Led From Urgency

In John 15, Jesus gives one of the clearest foundations for Christian leadership. He does not begin with instruction, correction, or outcome. He begins with relationship.

Remain in Me.

This invitation establishes order. It is not poetic language meant to inspire. It is a governing reality meant to shape life and leadership.

Abiding comes first.
Fruit follows.
Endurance grows from connection, not exertion.

Jesus consistently modeled this order. Throughout the Gospels, He refused to allow urgency to dictate direction, even when need surrounded Him.

When crowds gathered, He withdrew to pray.
When demands increased, He listened for the Father’s voice.
When disciples panicked, He slowed the moment rather than accelerating it.

Jesus never confused activity with obedience. He never allowed pressure to replace discernment. He led from intimacy with the Father, not from the intensity of demand.

Abiding set His agenda.

This was not incidental. It was essential to His faithfulness.

How Urgency Quietly Replaces Abiding

For pastors and ministry leaders, urgency often feels holy. The needs are real. The people matter. The decisions feel time sensitive.

Scripture does not deny urgency. It simply refuses to let urgency lead.

When abiding slips from first place, leaders often experience subtle shifts that are difficult to name.

Prayer continues, but it becomes functional rather than formative.
Discernment gives way to reaction.
Invitations are accepted quickly, then examined later.
Time feels full, but clarity feels thin.

These shifts do not announce themselves as sin. They often present themselves as responsibility. The leader feels needed. The work feels urgent. Saying yes feels faithful.

Over time, however, the soul begins to register strain.

Burnout in ministry frequently begins here. Not with exhaustion, but with displacement. Abiding remains present, but it is no longer shaping the agenda.

Christian Leadership and Sabbaticals Restore Right Order

Christian leadership and sabbaticals belong together because both are rooted in trust.

In Mark 6, Jesus invites His disciples to step away after an intense season of ministry. This invitation does not follow failure or collapse. It follows faithfulness.

Come away by yourselves to a quiet place and rest a while.

Jesus recognizes that sustained ministry without withdrawal eventually distorts discernment. Even faithful work can become misaligned when leaders never step away to listen.

Sabbaticals are not escapes from calling. They are returns to source.

They create space where leaders can:

Hear God without constant demand.
Re-anchor identity before responsibility.
Release false ownership of outcomes.
Receive rest without guilt.

Sabbaticals restore abiding to its rightful place. They allow leaders to remember who they are before God and what God has actually entrusted to them.

They do not weaken leadership. They steady it.

Abiding Shapes Faithful Time Stewardship

Psalm 90 teaches us to number our days so that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Wisdom is not speed. Wisdom is alignment with God’s pace.

Time stewardship in ministry does not begin with calendars or systems. It begins with abiding.

When leaders abide, time begins to take its proper shape.

They recognize which responsibilities are theirs to carry.
They learn what can wait without fear.
They lead from listening rather than reaction.
They trust God with what remains unfinished.

Abiding does not reduce responsibility. It orders it.

Leaders who abide do not do less because they are disengaged. They do less because they are discerning. Their time reflects trust rather than control.

Why Leaders Struggle to Slow Down

Many faithful leaders struggle to slow down not because they distrust God, but because they love people deeply. They feel responsibility for others’ wellbeing. They fear letting someone down. They worry that stepping away might harm the work.

Scripture meets this fear with gentle correction.

Psalm 127 reminds us that unless the Lord builds the house, those who labor labor in vain. This does not mean the work is wrong. It means the weight may be misplaced.

Abiding allows leaders to release responsibility back to God. It teaches them that faithfulness does not require constant presence, only obedient presence.

Pastoral Reflection for Leaders

Consider these questions slowly and prayerfully.

What has been setting my agenda lately?
Where has urgency displaced listening?
What responsibilities feel heavy because they are being carried without discernment?
What might change if abiding came first again?

These questions are not meant to produce guilt. They are meant to restore clarity.

God does not compete with urgency. He invites leaders to return.

An Invitation to Recenter

Abiding sets the agenda. It always has.

When leaders return to the vine, the work remains faithful, but the weight shifts. Leadership becomes steadier. Discernment deepens. The soul breathes again.

This is not a call to withdraw from ministry. It is a call to return to the source of it.

Leadership rooted in abiding is not hurried. It is faithful.

A Closing Prayer

Lord,

Draw us back to You.
Teach us to abide before we act.
Quiet what is loud and reorder our days according to Your will.
May our leadership be shaped by Your presence rather than urgency.

Amen.

You Can’t Prioritize Well If You Don’t Know Who You Are

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 15:44:05 GMT

When identity is rooted again in Christ, priorities realign naturally.

Most pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders do not struggle because they lack commitment. They struggle because they carry weight faithfully for a long time.

They show up.
They preach.
They counsel.
They lead teams.
They respond to needs that matter deeply.

And yet, many faithful leaders eventually sense a quiet disorientation.

The calendar stays full, but clarity feels thinner.
The work remains meaningful, but the joy feels harder to access.
Prayer continues, Scripture is opened, sermons are prepared, yet the weight feels heavier than it once did.

This weariness is rarely rooted in rebellion or neglect. More often, it comes from subtle misalignment.

Scripture helps us name what is happening.

When identity becomes unclear, priorities begin to drift.

Identity Always Shapes Priority

Christian leadership does not begin with responsibility. It begins with relationship.

In John 15, Jesus does not start with instruction or correction. He begins with identity.

I am the vine.
You are the branches.

This is not a poetic image meant to inspire. It is a theological reality meant to govern life and leadership.

A branch does not decide what fruit to produce.
It does not generate life.
It remains connected and bears what flows from the vine.

When leaders forget this order, priorities quietly shift.

Instead of flowing from calling, leadership begins responding to pressure.

Instead of abiding, leaders begin managing.

Instead of discernment, urgency takes the lead.

Paul names this clearly in Galatians 2:20. He describes leadership as shared life, not self generated effort.

His life is no longer sustained by striving. It is sustained by Christ living in him.

When identity is settled in Christ, priorities find their proper place.
When identity becomes blurred, even faithful work becomes heavy.

Why Faithful Leaders Struggle to Say No

Many pastors and ministry leaders struggle with overextension not because they lack discipline, but because they care deeply.

They feel responsibility for people.
They feel loyalty to congregations and teams.
They feel the weight of stewardship.

Scripture never equates faithfulness with limitless availability.

In Exodus 18, Moses is faithfully leading God’s people. His effort is sincere. His intentions are good. Yet Jethro observes something concerning.

Moses is doing too much.
The people are waiting too long.
The system is unsustainable.

Jethro’s counsel is not about doing less good work. It is about doing assigned work.

Not every burden is meant to be carried by one leader.
Not every need is a personal responsibility.
Not every good work is God’s work for you.

Overextension often reveals a shift in identity.

When leaders feel needed rather than called, priorities begin to orbit around expectation instead of obedience.

Serving outside assignments always costs more than serving within calling.

Christian Leadership and Sabbaticals as Acts of Obedience

Conversations around Christian leadership and sabbaticals are often framed around recovery. Scripture frames them around trust.

Jesus regularly withdrew from the crowds.
He stepped away from need, demand, and opportunity.
He sought solitude with the Father.

These moments were not reactions to burnout. They were rhythms of obedience.

Jesus rested because He trusted the Father’s work more than His own activity.

For pastors and ministry leaders, sabbaticals function in a similar way.

A sabbatical is not a reward for endurance.
It is not a response to failure.
It is not a luxury for the weary.

It says God sustains the ministry.
It says fruit belongs to Him.
It says leadership is rooted in identity, not constant presence.

Sabbaticals reorder identity before they restore strength.

They remind leaders they are sons and daughters before they are servants.
They reestablish God’s pace in lives shaped by constant responsibility.

Burnout as Misaligned Stewardship

Burnout in ministry is often misunderstood. Scripture does not frame it as weakness or lack of faith.

Burnout often reveals that we are carrying more than God asked us to carry.

Psalm 127 reminds us that unless the Lord builds the house, those who labor labor in vain. This does not mean the work is wrong. It means the weight has shifted.

Elijah’s story in 1 Kings 19 illustrates this well.

After faithful and powerful ministry, Elijah collapses under fear and exhaustion. God does not shame him. God meets him.

God provides rest.
God provides nourishment.
God speaks quietly, not with spectacle.

God addresses both Elijah’s body and his identity.

Burnout often signals that a leader is carrying what God did not assign, at a pace God did not set.

Time Alone With God Recalibrates Identity

Throughout Scripture, God recalibrates leaders through presence, not pressure.

David is shaped in hidden fields.
Paul spends years in obscurity.
Jesus’ ministry begins only after His identity is publicly affirmed.

This is My beloved Son.
With Him I am well pleased.

That affirmation comes before miracles, before teaching, before sacrifice.

Time alone with God does not steal from ministry. It anchors it.

For pastors and missionaries, intentional withdrawal allows leaders to:

Hear God’s voice without constant demand.
Release false ownership of outcomes.
Recenter leadership around obedience.
Restore identity before responsibility.

Sabbaticals and retreats create space for God to remind leaders who they are and what they are truly called to carry.

Pastoral Reflection for Leaders

Consider these questions slowly and prayerfully.

Who does God say I am in this season?
What has He actually entrusted to me?
What am I carrying that did not come from His voice?

These are not questions of efficiency or productivity.

They are questions of faithfulness.

Faithful Christian leadership does not require doing everything.
It requires doing what God assigns with trust and obedience.

Ordered Priorities Flow From Settled Identity

When identity is settled, priorities become clearer.

Decisions feel lighter.
Comparison loses its grip.
Urgency no longer dictates obedience.

Galatians 6 reminds us to carry our own load while bearing one another’s burdens. The distinction matters.

A long obedience in the same direction requires an ordered life.
That order flows from identity, not effort.

Christian leadership becomes sustainable when leaders live from who God says they are.

An Invitation to Return

You cannot prioritize well if you do not know who you are.

But when identity is rooted again in Christ, priorities realign naturally.

Time reflects trust.
Rest becomes worship.
Sabbaticals become obedience.

Return to the vine.
Let God remind you who you are.
Let Him reorder what matters.

Leadership will follow.

A Closing Prayer

Lord,

Remind us who we are before You.
Settle our identity in Your love and calling.
Reorder our priorities according to Your will and Your pace.
Teach us to trust You with what we release and what we carry.
May our leadership flow from abiding, not striving.

Amen.

Holding the Line When the New Year Gets Heavy

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:37:25 GMT

Faithfulness is sustained in the middle, in the weeks when nothing feels new anymore.

By this week of January, most of the language of new beginnings has faded.

Calendars are full again. The pace has returned. Whatever rest the holidays offered feels distant now, replaced by meetings, messages, and responsibilities that did not wait long to reappear.

For many pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders, this is the moment when weariness quietly settles back in.

Not because anything has gone wrong.
But because the work is real, and it is constant.

Scripture speaks to this moment with unusual clarity. Not with urgency, and not with guilt, but with an invitation to steady faithfulness rooted in God’s order rather than human endurance.

The Long Obedience After the New Beginning

January often begins with hope. Vision. Prayerful resolve. But faithful Christian leadership is rarely sustained by beginnings alone. It is sustained in the middle. In the weeks when nothing feels new anymore.

Jesus does not promise relief from responsibility. He promises presence within it.

Matthew 6:33 remains as steady in late January as it was on January first
Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.

Seeking first is not something leaders complete at the beginning of the year and then move past. It is a daily return. A quiet holding of the line when pressure begins to reshape priorities again.

Psalm 127 and the Weight That Slowly Returns

Psalm 127 does not speak to the crisis alone. It speaks to continuity.

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.

This is not a rebuke. It is a reminder. When leadership continues day after day, it is easy to begin carrying what once belonged to trust.

Leaders often feel this shift subtly
Decisions feel heavier
Sleep grows lighter
Prayer becomes shorter
Rest feels harder to receive

None of this signals failure. It signals the need for realignment.

Faithful Leadership Is Sustained, Not Surged

Scripture consistently portrays leadership as long obedience rather than short bursts of intensity.

Galatians 6:9 offers quiet encouragement
Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.

This weariness is not moral weakness. It is human limitation. God never intended leaders to sustain ministry by force of will. He sustains them through ordered lives, what belongs to You alone. Amen.

When the Calendar Fills Before the Heart Is Anchored

By late January, many leaders realize their calendar has filled faster than their soul has settled.

The danger is not busyness itself. The danger is allowing urgency to define what faithfulness looks like. When the calendar sets the pace, God’s order quietly recedes.

This is where rest becomes essential again. Not as an escape. But as obedience.

Rest as a Midseason Act of Trust

Rest is often associated with endings or breaks. Scripture presents rest as something woven into ongoing obedience.

Sabbath was given in the middle of work, not after it was finished. Sabbaticals function the same way. They interrupt momentum not to weaken leadership, but to restore trust.

For pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders, rest says
God is at work beyond my effort
My presence is valuable, but not essential
Faithfulness includes stopping when God invites it.

A Pastoral Word to Leaders Who Are Still Standing

If you are faithful but tired in this season, you are not behind. You are not failing. You are simply human, carrying sacred responsibility.

Scripture does not urge you to push harder. It invites you to return again to first things.

Ask gently
What is shaping my pace right now
Where has trust been replaced by effort
What would obedience look like this week, not heroics

Late January is not a test of endurance. It is an invitation to remain aligned.

God is not asking for more from you. He is asking for faithfulness rooted in His presence.

Prayer
Lord, as the year settles into its steady rhythm, keep our lives ordered around You. Teach us to hold the line of faithfulness without carrying what belongs to You alone. Amen.

Obedience Before Outcomes

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:46:29 GMT

Obedience anchors leadership in relationship rather than results.

A word for ministry leaders tempted to measure faithfulness by results

Burnout in ministry rarely begins with rebellion.

It almost always begins with faithfulness stretched beyond order .

Leaders continue serving long after their souls begin signaling the need for rest. Not because they have lost their calling but because they care deeply, feel responsible, and quietly believe that stopping might mean failing.

Most burned-out leaders did not walk away from God.
They simply kept walking, faster and heavier, without stopping to ask whether the pace was still His.

Scripture offers a corrective that is both humbling and freeing:

God never asked leaders to trade obedience for outcomes.

When Faithfulness Quietly Turns Into Burden

Ministry leaders are rarely driven by ego. More often, they are driven by concern:

Concern for people who are hurting
Concern for churches that feel fragile
Concern for momentum, provision, and sustainability
Concern that if they slow down, something important will be lost

Over time, concern can quietly turn into responsibility and responsibility into pressure.

Leaders begin to feel accountable not only for obedience, but for results.

Attendance.
Growth.
Spiritual fruit.
Long-term success.

The work remains good.
The calling remains sincere.
But the weight becomes unsustainable.

Burnout often comes not from doing the wrong things
but from doing the right things in the wrong order .

Scripture Reframes What Success Actually Is

The Apostle Paul speaks directly to leaders who are tempted to measure themselves by visible impact:

“It is required of stewards that they be found faithful.”
1 Corinthians 4:2

Notice what Paul does not say.

He does not say stewards must be effective.
He does not say they must be impressive.
He does not say they must secure outcomes.

He says they must be faithful .

Faithfulness is the metric God uses because outcomes have always belonged to Him.

Throughout Scripture, God consistently affirms obedience even when results are unseen, delayed, or misunderstood. Many of God’s most faithful servants never witnessed the full fruit of their obedience.

Faithfulness is not validated by immediate success.
It is validated by trust.

When Leaders Begin to Carry What God Never Assigned

Burnout often accelerates when leaders quietly assume responsibility for what only God can produce.

This happens subtly.

A leader begins to feel personally responsible for:

Whether people grow spiritually
Whether the church thrives
Whether the ministry survives future seasons

But Scripture is clear:
God never asked His servants to secure results.
He asked them to walk with Him .

When leaders confuse obedience with outcome management:

Anxiety replaces peace
Control replaces trust
Exhaustion replaces joy

The work continues, but the soul begins to thin.

God’s Pace Has Always Protected the Soul

God’s concern for the soul of His people is not an afterthought. It is foundational.

Exodus 20 establishes rest as obedience, not indulgence:

“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.”

Sabbath is not optional for God’s people.
It is woven into creation itself.

God does not introduce rest once people are exhausted.
He introduces it before exhaustion takes hold.

For leaders carrying long-term responsibility, sabbaticals extend this same principle. They are not modern conveniences or leadership perks. They are acknowledgments of human limitation and divine sufficiency.

God’s pace has always been protective, not restrictive.

The Danger of Letting Good Work Replace God’s Work

Ministry becomes spiritually dangerous not when leaders abandon God but when ministry begins to replace communion with Him .

Even sacred work can displace the sacred if priorities drift.

This happens when:

Prayer becomes preparation instead of presence
Scripture becomes content instead of nourishment
Rest feels irresponsible
Silence feels unproductive

The leader remains busy for God, but slowly loses awareness of God.

This is not disobedience in appearance…
it is displacement in practice.

Why Obedience Must Come Before Outcomes

Obedience anchors leadership in relationship rather than results.

When obedience comes first:

Leaders are freed from outcome-based identity
Decisions are shaped by discernment, not fear
Rest is received without guilt
Faithfulness is sustained over time

When outcomes come first:

Pressure increases
Joy diminishes
Control tightens
Burnout follows

God’s design has never been outcome-driven leadership.
It has always been obedience-formed leadership .

Wisdom for Sustainable Leadership

Faithful Christian leadership requires a quiet but firm reordering of values.

It means choosing:

Obedience over outcomes
Trust over control
Rest as worship
Time as stewardship, not ownership

These choices are rarely dramatic.
They are daily, ordinary, and deeply countercultural.

They require leaders to believe, again and again, that God is faithful to His work, even when they step back.

A Gentle Invitation to Release What Isn’t Yours

If you feel tired, it may not be because you are failing.

It may be because you are carrying what God never asked you to hold.

Faithfulness does not require exhaustion.
Obedience does not require anxiety.
Leadership does not require ownership of outcomes.

You are invited to return, again, to simple obedience.

Not because it is easy.
But because it is freeing.

A Closing Prayer for Leaders

Lord,
Free us from measuring ourselves by outcomes.
Restore joy in simple obedience.
Teach us to trust You with what we cannot control.
Anchor our leadership again in faithfulness, not results.

Amen.

Starting the Year Aligned, Not Anxious

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:07:23 GMT

Starting the year aligned does not mean pretending everything is stable; it means placing the future back into God’s hands.

The beginning of a new year carries a particular weight for church and ministry leaders.

There is hope, genuine hope, for what God may do in the months ahead.
There is gratitude for what He has already sustained.
And there is often a quiet awareness of what feels unfinished, unresolved, or fragile.

For many leaders, January does not arrive with rest. It arrives with evaluation.

What worked.
What didn’t.
What still feels heavy.
What must somehow be sustained.

If anxiety surfaces in this space, it is rarely because leaders lack faith. More often, it is because they care deeply and they are carrying a great deal.

But Scripture offers a different way to begin the year.
Not by doing more.
Not by bracing for impact.

But by aligning life and leadership with God’s order and allowing anticipation to replace anxiety.

When Anxiety Is Really Anticipation Without Trust

Anxiety and excitement often feel remarkably similar in the body.

Both are forms of anticipation.
Both look ahead.
Both carry energy, expectation, and heightened awareness.

The difference is not the feeling itself,

it is what we believe about the future we are anticipating.

Anxiety says, “What if this falls apart?”
Excitement says, “What if God shows up in ways I cannot yet see?”

Many ministry leaders begin the year anxious, not because they are faithless, but because anticipation has quietly been severed from trust. When the future feels dependent on our effort, anticipation turns into fear.

Scripture does not call leaders to eliminate anticipation.
It calls leaders to anchor it .

God’s Order Always Precedes Fruitfulness

Psalm 127 provides a grounding truth for leaders standing at the edge of a new season:

“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.”

This verse does not remove responsibility.
It reassigns it.

When leaders believe the future rests on them, anxiety is a natural response. But when leadership begins from alignment with God’s order, anticipation becomes possible again.

God’s order always comes before fruitfulness.

This is where anxiety can begin to shift not into naïve optimism, but into faith-filled expectancy .

From Anxious Evaluation to Faithful Expectation

The start of the year often tempts leaders to look backward before they look upward.

We review numbers.
We assess sustainability.
We measure fruit.

Reflection has its place. But when reflection is not anchored in trust, it becomes heavy.

Faithful leadership begins the year not only asking, “What must be sustained?”
But also, “What might God do?”

Expectation does not deny reality.
It acknowledges God’s presence within it.

Jesus Models Anticipation Rooted in Trust

Jesus’ life shows us that expectancy and obedience are not opposites.

Before public ministry, He withdraws not in fear, but in readiness.
Before choosing the twelve, He prays not from anxiety, but from alignment.
Before feeding the crowds, He gives thanks, anticipating provision before it appears.

Jesus never rushes.
He is not anxious about outcomes.
His confidence rests in the Father’s faithfulness.

Christian leadership is formed in God’s presence before it is expressed in action.

When leaders begin from trust, anticipation becomes holy ground rather than emotional strain.

Anxiety as a Signal and an Invitation

Anxiety is not always a sign that something is wrong.

Often, it is a signal that leaders are standing at the edge of something unknown, something that matters.

The invitation of Scripture is not to suppress anxiety, but to reinterpret it through trust :

“Cast all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.”

What if the energy we label as anxiety is sometimes an invitation to expectancy?

What if, instead of bracing ourselves for what might go wrong, we allowed ourselves to anticipate what God might do?

This is not denial.
It is surrender.

Beginning the Year with Alignment, Expectancy, and Rest

Starting the year aligned does not mean pretending everything is stable.

It means placing the future back into God’s hands.

Alignment looks like:

Naming what belongs to God
Releasing outcomes we cannot control
Receiving rest without apology
Honoring limits as stewardship
Allowing anticipation to replace fear

When leaders trust God with the future, excitement becomes possible again, not as hype, but as hope.

Rest as the Soil of Expectancy

Rest does not kill momentum.
It purifies it.

For pastors and ministry leaders, intentional rest through retreats, sabbaticals, or unhurried rhythms creates space for expectancy to return.

Rest says:

God is already at work
I do not need to strive to secure the future
I can look ahead with hope, not fear

When leaders rest, they stop scanning for threats and begin watching for God.

A Different Way to Begin

You do not have to begin the year anxious.

You can begin it aligned.
You can begin it trusting.
You can even begin it expectant.

Not because everything is certain,
but because God is faithful .

Alignment brings peace.
Expectation brings joy.
Faithfulness sustains leadership.

A Closing Prayer for the New Year

Lord,
As this year begins, reorder our hearts.
Where anxiety has taken root, restore expectancy.
Teach us to trust Your work more than our effort.
Help us look ahead with anticipation of Your faithfulness.

Amen.

Why “Seek First” Is a Leadership Strategy

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 15:54:11 GMT

For pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders, the greatest danger is rarely inactivity. It is activity that becomes detached from first things.

A word for pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders navigating urgency.

Christian leadership almost always feels urgent.

There are people waiting.
Decisions that feel time-sensitive.
Needs that do not pause simply because your soul is tired.

Emails stack up. Conversations linger. Sermons must be prepared. Crises arise without warning. And in the middle of it all, leaders often carry a quiet, unspoken pressure: If I don’t act quickly, something important might fall apart.

In those moments, seeking God can subtly shift from being the foundation of leadership to something we intend to return to after the work is done.

After the meeting.
After the sermon.
After the season passes.

Yet Scripture insists on a different order altogether.

Seeking God is not a pause in leadership.
It is not a retreat from responsibility.
It is not a luxury reserved for slower seasons.

Seeking God is the strategy itself.

For pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders, the greatest danger is rarely inactivity. It is activity that becomes detached from first things.

The Pressure to Lead From Urgency

Ministry urgency often feels justified because much of it is.

People’s lives are involved. Souls matter. Time feels precious.

But urgency has a way of quietly becoming the primary driver of leadership if it is left unchecked. When that happens:

Decisions are made quickly, but not always prayerfully
Prayer becomes preparatory rather than relational
Scripture becomes fuel for output rather than nourishment for the soul
Leaders begin reacting more than discerning

Over time, leadership that is driven primarily by urgency begins to feel heavy, not because the work is wrong, but because the pace no longer reflects trust.

This is where Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:33 confront our assumptions:

“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

Jesus does not deny the reality of need.
He does not shame responsibility.
He reorders leadership at its core.

"Seek First" Is Not Passive Leadership

Matthew 6:33 is often read devotionally, but it is profoundly practical for leaders.

“Seek first” is not an abstract spiritual posture.
It is a daily ordering of attention, affection, and trust .

Seeking first means leadership decisions emerge from God’s presence rather than pressure. It means leaders listen before acting even when action feels urgent.

Throughout Scripture, this pattern is unmistakable:

Moses meets with God before confronting Pharaoh
David inquires of the Lord before going into battle
Jesus withdraws to pray before choosing the twelve

None of these leaders were passive.
None were disengaged.
None lacked responsibility.

They simply refused to move ahead of God’s leading.

Seeking first is how God trains leaders to move at His pace, not merely at the pace of demand.

Psalm 127 and the Limits of Human Strategy

Psalm 127 offers a sobering word for leaders who feel responsible for outcomes:

“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.
Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.”

This is not a critique of effort.
It is a clarification of limits.

Human strategy, even when well-intended and well-executed, has boundaries. Leadership strategies detached from God’s leading may appear productive for a time, but they exhaust the leader and rarely produce lasting fruit.

God does not ask leaders to secure the future of His work.
He asks them to walk with Him in the present.

When leaders quietly take responsibility for outcomes God never assigned, anxiety creeps in. Rest begins to feel irresponsible. Delegation feels risky. Slowing down feels dangerous.

This is where Psalm 127 gently but firmly confronts our illusions of control.

When Leadership Is Driven by Outcomes

Many ministry leaders feel an unspoken pressure to justify their work with visible results.

Attendance numbers
Growth metrics
Expansion opportunities
Financial sustainability
Measurable impact

None of these are inherently wrong. But they become spiritually dangerous when they quietly replace faithfulness as the primary measure of leadership.

Scripture offers a different metric altogether:

“It is required of stewards that they be found faithful.”
1 Corinthians 4:2

Faithfulness is the measure God uses.
Outcomes belong to Him.

When leaders are driven primarily by outcomes:

Decision-making narrows
Risk aversion increases
Burnout accelerates
Trust erodes

But when leaders "seek first", they are freed from carrying what only God can produce.

"Seek First" Reorders Time and Trust

Seeking first reshapes how leaders steward both time and responsibility.

It changes not only what leaders do, but how and why they do it.

When God is first:

Prayer becomes central , not squeezed in
Decisions slow down enough to discern God’s leading
Rest is received without guilt or fear
Sabbath and sabbaticals are honored as acts of obedience
Trust replaces control

This does not mean leadership becomes careless or disengaged.
It means leadership becomes aligned.

Christian leadership that seeks first trusts God with continuity, trusting that the work of God does not hinge on constant visibility or relentless presence.

Seeking First and the Theology of Rest

This is where Christian leadership and sabbaticals intersect deeply.

Rest is not a retreat from responsibility.
It is a declaration of trust.

A sabbatical does not say, “The work does not matter.”
It says, “God governs what continues when I stop.”

For many leaders, the resistance to rest is not logistical, it is theological.

Rest forces leaders to confront questions they would rather avoid:

Do I believe God sustains this ministry apart from me?
Do I trust Him with what happens when I am not present?
Have I confused stewardship with ownership?

Seeking first is not only about prayer and discernment.
It is about trusting God enough to stop.

A Word for Leaders Considering Sabbaticals

For pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders, a sabbatical is not an escape from work.

It is an act of obedience.

Taking intentional rest is one of the clearest ways leaders can say:

God is at work even when I am not present
My leadership is stewardship, not ownership
Obedience matters more than visibility
Trust matters more than control

Sabbaticals, when rooted in seeking first, become a form of leadership rather than a departure from it.

They preach, quietly but powerfully, that God remains faithful beyond any single leader’s effort.

Why Seeking First Is Not Optional

Seeking first is not an accessory to Christian leadership.
It is the only way leadership remains faithful over time.

Without it:

Urgency becomes the master
Outcomes become the measure
Leaders carry weight they were never meant to bear

With it:

Leadership flows from trust
Decisions reflect discernment
Rest becomes possible
Faithfulness is preserved

Jesus’ invitation remains the same...not conditional, not delayed:

"Seek first".

A Closing Prayer for Leaders

Lord,
Teach us again to seek You first.
Free us from the weight of outcomes that belong to You alone.
Restore trust where urgency has taken over.
Align our leadership with Your presence and Your pace.

Amen.

When Good Priorities Are Still Out of Order

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 13:58:20 GMT

Many leaders wake up tired, not because they are doing the wrong work, but because the right work has begun to crowd out the first work.

A word for weary pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders

There is a particular kind of exhaustion that shows up in faithful leaders.

It doesn’t come from rebellion.
It doesn’t come from compromise.
And it rarely comes from laziness.

It comes from carrying too many good things for too long without realizing that the order quietly shifted.

Most pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders are not worn down because they love the wrong things. They are worn down because they love the right things deeply and sincerely:

Sermons prepared prayerfully
People shepherded through grief, conflict, repentance, and joy
Churches and ministries sustained through unseen, uncelebrated faithfulness
Families loved in the margins of long days
Communities served with consistency and care

None of this is small work. None of this is meaningless. Much of it is holy.

And yet, even in a life filled with good priorities, something subtle can begin to slip out of order.

Not all at once.
Not dramatically.
But slowly, quietly, under the accumulating weight of responsibility.

Many leaders wake up tired, not because they are doing the wrong work, but because the right work has begun to crowd out the first work.

The Quiet Drift of Faithful Leadership

Spiritual drift in leadership rarely announces itself.

It doesn’t usually look like walking away from God.
It looks like walking with God, but always a few steps behind urgency.

It sounds like:

“I’ll tend to my own soul after this season.”
“Once things stabilize, I’ll slow down.”
“God understands the demands of leadership right now.”

None of those statements are false. In fact, they often sound wise and reasonable.

But over time, they can quietly excuse a reordering where ministry begins to lead God rather than follow Him.

It is possible to:

Pray often and still live reactively
Teach Scripture faithfully and still make decisions driven by urgency
Love people deeply, and slowly begin to neglect the presence of God

Burnout in ministry often doesn’t come from overwork alone.
It comes from misalignment .

When God is no longer first… even good work becomes heavy.

A Biblical Foundation for Ordered Leadership

Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:33 are familiar, but they remain relentlessly searching:

“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

Notice what Jesus does not do.

He does not minimize daily needs.
He does not dismiss responsibility.

He does not scold people for caring about provision, outcomes, or stability.

Instead, He reorders them.

The issue is not whether these things matter; it is whether they are first .

Psalm 127 presses this same truth from another angle:

“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.”

This is not a rebuke of effort.
It is a warning about displacement .

God does not oppose diligence.
He opposes being replaced.

When even good priorities take the place that belongs to God alone, weariness follows, not because the work is wrong, but because the weight was never meant to be carried that way.

Psalm 127 and the Weight Leaders Were Never Meant to Carry

Psalm 127 speaks directly to leaders who rise early and stay up late:

“It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil.”

Anxious toil does not mean lazy leadership.
It means leadership that carries outcomes God never assigned.

Many ministry leaders quietly begin to believe they are personally responsible for:

Church growth
Attendance numbers
Financial stability
Program success
Spiritual outcomes in others

Long-term sustainability

But Scripture is clear:
God never asked His servants to secure outcomes. He asked for obedience.

When leaders move from obedience to ownership, pressure replaces peace.
Trust is replaced by control.
Calling is replaced by burden.

And over time, even faithful leaders begin to feel crushed by expectations they were never meant to hold.

When Good Priorities Become Disordered

Here is the uncomfortable truth:

Not all disordered priorities are sinful.
Some are simply misplaced.

A leader can sincerely value:

Prayer
Scripture
Family
Rest
Community

…and still functionally give first place to:

Urgency
Crisis
Reaction
Productivity
People’s expectations

This is how good priorities quietly move out of order.

When God is sought eventually instead of first
When prayer becomes preparation instead of presence
When Scripture becomes material instead of nourishment

The result isn’t immediate collapse.
It’s slow depletion.

Ordered Priorities Shape Sustainable Ministry

Faithful Christian leadership is sustained not by intensity, but by order.

When God is first:

Decisions become clearer
Urgency loses its grip
Rest becomes possible without guilt
Leadership flows from trust rather than pressure

This does not remove responsibility.
It rightly locates it .

Leaders who seek God first still work hard.
They still carry responsibility.
They still lead with seriousness and care.

But they do so from alignment , not anxiety.

A Gentle Diagnostic for Ministry Leaders

If you are a pastor, missionary, or ministry leader, the question is not:

“Am I committed?”

Most leaders reading this are deeply committed.

The better questions are quieter and more revealing:

What receives my first attention when pressure hits?
What shapes my decisions when time is short?
What do I protect without question?
What do I postpone indefinitely?

These questions are not accusations.
They are invitations.

Invitations to alignment.
Invitations to re-order what may have quietly slipped out of place.

Faithfulness is not measured by how much you carry,
but by whom you follow.

Seek First…Not Eventually

Jesus does not say:

Seek first when the season eases
Seek first when things stabilize
Seek first once the ministry is secure

He says, simply:

Seek first.

Not eventually.
Not conditionally.
Not when it feels efficient.

First.

There is freedom here, not pressure.

Because when God is first, the house is no longer built on your strength alone.

A Closing Prayer for Leaders

Lord,
Reorder what has quietly slipped out of place.
Restore the simplicity of seeking You first.
Relieve us of the weight You never asked us to carry.
Teach us again the freedom of faithful obedience.

Amen.

Finishing The Year With Hope, Not Just Numbers

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 17:23:39 GMT

A Jesus-centered year-end review for ministry leaders and partners

As the year ends, most churches and ministries review:

Attendance
Giving
Programs
Events

Those things matter. They tell part of the story.

But if you only measure numbers, you can end December feeling like you have either “succeeded” or “failed” without ever asking a more important question:

How are the people doing

At Cedar Creek Ministries , we pay close attention to another set of numbers.

In recent years:

About 42 percent of pastors and ministry leaders said they had seriously considered quitting full-time ministry in the past year
More than 60 percent reported battling exhaustion, isolation, or loneliness

Behind every metric is a human soul, a family, a calling.

As we finish this year, we want to invite you, whether you are a pastor, a church leader, or a supporter of Cedar Creek Ministries , to review things a little differently.

A Different Kind Of Year-End Review For Pastors, Church Leaders, And Missionaries

Before you run the final numbers, take a quiet moment with the Lord and ask:

Where did I see God’s faithfulness this year
Not just in church growth, but in small, personal ways.
What did this year cost my soul and my family
Be honest, not dramatic.
Where did I sense God inviting me to slow down, and I ignored it
Where did I take steps toward healthier rhythms
Even if they felt small.

You are not just a producer of ministry outcomes. You are a person loved by God.

Your well-being is part of the Kingdom story, not a distraction from it.

A Different Kind Of Review For Churches

If you serve on a board, elder team, or leadership council, consider asking together:

Do we know how our pastor is really doing
Have we made space for regular rest, not just crisis recovery
Have we budgeted for sabbaticals, counseling, and care for leaders

Studies continue to show that when pastors and ministry leaders are supported in rest, counseling, and healthy rhythms, they are more likely to stay in ministry, lead with joy, and build healthier churches over time.

Investment in leader health is not a luxury. It is a growth strategy for the entire body.

A Different Kind Of Review For Supporters And Donors

If you love what Cedar Creek Ministries does, you already know this:

When pastors and ministry leaders rest, whole communities feel it.

Year-end is a critical time for ministries. Around 30 percent of annual charitable giving in the United States happens in December, and about 10 percent of all giving often occurs in the last three days of the year.

That means your decision to give now has a real, measurable impact.

Here is what your generosity makes possible in very practical terms:

More nights of rest for pastors and ministry families
More marriages strengthened quietly before crisis hits
More leaders who return to their churches with renewed vision instead of resignation

You are not just “donating to a ministry.”
You are strengthening the basecamp that supports countless churches and communities.

Three Questions To Pray Through As The Year Ends

Wherever you are in this story, here are three simple questions to sit with as the year closes:

Lord, how do You see this past year in my life and ministry
Let His voice be louder than your inner critic or your highlight reel.
What do You want to heal, restore, or realign in me before the new year begins
What step of obedience are You inviting me to take
For some, that might be planning a sabbatical.
For others, it might be becoming a monthly ministry partner to support pastoral care.
For others, it might be asking for help.

A Hope-Filled Final Word

If this year felt heavy, you are not behind.

If you are tired, you are not disqualified.

Your calling did not begin with your strength, and it will not be sustained by your strength. It began with Jesus, and He is committed to finishing what He started in you.

As we close out this year at Cedar Creek Ministries , we are:

Grateful for every pastor and ministry worker who stayed faithful in hard seasons
Grateful for every church that is learning to care well for their leaders

Grateful for every supporter who has made space for leaders to rest, restore, and revive their vision

Thank you for being part of this story.

When Christmas Feels Heavy for Pastors, Church Leaders, and Missionaries

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 13:22:32 GMT

Making space for grief and joy in the same season

For many people, Christmas is advertised as “the most wonderful time of the year.”

For pastors and ministry leaders, it can also be one of the heaviest.

In the same month, you may:

Comfort someone spending their first Christmas without a loved one
Preach to people who are smiling on the outside and breaking on the inside
Carry your own disappointments, losses, or financial pressure

And all of this while planning services meant to celebrate “joy to the world.”

If Christmas feels complicated for you this year, that does not make you unspiritual. It makes you honest.

Ministry At Christmas Is Emotional Work

The research on pastoral burnout rarely talks about tinsel and carols, but the themes are the same. Exhaustion, isolation, and the feeling that you have to be “okay” for everyone else are some of the top reasons pastors, church leaders, and missionaries consider quitting.

December tends to amplify all of that.

Attendance expectations rise
Giving goals rise
Emotions rise in nearly every conversation

You are carrying more hearts than usual, including your own.

So how do you walk through Christmas with integrity when you are not feeling endless cheer

1. Tell The Truth To God First

You do not have to fake joy in prayer.

Scripture gives us permission to lament, even in seasons of celebration. The Psalms are full of people saying, “This hurts,” while also saying, “You are still good, Lord.”

Before you step onto a platform or into another meeting, make room to say:

“Lord, this is where it hurts today.
This is where I feel tired.
This is where I need You to carry what I cannot.”

You are not less faithful because you bring God your grief. You are more honest.

2. Remember That Jesus Came Into Real Pain

We say it every year, but it is easy to forget:

Jesus did not come into a Hallmark movie.

He came into a world under oppression, to a family with limited resources, in a town that could not even find Him a proper room. His birth story includes joy and angels, but it also includes fear, danger, and a murderous king.

If your Christmas includes both joy and ache, you are closer to the first Christmas than you think.

You are not failing your congregation by acknowledging pain. You are helping them see why the Gospel matters.

3. Let Services Be Honest, Not Just Uplifting

You do not have to choose between hope and honesty.

This season, consider:

Including a moment in your service that names grief, loss, or loneliness
Inviting people who are hurting to stand or raise a hand for prayer
Sharing one story of God’s presence in the middle of real suffering

People remember the moments where they felt seen more than they remember the perfect program.

4. Give Yourself Permission To Be Human After The Service

When the last Christmas Eve candle is blown out, many pastors and ministry leaders quietly crash.

Your nervous system has been on high alert for weeks. Your body is tired. Your emotions have been on “pause” for the sake of everyone else.

As much as possible:

Give yourself a simple meal, not another meeting
Let yourself cry if you need to
Rest without feeling like you need to justify it

You are a person before you are a pastor.

God is not surprised by your limits. He created them.

5. Think Beyond Surviving This Year

One of the most important questions you can ask after Christmas is not, “How did it go” but, “How am I really doing”

If you finish December feeling:

Constantly exhausted
Numb toward people you used to feel compassion for
Detached from your own family
Unsure how long you can keep going at this pace

These are warning lights on the dashboard.

They are not reasons for shame. They are signals that you need more than a day off.

At Cedar Creek Ministries , we exist because too many pastors, church leaders, and missionaries only stop when they collapse. We have watched how different the story can be when leaders choose preventative rest instead of waiting for a breaking point.

Christmas can be a holy season. It can also be a mirror, showing you where your soul needs care.

A Final Encouragement

If Christmas feels heavy, you are not alone, and you are not failing.

The same Jesus you preach about is:

Near to the brokenhearted
Gentle with the weary
Patient with those who are at the end of themselves

He did not come so that you could carry more than human hearts were designed to hold.

He came so you, too, could be carried.

We are praying this Christmas that you would experience not just the joy you proclaim to others, but the comfort, rest, and nearness of Jesus in the places you are most tired.

Your Family Is Not A Distraction From Ministry

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 19:53:59 GMT

Remembering the people who live under your roof

Ministry can slowly train you to see your family as an interruption.

You would never say it out loud, but you feel the tension:

The phone rings at dinner
The text comes during your kid’s game
The crisis lands on your day off

You love your church.
You love your people.
You also love your spouse and your kids.

And it can feel like someone is always losing.

At Cedar Creek Ministries , we have watched this up close. When Pastors, church leaders, and missionaries finally slow down on sabbatical, their families begin to breathe again. Spouses stop bracing for the next interruption. Kids remember what it is like to have their parent’s full attention. Families rediscover each other.

Your family is not an obstacle to ministry.

They are part of your calling.

Ministry Is A Family Weight

When one person is called into ministry, the whole family feels it.

Spouses carry:

Emotional spillover from hard meetings
Uncertain schedules and last-minute changes
The pressure of being “on” at church events

Kids carry:

Weekends centered around church needs
Parents who are often tired or distracted
The unspoken sense that ministry always comes first

None of this makes you a bad pastor or a bad parent. It just describes reality.

The goal is not to feel guilty. The goal is to become more intentional.

What The Data Tells Us

In recent studies, nearly three-quarters of pastors and church leaders said they frequently or sometimes felt exhausted, and more than half reported struggling with isolation and loneliness in the past few months.

When they are drained, families feel it first.

On the positive side, the ones who regularly prioritize Sabbath and intentional time with their spouse and children report stronger relationships at home and a greater sense of support in ministry.

Healthy ministry and healthy family are deeply connected.

When Pastors, church leaders, and missionaries rest, families heal. When families are stronger, ministry becomes more sustainable.

Three Simple Shifts For This Month

You cannot fix everything in one December. But you can make real changes in how your family experiences this season.

1. Put Family Moments On The Calendar First

Before you lock in the final round of services and events, choose together:

one non-negotiable family night each week
one Christmas activity you will protect for your kids
one quiet evening just for you and your spouse

Put these in ink, not pencil.

If someone asks for that time, you can honestly say, “I am already committed.” Because you are, to the people God gave you first.

2. Create Clear “Off Duty” Hours

Ministry is never fully finished, but you can create boundaries.

Decide:

After this time in the evening, I will not answer non-emergency calls
On this one day, I will not schedule meetings
For this block on my day off, my phone stays in another room

Tell your elders or leadership team what those boundaries are. Most will respect you more, not less, for protecting your family.

Boundaries are not selfish. They are how you stay in ministry for the long haul.

3. Invite Your Family Into Joy, Not Just Sacrifice

Sometimes ministry kids only feel the cost:

Sitting through meetings
Being the last to leave the building
Sharing their parent with everyone

Look for ways this month to let them feel the joy:

Involve them in one part of serving, they might actually enjoy
Tell them specific stories (age-appropriate) of how God is working
Thank them out loud for the ways they support you

And with your spouse, be intentional with gratitude:

“You carry a lot so I can do what I do. I see it. I am grateful.”

Simple words like that can start real healing.

What Your Family Needs From You This December

Your family does not need you to be a perfect leader. They need you to be present.

They need:

your eyes, not just your title
your laughter, not just your leftovers
your honest apologies when you miss it
your willingness to ask for help when the load is too heavy

It is not weakness to admit that you cannot be everywhere for everyone.

It is obedience to remember that the people under your roof are part of your first ministry.

How Cedar Creek Ministries Can Help

We exist because we have watched too many families hit a breaking point they did not have to reach.

Cedar Creek Ministries creates space where:

Pastors/church leaders and spouses can rest without expectations
families can reconnect without schedules pulling them apart
leaders can remember they are loved as children of God, not just as workers for God

If December has shown you how thin your family feels, you are not failing. You are seeing clearly.

And seeing clearly is often the first step toward real change.

Leading Through Advent Without Burning Out

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 13:39:09 GMT

Simple rhythms of rest in the busiest month of the year

For most ministry leaders, December is not a “cozy” month.

It is extra services
extra planning
extra late nights
and extra emotions in every room.

You carry the weight of Advent hope while trying to get slides done, make sure there are enough volunteers for Christmas Eve, and care for people who are quietly falling apart as the holidays get closer.

If December feels more like a sprint than a season of worship, you are not alone.

Research in recent years has shown what many pastors and church leaders already feel in their bones. In 2022, about 42 percent of them said they had seriously considered quitting full-time ministry in the past year, mostly due to stress, exhaustion, and isolation. Even though the numbers have improved a bit since then, about one-third of pastors and church leaders still say they have thought seriously about leaving in the past year.

You are not imagining the weight. It is real.

So how do you walk through Advent without burning out by Christmas Eve?

Let’s keep it simple and realistic.

1. Name Your Real Capacity For December

You are one person with a real body, a real nervous system, and real limits.

Before you finalize the calendar, ask:

How many extra events can I actually attend and still be a kind human at home
How many evenings out in a week is sustainable for my spouse and me
What absolutely has to be done by me, and what could be done by someone else

This is not selfish. It is stewardship.

When pastors and church leaders ignore limits, everyone eventually feels it: their family, staff team, volunteers, and congregation.

At Cedar Creek Ministries , we see the long-term impact. Many of the leaders who come for sabbatical are not just tired from one hard month. They are worn down from years of saying yes to everything and no to almost nothing that restores them.

You are allowed to build your December around what you can realistically carry, not what people wish you could.

2. Put Your Own Sabbath On The Calendar First

Advent is about waiting and worship, but ministry can turn it into constant motion.

Before you add one more event or outreach, choose:

one weekly day that is not available for meetings
one evening each week that is protected for family or quiet
one pocket of time each week that is just for you and Jesus

This is not extra credit. It is how you stay human.

Pastors, church leaders, and missionaries who practice weekly rest tend to experience better emotional and spiritual health than those who do not. In one long-term study, the ones who prioritized Sabbath with their families every week were more likely to report strong relationships at home and higher ministry satisfaction.

You are not weak for needing rest. You are wise for planning it.

3. Lower The Pressure, Raise The Presence

Every December, leaders feel the pull to make services bigger, production higher, and moments “special.”

But the people who walk into your building this month are not coming for perfection. They are coming for presence.

Presence of God
Presence of a shepherd who really sees them
Presence of a community that feels safe enough to breathe

What if you measured this Advent season by questions like:

Did people hear the Gospel clearly
Did someone who was grieving feel seen
Did our team experience joy serving together

Numbers matter. Preparation matters. Excellence matters.

But presence changes people more than production ever will.

4. Ask For Help Before You Hit A Wall

You are not meant to carry December alone.

The same studies that show high burnout also show something else. Pastors and church leaders who feel well supported by close friends, mentors, or counselors are far more likely to stay in ministry and describe themselves as hopeful and resilient, even in hard seasons.

This month:

Let one safe person know how you are actually doing
Share the real load with your elders or board
Invite volunteers into ownership instead of trying to protect them from everything

Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is to say, “I need help,” before everything hurts.

5. Plan A Recovery Window, Not Just Events

Many Pastors, church leaders, and missionaries plan every detail of Christmas Eve and almost nothing about the week after.

If you can, choose:

one Sunday in late December or early January, with a simpler service
one stretch of days where you step back from meetings, email, and new initiatives
one small way your church can give you and your family time to breathe

This is not indulgence. It is prevention.

At Cedar Creek Ministries , we exist because we have seen what happens when leaders rest before they crash. When pastors or church leaders have space to be quiet, sleep, laugh with their families, and hear God again without pressure, they return different. Their families soften. Their vision clears. Their churches feel the difference.

A Simple Prayer For Advent

If you do not have energy for much else, here is a prayer you can keep coming back to in December:

“Lord, I am tired, but I am Yours.
Help me lead with Your strength,
not my hurry.

Help me see people the way You see them.
Guard my family, guard my heart,
and let this Advent be about You,
not my performance.”

You are not behind if you feel weary.

You are not failing if December feels heavy.

You are a human shepherd, loved by the Chief Shepherd. He is not asking you to do everything. He is inviting you to walk with Him through one day at a time.

And if your soul exhaled even a little as you read this, it may be time to plan real rest for the year ahead. That is why Cedar Creek Ministries exists: to help you personally rest, restore family relationships, and revive ministry vision, so you can keep walking worthy of the calling you have received.

We are grateful for you. Truly.

Thankful for the One Who Called Us

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 13:55:40 GMT

Finding Rest in the Caller When Ministry Is Heavy

There’s a moment that happens in nearly every ministry leader’s life, often quietly, without announcement. It’s the moment when the calling you love begins to feel heavier than it used to. Not wrong. Not broken. Just heavier.

Ministry is beautiful.
Ministry is holy.
Ministry is deeply rewarding.

And ministry is weighty.

The Apostle Paul said it simply:

“And, apart from other things, there is the daily pressure on me of my anxiety for all the churches.”
— 2 Corinthians 11:28

There is a pressure inherent in shepherding souls.
Not because something is wrong, but because love always comes with weight.

But sometimes in the daily weight of ministry, sermon prep, counseling sessions, leadership tension, spiritual warfare, family needs, unexpected crises, volunteer shortages, and the unspoken emotional strain, we forget why we started.

Or more specifically:

We forget Who called us.

This week, as Thanksgiving nears, I want to speak to that part of you that remembers even if faintly the day God called your name.

The day you said yes.
The day your heart caught fire.
The day you knew, deep in your bones, “I was made for this.”

Let’s go back there together.

When Calling Felt Like Joy

Most of us didn’t stumble into ministry accidentally.

Some of us were wrecked by grace and couldn’t imagine keeping quiet about it.

Some of us saw the beauty of a life poured out and said, “Lord, use me.”

Some of us heard Him whisper, “Feed my sheep,” and we said yes, not fully knowing what it would require.

And at the beginning, there was joy.

There was clarity.
There was expectancy.
There was simplicity.

We weren’t thinking about:

attendance trends
budgets and building repairs
church politics
funerals and conflict mediation
spiritual exhaustion
or feeling like we had to hold everything together

We were just in love .

With Jesus.
With His Word.
With His people.
With the Gospel.

Our calling began in gratitude .

Not duty.

Not pressure.

Not identity.

But gratitude.

Gratitude for who Christ is.
Gratitude that He saved us.
Gratitude that He lets us be part of His work at all.

So let’s return to gratitude specifically, gratitude for the Caller Himself.

Thankfulness Begins With Remembering

The psalmist says:

“Restore to me the joy of your salvation…”
— Psalm 51:12

Which means joy once present can grow dim .
And joy can be restored .

And the path to restoration almost always begins in remembering.

So pause, just for a moment, and reflect:

When did you first sense God calling you into ministry?

A camp prayer night
A conversation with a mentor
A sermon that pierced the heart
A season of brokenness, God used to rebuild
A burden for people you couldn’t explain

You don’t have to try to feel that feeling again.
Just remember the moment.

And here’s the key:

The One who called you then is the One who sustains you now.

Your calling didn’t begin with you.
So it doesn’t depend on you to keep it alive.

It began in Him.
It rests in Him.
And it will be sustained by Him.

When Calling Gets Heavy

There are seasons where ministry feels like carrying a backpack filled with stones:

every conflict weighs something
every disappointment piles on
every unmet expectation adds pressure
every private battle grows quieter
every unseen act of obedience asks more of the heart

In those seasons, we may not feel “thankful,” and that’s okay.

Gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring burden.
Gratitude just means we look past the burden to the One who carries it with us.

Jesus said:

“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
— Matthew 11:28

This wasn’t a verse for new believers.
This was a verse for disciples.

For followers.
For ministry leaders.
For those who had already said yes.

Jesus wasn’t offering escape from ministry.
He was offering companionship in ministry.

The rest He gives isn’t the rest of stepping away, it’s the rest of being held while you stay faithful.

Three Practices That Restore Gratitude in Ministry

1. Remember the One Who Called You

Instead of asking:

“How am I doing?”
“Are people happy?”
“Is the ministry growing?”
“Am I enough for all of this?”

Ask instead:

Who called me?
Who sustains me?
Who defines success?
Who holds this church together?

When the Caller is central, the calling becomes lighter.

2. Surrender the Outcomes

You are responsible for obedience.
God is responsible for fruit.

We plant.
We water.
He grows.

If you have been faithful, rest.

Even if:

the numbers are small,
the response is quiet,
or the results are unseen.

Faithfulness is success in the Kingdom.

3. Let Someone Carry the Weight With You

Ministry was never meant to be done alone.

Even Jesus sent disciples out two by two.

Even Paul needed Timothy.

Timothy needed Barnabas.
Barnabas needed the church.

The lie of ministry is:

“I should be strong enough to carry this alone.”

The truth of Scripture is:

“Carry one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
— Galatians 6:2

If you are weary, say it.
Not to everyone.
But to someone.

Your calling is not fragile.
And admitting heaviness is not failure.
It is faithfulness.

Gratitude Doesn’t Erase Hardship, It Repositions It

Being thankful for the One who called us doesn’t mean ministry stops being heavy.

It means we stop trying to carry it without Him.

It means:

we return to first love,
we are held rather than stretched thin,
we remember this work is holy,
and we live it as worship rather than pressure.

You are called.
Not by accident.
Not by mistake.
Not because God couldn’t find someone “more equipped.”

You were called because He knows you.
He loves you.
And He delights to work through you.

Your calling is not the weight.
The absence of rest is.

Return to the Caller.
Let Him carry you again.

A Prayer for You

Lord, thank You for calling us into Your work.
When ministry feels heavy, remind us that You are the One who sustains us.
Restore to us the joy of our salvation and the joy of serving You.

Teach us to rest in Your strength rather than our own.
Hold our hearts close.
Renew our minds.
Refresh our spirits.
And steady our steps as we continue to follow You.
Amen.

A Simple Encouragement

If you are tired, you are not failing.
You are simply human.

And humans need rest.
Jesus Himself needed rest.

If you feel the weight, you are not alone.
He is with you.
He called you.
He will carry you.

And we are here to support you in that journey.

Thankful for the People You Serve (Even When Ministry Is Messy)

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:46:49 GMT

Ministry is complicated because love is costly.

You love your people.

Let’s just start there.

You wouldn’t be pastoring, shepherding, discipling, preaching, praying, counseling, leading, or answering late-night “Do you have a minute?” texts even if you didn’t.

But love does not cancel out humanity.

And churches are full of it.

People are quirky.
People are emotional.
People are inconsistent.
People are growing, and the growth is rarely symmetrical or convenient.

And shepherding real humans (not the beautifully edited versions we imagine when planning sermons) takes grace, patience, humor, and more coffee than one body should safely consume.

But this week, I want to help you see your people again the way Jesus sees them.

Not as:

Responsibilities
Energy-drains
Problems-to-solve
Schedules-to-manage
Needs-to-meet
Or chaos-with-names

But as:

Souls
Image-bearers
Walking testimonies
People God loves just as deeply as He loves you

Even the dramatic ones.
Especially the dramatic ones.

Let’s Start in the Real World

It’s Sunday.

You step into the lobby, and you know within 14 seconds how the morning is going to go based on:

Who’s standing where
The energy in the hallway
The tone of the greetings
The look on your worship leader’s face

Someone is emotional.
Someone is offended.
Someone didn’t print what needed to be printed.
Someone has feedback for you and they haven’t even heard the sermon yet.

Meanwhile, three people are genuinely excited to be there, two are quietly suffering, a handful are serving faithfully without any spotlight, and one is wearing a shirt with wolves howling at the moon for reasons unknown to all of us.

This is your flock.
Your people.
Your assignment.
Your joy.
And yes, sometimes your sanctification.

But Here’s the Kind Truth:

People aren’t hard because they mean to be.
People are hard because they’re human.

And ministry isn’t complicated because people are dramatic.

Ministry is complicated because love is costly.

This is the real pastoral tension:

You love them deeply.
They stretch you deeply.
Some weeks you are overflowing with compassion.
Some weeks you are praying, “Lord, please take the wheel. Immediately.”

Both can be true.
At the same time.
And God is not disappointed in you for feeling the weight.

Seeing Them Again Through Gratitude

Gratitude doesn’t mean pretending everyone is easy to love.

Gratitude simply means remembering what God is doing in them.

Even the ones who push your patience:

They are growing, just not always in the areas that would be most convenient.

Even the ones who don’t show up consistently:

They are here.
That means something.
It means God is working.

Even the ones who hurt you with their words:

Most of the time, pain leaks out of people who haven’t learned what to do with their wounds yet.

They’re not your enemy.
They’re your healing assignment and sometimes your mirror.

Even the ones who feel like an interruption:

Sometimes interruptions are the ministry.

Jesus did most of His miracles while on His way somewhere else.

A Simple, Honest Reframe for This Week

When frustration rises, quietly try this prayer:

“Lord, help me see who they are becoming, not just who they are today.”

Because:

People are in process.
Sanctification is slow.
Transformation is often invisible while it is happening.

Your gentleness may be part of the miracle.

Let’s Talk About the Ones Who Are Easy to Miss

There are always people in your church who:

Never cause trouble
Never need attention
Never need recognition
Never ask for anything
Never complain
Never quit

And they’re so steady…
that they get overlooked.

These people are the bones of your ministry.

Quiet presence is one of the holiest forms of service the Church has.

This week:

See them.
Name what they carry.
Thank God for them.

Even a simple text:

“Hey, I just want you to know I’m grateful for you.”
will do more than you think.

Steady people don’t need applause but they deeply feel encouragement.

And Then There Are the Ones Who Stretch You

Let’s honor this truth:

Some people are hard to love.
Some seasons are heavy.
Some personalities are… character-building.

But here’s the gospel reality:

The hardest people to love often need the most love.

Not more instruction.
Not more analysis.
Not more distance.

Just presence.
Soft strength.
Patient compassion.

This is not weakness.
This is spiritual maturity.

A Pastoral Heart Check-In

Ask yourself gently:

When did I last laugh with my people?
When did I last feel joy in being among them?
When did I last choose compassion instead of efficiency?
Where have I stopped seeing the image of God because I’ve been exhausted?

These questions aren’t for guilt.
They’re for reconnection.

Encouragement

Your people are not perfect.
They’re not supposed to be.

They are being shaped.
Formed.
Refined.
Grown.

And you’re part of that story.

But you’re not the author.
You’re not the potter.
You’re not the source.

You are a shepherd learning to love the flock
while the Good Shepherd is loving you.

Let gratitude soften your eyes again.
Let compassion return where fatigue settled in.
Let laughter come back into the room.
Let joy slip in through the cracks.

These people are a gift
not because they are easy,
but because they’re yours.

And we are thankful for you for how you love them even when it costs something.

Seeing the Good Again (Staying Thankful When Ministry is Heavy)

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 15:50:19 GMT

This week is about re-seeing…noticing the good again where fatigue has blurred it.

I want to start here… because it matters:

You carry things that most people will never know about.

You carry the weight of other people’s crises while managing your own.
You carry the expectations, both spoken and unspoken, of what a “good leader” should be.
You carry conversations you can’t repeat.
You carry the spiritual atmosphere of a room even when your own heart feels tired.

So if staying thankful sometimes feels like work, it’s not because you don’t love God, your church, or your calling.

It’s because ministry requires emotional labor that doesn’t get talked about enough.

This week is not about “just be grateful” or “find the positive spin.”
You don’t need slogans.

This week is about re-seeing …
noticing the good again
where fatigue has blurred it.

Let’s walk through some real places where gratitude gets complicated.

Not avoided.
Not suppressed.
Not shamed.

Just honestly named , so we can breathe again.

1. When Someone Leaves

I want to tell the truth gently here.

When someone leaves your church, your staff team, your leadership circle, your volunteer team, it hurts. Even when it’s polite. Even when it’s spiritual. Even when it's clearly God-led.

There’s a kind of loss in ministry that doesn’t get funerals, goodbyes, or casseroles.

It’s the loss of shared work.

You prayed with them.
You dreamed alongside them.
You planned ministry next steps with them.
You trusted them.
You counted on them.

And even if you understand they’re following God, or moving for family, or stepping into something new, some part of you still feels their absence like a seat in a room that doesn’t get filled the same way again.

You see them walk out that final Sunday.
You stand at the door, shaking hands, smiling kindly, wishing them well.

And then…
you lock up the building, turn off the lights, sit in your car, and feel the ache of it.

Not anger.
Just… the quiet grief of something ending.

Not many people talk about that.
But every leader knows it.

Where Gratitude Lives Here

Gratitude doesn’t mean pretending it didn’t hurt.
Gratitude just means remembering the gift that the season was .

Reflection:

What did you learn from them?
What did they carry that strengthened the body while they were there?
What part of your ministry is better because they were once part of it?

Thankfulness isn’t denial.
Thankfulness is remembering the good even when the season changes.

Both staying and going can be obedience.
Both can honor God.
Both matter.

2. When People Don’t Serve the Way You Hoped

This is where discouragement starts to whisper:

“Why don’t people care like I do?”
“Why is this so hard to keep moving?”
“Why am I always the one holding everything together?”

You wouldn’t say those thoughts aloud.
But they show up at night.
They show up after long Sundays.
They show up when one more ministry need lands on your desk.

It’s Saturday night.
You’re reviewing your list and realize you’re short a nursery volunteer.
The worship team isn’t fully confirmed.
Someone texted you earlier saying they needed to step out of a role “for a while.”

You just close your eyes and exhale because it’s a familiar sensation now.

The gap.
The ask.
The weight.

And it’s so easy in this moment to feel alone.

But here’s the quiet truth most leaders forget:

The people serving beside you are not paid staff.
They are not full-time ministry workers.
They are not free of personal responsibilities.

They are people with:

Sick kids
Strained marriages
Work deadlines
Chronic fatigue
Parents in declining health
Financial pressure
Private battles you may never know about

They aren’t withholding effort.

They’re living full lives, too .

Where Gratitude Lives In This Place

Gratitude does not require lowering standards.
But it does require seeing the person behind the role.

Not:
“What did they not show up for?”

But:
“What did it cost them to show up at all?”

That shift alone can restore tenderness in your heart.

Gratitude helps you love the people you lead before you lead the people you need.

3. Leaders Often Don’t Realize How Much They Ask

This is not a criticism, it’s compassion.

Because what you are carrying is so much , you don’t always see the invisible weight others are carrying.

You aren’t demanding.
You aren’t inconsiderate.
You are simply holding so much in your hands that the needs in front of you feel massive and urgent because often, they are .

But the truth is:

Sometimes a volunteer says "yes" because they love you.
Not because they have time.
Not because they aren’t tired.
Not because they felt equipped.

They say "yes" because they believe in the mission, and they didn’t want to disappoint you.

They are sitting in their car after church, hands on the steering wheel.
They are thinking about the thing you asked them to do.
Their week is already full.
They’re tired.
They aren’t sure they have it in them.

But they answer your text anyway:

“Sure, I can help.”

Not out of guilt.
Not out of obligation.
But out of love.

Where Gratitude Lives Here

When someone serves, whether with energy or exhaustion, it is an offering .

We must learn to thank God for the offering , not the output .

Because offering is heart.
Offering is sacrifice.
Offering is worship.

And God honors the heart behind it.

4. How to Stay Thankful (Real Practices, Not More Tasks)

Let’s make this simple.
Not a workbook.
Not a new discipline to maintain.
Not a “be grateful” performance.

Just practices of attention that help your heart breathe again.

1. The 10-Second Pause

When disappointment rises, pause and ask:

“What good is here that I’m not seeing yet?”

Don’t force an answer.
Just make space for God to show you.

2. One Name a Week

Choose one person serving, in any capacity, and simply tell them:

“I noticed.”
“I’m glad you’re here.”
“Thank you.”

Not a speech.
Just presence.

3. Remember What You Wanted

Think back to when you first started leading.
What did you pray for then?

It’s easy to forget how many of those prayers are already answered.

4. Rest Your Eyes

Sometimes the heart is tired because the eyes are tired.

Go outside.
Take 10 minutes alone.
Look at nothing you’re responsible for.

Let your mind unclench.

Thankfulness begins where pressure loosens.

Encouragement

I’m not inside your ministry.
I don’t see everything.
But I do see you .

You are not ungrateful.
You are not unreachable.
You are not failing.

You are tired.
And tired hearts struggle to see the good.

But the good is still there.
God is still building.
Faithfulness is still happening.
People are still being shaped.
Seeds are still growing.

You do not lead alone.

This month, may God restore your ability to notice the good.

Not by forcing gratitude, but by opening your eyes to grace that is already present.

And we are grateful for you.
Truly.

Thankful for Pastors

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 16:45:47 GMT

From someone who sees you, even if you don’t always feel seen.

Pastor Appreciation Month is over.
The cards were kind.
The meals were thoughtful.
The words were genuine.

But then Monday came.
And the emails were still waiting.
The sermon still needed to be written.
The hospital call still came in.
The weight of leadership didn’t take the day off.

I’m not on your staff. I’m not in the elders’ meetings or carrying the spreadsheet of budgets and attendance. But I see you. And I see how heavy “normal” can feel after October fades.

So before we move too quickly into Thanksgiving season, I just want to pause here and say:

Thank you for staying.

Thank you for showing up when no one is clapping.
Thank you for holding space for people’s pain when your own heart is tired.
Thank you for carrying the vision when resources are thin.
Thank you for continuing to shepherd even when the sheep bite.

Also, thank you to those who followed God somewhere new.

Leaving doesn’t make you disloyal; sometimes it makes you obedient.
God moves His people like pieces in a story far bigger than any one church.
Faithfulness looks like staying when God says stay and going when God says go.

Both are obedience.
Both are beautiful.

Where we forget gratitude, we grow blind to grace.

Church leaders feel misunderstood.
Church members feel misunderstood.
And both sides are often right.

But gratitude softens what misunderstanding hardens.

So here’s a gentle practice for this week:

“Lord, help me see the good.”

No list. No performance.
Just a prayer to open your eyes again.

Look for it in the ordinary:

The volunteer who keeps showing up.
The elder who checks on your spouse.
The teen who runs slides faithfully.
The older saint who prays over you quietly.

The good is still there.
Sometimes we just need God to help us see it again.

A word of truth before you start another week

You’re not unseen.
You’re not forgotten.
You’re not replaceable.

Your steady presence matters more than you know.
Even after the thank-you cards are tucked away and Monday’s to-do list is staring back at you,

your faithfulness is still seen by the One who called you.

Thank you for staying.
Thank you for leading.
Thank you for loving Christ’s bride, even when it’s hard.

We’re grateful for you.

Pastor Appreciation Is More Than a Month: How to Support Pastors All Year

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 14:46:21 GMT

Pastors need encouragement, and it means a lot to know their work is seen and valued.

Every October, churches across the country pause to celebrate Pastor Appreciation Month . Cards are signed, meals are delivered, and gifts are given. And all of those things are good, wonderful, in fact. Pastors need encouragement, and it means a lot to know their work is seen and valued.

But here’s the truth: pastor appreciation can’t end on October 31.

The burdens pastors carry don’t vanish in November. Their families don’t stop sacrificing. Their spiritual battles don’t take a holiday. Which means our calling as the Church is to carry appreciation, prayer, and support into every month of the year.

Over the last several weeks, we’ve walked through this in our series here at Cedar Creek Ministries . Let’s wrap it all up by reviewing what we’ve learned, and then talk about how you can take the next step right now.

Post 1: Pastors Do More Than Preach on Sundays

We began with a reality check: pastors don’t just work one day a week.

Behind every Sunday sermon is a week full of counseling sessions, hospital visits, late-night phone calls, administrative meetings, and spiritual burdens that few ever see.

In that post, we highlighted practical ways to appreciate your pastor: from simple gestures like thank-you notes and coffee runs, to bigger investments like sponsoring a retreat. And we introduced one of the most important resources we offer: the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal , a tool to help you cover your pastor in daily prayer.

Because before anything else, pastors need prayer.

Post 2: Families Need Rest Too

Next, we talked about pastors’ families. Ministry isn’t just a calling for one person, it impacts the whole household.

We shared stories from our cabins at Cedar Creek Ministries :

The pastor’s wife who said, “This is the most time I’ve seen my husband in years.”
The young couple with children who admitted, “We haven’t made intentional alone time since our first child was born five years ago.”
The pastor who said, “It just feels so nice not to feel like I don’t have to be ‘on’ here.”

These testimonies remind us that sabbaticals and retreats aren’t luxuries, they’re lifelines. They give families the chance to rest, reconnect, and restore what matters most.

Post 3: Be the Voice They Won’t Be

In Blog 3, we got honest about a hard reality: pastors often won’t say what they need.

They live in a self-deprecating, handle-it culture. Many won’t admit when they’re exhausted. They won’t share encouraging posts online. They won’t ask for prayer in public.

That’s why it’s up to us, the Church, to be their voice. To advocate for their rest, to share encouragement, and to lift them up in prayer when they’re too tired to say it themselves.

And once again, we pointed to the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal as a practical tool. Because while pastors may never ask for it, your prayers make a difference they can feel.

Post 4: Serving with Your Gifts

Finally, in Blog 4 we talked about the second half of the equation: serving.

Praying is the first step, but pastors also need people to step in and use their gifts. Churches are healthiest when pastors aren’t doing everything themselves.

That’s where your gifts come in: hospitality, teaching, encouragement, administration, mercy, giving, and more. Every believer has a role to play.

We also encouraged believers to consider biblical counseling training, through programs like IBCD (which we use) or ACBC (the widely recognized certification). Counseling is discipleship, and when laypeople are equipped to counsel biblically, pastors don’t carry that entire burden alone.

The Big Picture: Rest, Restore, Revive

All of these posts tie back to what Cedar Creek Ministries is all about: Rest, Restore, Revive.

Rest : Sabbaticals, retreats, and preventative rhythms that keep pastors and families healthy.
Restore : Biblical counseling for leaders and their households, plus equipping churches to counsel one another.
Revive : Leadership development that renews vision and mission for the long haul.

When pastors and families are supported in these ways, the church doesn’t just survive, it thrives.

How You Can Carry Pastor Appreciation Beyond October

So, how do we make sure appreciation lasts beyond a single month? Here’s a simple path forward:

1. Pray Daily

Prayer is the greatest gift. Use the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal to guide your prayers with Scripture and consistency. And remember: anytime is a good time to start praying for your pastor.

2. Serve Faithfully

Find your gifting and use it. Step in where your pastor needs help, don’t assume someone else will. When you serve, you lighten their load and strengthen the whole body.

3. Encourage Often

Write notes. Send texts. Drop off meals. Show up with small gestures that remind your pastor they’re seen and valued, not just in October, but in February, May, and August too.

4. Advocate Boldly

Be the voice your pastor won’t be. Remind your church why rest, sabbaticals, and prayer matter. Speak up about the need for biblical counseling training. Share encouragement online, even if your pastor won’t.

5. Support Ministries That Care for Pastors

Partner with Cedar Creek Ministries . Give, share, or invite others to join. Every dollar, every prayer, every conversation helps us create spaces where pastors and families can rest, restore, and revive.

Final Word: Pastor Appreciation Is Every Day

Here’s what we want you to take away from this series: Pastor Appreciation doesn’t end in October.

They need prayer in January.
They need encouragement in March.
They need family time in July.
They need sabbaticals in September.

So don’t let the calendar dictate your care. Make it a rhythm. Make it a culture. Make it part of who you are as a follower of Christ.

And if you’re wondering where to start, the answer is simple: pray. Pick up a Prayer Pledge Drive Journal today. Anytime is the right time. And as you pray, let God lead you into ways to serve, encourage, and advocate for the shepherds He has entrusted to us.

Because when pastors thrive, churches flourish. And when the Church flourishes, the Kingdom advances.

Beyond Prayer: Serving with Your Gifts to Support Pastors and Their Families

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 13:53:31 GMT

If we truly want to honor our pastors, we need to do more than watch them serve, we need to step in, serve alongside them, and use our unique gifts to help carry the weight.

In our last post, we said the most powerful way you can appreciate and support your pastor is simple: pray for them. Really pray. Intentionally pray.

And we stand by that. Prayer is the foundation, the first line of defense, and the greatest gift you can give. That’s why we created the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal , to help people not just say they’ll pray, but actually follow through with intentional, daily intercession.

But prayer, as essential as it is, isn’t the only way to care for your pastor. Scripture tells us that every believer has been given spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12), and those gifts are meant to build up the body of Christ. That includes lightening the load on the shepherds who so often carry it all themselves.

If we truly want to honor our pastors, we need to do more than watch them serve, we need to step in, serve alongside them, and use our unique gifts to help carry the weight.

The Problem: Pastors Doing Everything

Let’s be honest: in too many churches, pastors do far too much. They:

Preach every week.
Visit hospitals.
Counsel marriages.
Plan events.
Organize volunteers.
Manage budgets.
Handle facility needs.
Lead small groups.
Provide personal discipleship.

It’s not that pastors are unwilling, they’re often wired to serve sacrificially. But when one person (or even a small handful of leaders) shoulders all the work of the church, burnout isn’t just likely, it’s inevitable.

This isn’t how God designed the church to function. In Ephesians 4:11–12, Paul says pastors and teachers are given “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” In other words, the pastor’s job isn’t to do everything. Their role is to equip others to do the work alongside them.

Why Serving Matters

When you serve, you’re not just lightening the pastor’s schedule, you’re strengthening the entire church. Here’s why:

Shared Load = Greater Health : Many hands make light work. When church members serve, pastors can focus on their core calling instead of drowning in tasks.
Discipleship Through Service : Serving is discipleship in action. It grows your faith while blessing others.
Protecting Pastors’ Families : Every meeting you lead, every task you take on, is one less evening your pastor has to miss dinner with their family.
Obedience to Scripture : The New Testament is full of commands to serve one another, use our gifts, and bear each other’s burdens.

Serving is not optional. It’s obedience. And when we obey, we bless both the church and its leaders.

Discovering Your Giftings

Many people don’t serve because they don’t know where to start. But here’s the truth: you already have gifts. Scripture promises it.

Some of us are gifted in hospitality. Others in teaching. Others in encouragement, administration, giving, leadership, or mercy. When we use those gifts intentionally, pastors are freed to focus on shepherding rather than scrambling.

Here are some practical ways gifts can meet real needs:

Hospitality : Hosting small groups or meals for newcomers.
Encouragement : Writing notes or sending texts to uplift leaders.
Administration : Handling schedules, events, or budgets.
Teaching : Leading Bible studies or children’s ministry.
Mercy : Visiting the sick or helping those in need.
Counseling/Discipleship : Walking with people through struggles so the pastor isn’t the only counselor.

The question isn’t if you have a gift, it’s where and how you will use it.

The Role of Biblical Counseling Training

One of the biggest weights pastors carry is counseling. Marriage struggles. Addiction. Depression. Parenting. Crisis after crisis. And too often, they’re the only ones providing care.

But here’s the good news: laypeople can be trained to provide faithful, biblical counseling.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we believe strongly in equipping the church body to counsel one another with Scripture. That’s why we point people to training resources like:

IBCD (Institute for Biblical Counseling and Discipleship) : Practical, accessible training for everyday believers. We use IBCD because it’s simple, biblical, and designed to equip laypeople.
ACBC (Association of Certified Biblical Counselors) : The gold standard of certification for those who want to go deeper. It’s rigorous, widely respected, and provides in-depth theological and practical training.

Both IBCD and ACBC emphasize this truth: counseling is discipleship. Every believer can grow in helping others apply the Word of God to life’s struggles. And when more church members are equipped to counsel, pastors aren’t carrying the entire counseling load alone.

Prayer + Service: A Double Gift

When we combine prayer and service, the results are powerful. Prayer covers our pastors in spiritual strength. Service covers them in practical support. Together, they create a culture where pastors are encouraged, families are protected, and the church thrives.

Here’s how you can put it into practice:

Pray intentionally : Use the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal . Start today, anytime is a good time to begin praying daily for your pastor.
Serve faithfully : Ask your pastor where you can step in. Don’t wait for a sign-up sheet, volunteer your gifts.
Equip yourself : Consider biblical counseling training through IBCD or ACBC . Even one or two trained lay counselors can make a world of difference.
Encourage others to join : Share the vision. Tell your church that serving is everyone’s responsibility.

Why Cedar Creek Ministries Champions Both

At Cedar Creek Ministries, our mission is simple: Rest, Restore, Revive.

Rest : By giving pastors space for sabbaticals and preventative rest.
Restore : By offering counseling for leaders and encouraging lay counseling training for churches.
Revive : By equipping leaders and churches to thrive in Christ’s mission.

But rest doesn’t happen if pastors are doing everything themselves. That’s why we keep pointing the church back to prayer and service, because when we pray and step in, pastors can lead from strength instead of survival.

How You Can Start Today

Here’s your challenge:

Pick up a Prayer Pledge Drive Journal . Don’t wait for Pastor Appreciation Month. Anytime is a good time to begin praying intentionally.
Ask, “Where can I serve?” Don’t assume someone else will do it. Step up and use your giftings.
Consider training. Explore IBCD’s resources or ACBC certification. Imagine the impact if your church had 5–10 trained biblical counselors walking alongside others.
Encourage others. Share this vision with your small group, Bible study, or friends. Help build a culture of shared ministry.

Final Word: Don’t Let Them Carry It Alone

Prayer is the first step. It always will be. But prayer isn’t the end of the story. Pastors need churches that pray and serve. They need people who will cover them in prayer and use their God-given gifts to shoulder the work of ministry.

So don’t let your pastor carry it all alone. Pray with intention. Serve with purpose. Get trained to counsel and disciple. And together, let’s build churches where pastors and families can rest, restore, and revive.

Because when pastors are free to focus on shepherding, and the church is equipped to serve one another, the whole body thrives, and Christ is glorified.

The Greatest Gift: Why Prayer Is the Most Powerful Way to Appreciate Your Pastor

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 16:13:22 GMT

Pastors often carry crushing burdens silently because they feel like they can’t show weakness.

When people ask us what the most powerful way to appreciate a pastor is, our answer is simple: pray for them.

But here’s the challenge: most pastors will never ask for that.

In fact, we live in a ministry culture that is almost allergic to vulnerability. Pastors are often the first to downplay their own needs, to brush off compliments, to say “we’re fine” when they’re not. They live in what we call a self-deprecating, handle-it culture.

We’ve had pastors tell us, “I love the content you share on social. It encourages me. But I’ll never share it.” And when we ask why, they shrug and admit, “We don’t want to draw attention to ourselves. People won’t understand.”

That’s the reality. Pastors often carry crushing burdens silently because they feel like they can’t show weakness. And that’s why it’s so critical for us, the Church, the people of God, to step in as their voice. To pray, to share encouragement, and to advocate when they can’t or won’t do it for themselves.

The Culture of Silent Struggle

If you’ve ever been close to a pastor, you know how common it is for them to downplay the weight they carry.

They minimize their exhaustion because “others have it worse.”
They avoid asking for help because “it might burden the church.”
They refuse to vent because “I don’t want to sound ungrateful.”

It’s a culture of silent struggle. Pastors are trained (or pressured) to be “on” all the time, spiritual guides, counselors, leaders, encouragers. And yet that very culture leaves them isolated.

Which means someone else has to say the words they won’t:

“Our pastors are tired.”
“Our leaders need prayer.”
“Our shepherds are human too.”

That someone is us.

Why Prayer Matters More Than We Realize

Encouragement is vital. Practical gifts are wonderful. But prayer? Prayer is eternal.

When you pray for your pastor, you are lifting them before the throne of God. You are interceding for their soul, their family, their mind, their marriage. You are asking God to provide what no human encouragement ever could.

Think about this: if your pastor is preaching the gospel, counseling the broken, discipling new believers, and equipping saints for the work of ministry (Ephesians 4:12), then they are in the crosshairs of spiritual warfare every single day.

Without prayer, they are vulnerable. With prayer, they are strengthened.

What Pastors Will Never Tell You

Here are some things pastors might never tell their congregations:

“I’m lonely.”
“I’m exhausted but don’t know how to stop.”
“I feel like I can’t fail without letting everyone down.”
“My marriage and kids sometimes feel neglected.”

And yet, pastors won’t stand up on a Sunday morning and announce those needs. That’s why your prayers, and your willingness to be their advocate, matter so much.

How We Can Be the Voice They Don’t Have

If pastors won’t say it, we can.

We can be the ones to:

Speak honestly about the need for pastoral rest.
Remind the church that leaders are human too.
Share encouragement online and in person, even when pastors won’t.
Build a culture where praying for pastors is as normal as praying for missionaries.

At Cedar Creek Ministries , that’s part of why we keep creating content, even when it doesn’t “go viral.” Because even if pastors won’t share it, they tell us they read it. It helps them keep going. And if the only thing we can do is put truth and encouragement into their quiet spaces, we’ll keep doing it.

The Prayer Pledge Drive Journal: A Practical Way to Begin

We know that praying consistently can feel overwhelming. That’s why we created the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal .

It’s a simple, guided tool that helps you commit to praying for your pastor every day. Inside, you’ll find:

Daily prompts with Scriptures and prayer topics (endurance, wisdom, joy, family, purity).
Reflection pages to record what God puts on your heart.
Accountability through a pledge structure that keeps you faithful.

When a church takes the Prayer Pledge, something amazing happens: pastors feel carried, even if they never ask for it. They may never say “thank you,” they may never post about it, but they notice. They feel it.

And here’s the thing: anytime is a good time to pick up a Prayer Pledge Drive Journal and start. You don’t have to wait for Pastor Appreciation Month. You don’t have to wait for a crisis. Today is the right day to begin covering your pastor in prayer.

Practical Ways to Encourage Through Prayer

Praying is powerful, but sometimes it helps to pair prayer with action. Here are some simple ways to pray and encourage without forcing pastors to “say the thing” themselves:

Daily and Quiet Support

Text your pastor, “I prayed Psalm 23 over you this morning.”
Write a short card with a Scripture and let them know you’re interceding.
Form a small prayer circle that commits to covering leadership weekly.

Creative Prayer Commitments

Organize a 24-hour prayer chain for your pastor and their family.
Use the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal as a small group resource.
Create a church-wide “Prayer Wall” where people sign up to cover specific days.

Advocacy in Action

Speak up in leadership meetings about the need for sabbaticals.
Remind others in your congregation why prayer matters.
Share encouraging posts and resources publicly, even when pastors won’t.

Why Cedar Creek Ministries Champions Prayer

Our mission is built on three words: Rest, Restore, Revive.

Rest : through sabbaticals and retreats.
Restore : through biblical counseling and family support.
Revive : through leadership development rooted in Christ.

But none of that happens without prayer. Prayer is the foundation. Prayer is the fuel. Prayer is what sustains pastors when no one else knows what they’re carrying.

That’s why the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal is more than a tool, it’s a movement. It’s our way of helping the Church step up and say what pastors won’t say for themselves: we need to cover them in prayer.

How You Can Start Today

Here’s how you can step into this calling:

Pick up a Prayer Pledge Drive Journal . Don’t wait for October. Anytime is the right time to start praying for your pastor.
Commit to daily intercession. Even a few minutes of faithful prayer will make an eternal difference.
Be the voice. Share encouragement, speak the truth, and advocate for pastors who won’t draw attention to themselves.

Final Word: If They Won’t Say It, We Can

Pastors live in a culture that often silences their needs. They won’t announce that they’re tired. They won’t confess how heavy the load is. They won’t post on social media asking for prayer.

But we can.

We can pray. We can speak. We can encourage. We can be the voice of compassion and truth when they feel they can’t.

At Cedar Creek Ministries , we’ll keep reminding the Church that pastors don’t just need encouragement once a year, they need faithful intercession every day. And we’ll keep equipping people through resources like the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal, because covering pastors in prayer is the single greatest gift we can give.

So today, don’t wait. Be the voice they don’t have. Pick up a Prayer Pledge Drive Journal , and begin the work of prayer that will strengthen your pastor, their family, and the Church itself.

Restoring What Matters Most: Why Pastors’ Families Need Time Together

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 14:53:15 GMT

Ministry doesn’t just drain leaders; it drains the people who love them most.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, one thing we’ve learned is this: when pastors rest, their families heal too.

Over the years, we’ve welcomed countless pastors and leaders to our cabins, men and women who looked exhausted, their spouses carrying unseen burdens, and children quietly adapting to the constant demands of ministry. And over and over again, we’ve witnessed something powerful: when leaders finally slow down, their families rediscover each other.

It’s not always the late-night phone calls, hospital visits, or counseling sessions that break pastors down, it’s what those interruptions steal from their families. Ministry doesn’t just drain leaders; it drains the people who love them most.

That’s why Cedar Creek Ministries exists: not only to give pastors rest, but to create sacred space for marriages and families to reconnect.

Ministry Is a Family Calling

We often say that when one person is called into ministry, the whole family is called. Children grow up competing with church calendars. Spouses share their husband or wife with an entire congregation. Family time is interrupted by crises, meetings, and “just one more” phone call.

And while pastors may willingly carry that load, their families often carry it too, without choosing it.

That’s why sabbaticals and retreats aren’t just for pastors; they’re for their households. They give families a chance to breathe, talk, laugh, and remember what it feels like to belong to one another without the constant weight of ministry pressing in.

Stories of Family Renewal

Every family we host teaches us again why this work matters. Here are just a few:

A pastor’s wife sat on the porch, tears in her eyes, and said: “This is the most time I’ve seen my husband in years.” Ministry had consumed him, but here she got her husband back.
A young couple with small children left their kids with grandparents to spend a few days onsite. They told us, “We haven’t made intentional alone time since our first child was born, five years ago.” Those days together reminded them why they fell in love in the first place.
One pastor shared quietly, “It just feels so nice not to feel like I have to be ‘on’ while I’m here.” For the first time in a long time, he wasn’t the counselor, the preacher, the fixer, or the leader. He was simply a man, a husband, a father, resting in God’s presence.

These aren’t rare stories, they’re constant. They remind us that pastoral care isn’t only about preventing burnout in leaders, it’s about protecting the health of marriages and families.

Sabbaticals That Heal Families

Too often, sabbaticals are imagined as isolated retreats where pastors study and rest alone. But true sabbaticals should also be a gift to the whole family.

When families take sabbaticals together, they:

Rebuild joy through laughter and play.
Restore marriages through conversation and time.
Reset rhythms of meals, rest, and family traditions.

That’s why at Cedar Creek Ministries, we make space for hikes, campfires, family dinners, and long unhurried mornings. Because if a sabbatical refreshes the pastor but leaves the family exhausted, it hasn’t done its full work.

Priorities Over Busyness

One of the most common themes we hear onsite is this: “We didn’t realize how far we had drifted until we slowed down.”

Pastors often confess through tears:

“I thought I was serving my family by serving the church, but I was missing them.”
“We’ve let busyness replace our real priorities.”
“I don’t want my kids to grow up resenting ministry.”

These aren’t moments of failure, they’re moments of clarity. And clarity brings change. Sabbaticals give leaders and families the chance to reorder their priorities, placing Christ first, family second, and ministry in its rightful place.

Prayer: The Hidden Strength of Families

If there’s one thing every church member can do to protect their pastor’s family, it’s pray.

Prayer sustains marriages. Prayer strengthens children. Prayer guards families from spiritual attack. And prayer gives pastors wisdom to balance calling and home life.

This is why we created the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal . It’s not just for praying over Sunday sermons or ministry growth, it’s for covering pastors’ marriages, spouses, and children in prayer every single day.

Inside the journal you’ll find:

Daily prompts for wisdom, endurance, joy, and protection.
Scriptures that anchor your intercession.
Space to reflect on what God shows you as you pray.

And here’s the truth: anytime is a good time to start praying for your pastor. You don’t have to wait for Pastor Appreciation Month. Whether it’s October, January, or the middle of summer, your prayers make a difference right now.

That’s why the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal is designed to start anytime, with guided steps that help you stay faithful in covering your pastor and their family.

Creative Ways to Appreciate the Whole Family

If you want to bless your pastor’s family, here are a few ideas:

Simple and Practical

Send a handwritten note to the pastor’s spouse.
Drop off a basket of snacks and games for family night.
Offer childcare so parents can have a quiet evening together.

Family-Focused

Invite the family for dinner with no agenda.
Give the kids a special gift just for them.
Plan a “no church talk” outing where the family can just enjoy being together.

Larger Gestures

Cover the cost of a family vacation or retreat.
Collect cards and appreciation notes for each member of the household.
Organize a church-wide family appreciation night.

When you encourage the family, you encourage the pastor. When you lift the family up in prayer, you lighten the leader’s load.

Why Cedar Creek Ministries Focuses on Families

Our mission is simple: Rest, Restore, Revive.

Rest : We create space for leaders and families to step away from demands.
Restore : We help marriages and households find strength in Christ.
Revive : We send pastors back with renewed vision and energy for ministry.

We’ve seen firsthand that when families are restored, pastors thrive. And when pastors thrive, churches grow strong.

How You Can Join the Story

If your heart beats for this mission, here are three simple ways to be part of it:

Pray – Start today with the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal . Anytime is a good time to begin praying for your pastor and their family.
Give – Partner with Cedar Creek Ministries so more families can experience sabbaticals and retreats.
Share – Tell your church why rest and family time matter. Encourage leaders to see sabbaticals not as weakness but as wisdom.

Final Word: Families Need Rest Too

Every time we watch a pastor’s child laugh freely, a spouse sigh with relief, or a couple rediscover each other after years of busyness, we’re reminded of this truth: pastors don’t just need rest, families need it too.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we’ll never stop making space for families to heal. Because strong families build strong leaders, and strong leaders build strong churches.

So whether you’re a church member, a ministry leader, or simply someone who cares, start today. Pray for your pastor. Support their family. And remember: anytime is a good time to pick up a Prayer Pledge Drive Journal and begin covering them in prayer.

Why Cedar Creek Ministries Exists: Rest, Sabbaticals, Priorities, and Prayer for Our Pastors

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:15:28 GMT

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we exist because we believe pastors should not have to carry their burdens alone.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve stood there, biting my tongue, as someone casually said, “I don’t know what pastors even do all week. Must be nice to work just one day.”

If you’ve ever been in ministry or walked closely with a pastor, you know how far from reality that comment is. And to be honest, it drives us nuts. Not because we need people to respect pastors more for our own sake, but because misunderstanding the role leads to a lack of support, compassion, and care. And that lack of support is one of the reasons pastors burn out at alarming rates.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we exist because we believe pastors should not have to carry their burdens alone. We believe sabbaticals, rest, and prayer are not luxuries, they’re lifelines. And we’re committed to standing in the gap for those who shepherd the flock of God.

This article is a deep dive into why pastors need support, what sabbaticals and preventative rest look like, and how the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal can help everyday believers step into the vital role of intercessor for their leaders.

The Hidden Weight of Pastoral Ministry

Let’s be honest: most people don’t see what pastors do. They see Sunday sermons. Maybe a midweek Bible study. And that’s about it.

But behind the scenes, here’s what a pastor’s week might really look like:

Crisis care : a 2 a.m. hospital call when a child is in critical condition.
Counseling : back-to-back meetings with couples fighting for their marriage.
Administrative load : budgets, board meetings, volunteer scheduling, and facility management.
Spiritual leadership : hours of prayer, sermon prep, and vision casting.
Family sacrifices : missed dinners, interrupted vacations, and the stress of carrying a calling that affects every member of the household.

It’s no surprise that 70% of pastors report regularly battling burnout . Many admit feeling isolated, overworked, and underappreciated.

And that’s exactly why Cedar Creek Ministries exists: to help pastors rest before they crash, to restore families before they fracture, and to revive ministry vision before it fades.

Why Sabbaticals Matter

One of the greatest tools for longevity in ministry is the sabbatical. But too many churches misunderstand or avoid them.

A sabbatical isn’t a long vacation or an extended holiday. It’s a deliberate, structured time for rest, renewal, and recalibration. Biblically, it echoes God’s own rhythm of Sabbath, six days of work followed by one day of rest, six years of labor followed by one year of letting the land lie fallow.

When pastors take sabbaticals:

They return renewed : physically, emotionally, and spiritually recharged.
Their families are restored : spouses and children often experience healing when schedules slow down.
Their ministries are revived : new vision, fresh perspective, and deeper dependence on the Lord flow from intentional rest.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we champion sabbaticals because we’ve seen firsthand the difference they make. We host pastors and their families in our cabins, offering a safe place to step away from constant demands. Our model is simple: Rest, Restore, Revive.

Preventative Rest: Not Waiting Until It’s Too Late

One of the hardest things to watch is a pastor who only stops when he or she collapses. Preventive rest is the opposite approach.

Instead of waiting for burnout to set in, preventative rest builds rhythms of renewal into the calendar and culture of ministry.

Practical steps toward preventative rest include:

Weekly Sabbath : one day with no ministry responsibilities, reserved for worship, family, and refreshment.
Quarterly Retreats : a weekend away to reflect, pray, and recharge.
Annual Sabbaticals : intentional time off after several years of service.
Priorities : intentionally choosing what matters most, protecting time with family, setting limits on constant demands, and keeping Christ at the center of every decision.

We often say: rest is not weakness, it’s wisdom. When pastors are cared for, their churches thrive.

The Role of Prayer in Supporting Pastors

If there’s one thing every believer can do for their pastor, it’s this: pray.

Prayer isn’t just encouragement, it’s power. When you pray for your pastor, you are asking God Himself to strengthen, protect, and guide them. That’s no small thing.

But most of us, if we’re honest, struggle with consistency in prayer. We mean to pray. We might pray when a crisis comes up. But we don’t always cover our leaders daily.

That’s why Cedar Creek Ministries created the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal .

The Prayer Pledge Drive Journal: A Tool for Intercession

The Prayer Pledge Drive Journal is more than a notebook, it’s a guide. It walks you through how to pray faithfully for your pastor over the course of a month and beyond.

Inside, you’ll find:

Daily prompts : Scripture and topics to pray over (wisdom, endurance, family, purity, courage).
Reflection space : to write what God is teaching you as you intercede.
Pledge structure : a way to commit and stay accountable to pray every day.

When an entire church takes the prayer pledge, the spiritual covering over that pastor becomes tangible. The load is shared. The battle is fought together.

We believe prayer is one of the most powerful forms of pastoral appreciation. Because while gifts and events are wonderful, only prayer can sustain a soul in the trenches of spiritual warfare.

Creative Ways to Appreciate Your Pastor

Pastor Appreciation Month gives us an annual reminder to pause and say “thank you.” But appreciation should never stop in October.

Here are creative ways, ranging from simple to elaborate, that you can show love to your pastor this year:

Simple, Everyday Gestures

Write a handwritten note of gratitude.
Deliver a coffee or their favorite snack.
Text a Bible verse you’re praying over them.
Offer to mow their lawn, shovel snow, or run errands.

Family-Focused Care

Provide a gift card for a family dinner.
Babysit so they can enjoy a date night.
Drop off a “movie night basket” with popcorn, candy, and a streaming gift card.

Big-Impact Blessings

Collect letters from the congregation and present them in a book.
Organize a surprise appreciation service with testimonies.
Cover one of their bills for a month.
Sponsor a retreat weekend or vacation.

Ongoing Support

Encourage the church to establish a sabbatical policy.
Form a monthly prayer team that meets just to intercede for leadership.
Partner with Cedar Creek Ministries to provide pastoral care beyond your church walls.

Appreciation doesn’t always have to cost money, it just has to be intentional.

Why Cedar Creek Ministries Supports Pastors

At the heart of Cedar Creek Ministries is a conviction: healthy pastors lead healthy churches.

We’ve seen the toll ministry takes. We’ve heard the stories of burnout, broken families, and discouraged leaders. And we’ve also seen the transformation that comes when pastors are given space to breathe, pray, and reconnect with the Lord.

That’s why we focus on three pillars:

Rest – Hosting pastors for sabbaticals and retreats.
Restore – Offering biblical counseling for leaders and families.
Revive – Providing leadership development to renew vision and mission.

When pastors are cared for, congregations grow stronger. When leaders thrive, communities are impacted. And when the Church supports its shepherds, the Kingdom advances.

How You Can Partner with Us

If your heart resonates with this mission, here are practical ways to get involved:

Pray – Join us by taking the Prayer Pledge for your pastor using the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal .
Give – Support Cedar Creek Ministries financially so we can continue offering sabbaticals, counseling, and resources.
Share – Spread the word about why pastoral rest, sabbaticals, and priorities matter. Use your influence to shift the culture in your church.
Invite – If you’re a pastor, reach out. If you’re a church member, recommend Cedar Creek Ministries to your leadership.

Final Word: Pastors Don’t Just Work on Sundays

Next time someone says, “What does a pastor even do all week?”, you’ll know the truth. Pastors aren’t part-time preachers. They are full-time shepherds, intercessors, counselors, and leaders.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we exist so they don’t have to walk alone. We believe in sabbaticals. We believe in rest. We believe in the wisdom of setting Christ-centered priorities. And we believe in the power of prayer through tools like the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal .

Because pastors who are cared for lead churches that are alive, healthy, and thriving. And that’s something worth investing in for the sake of the Kingdom, for the sake of families, and for the sake of eternity.

The Best Gift You Can Give Your Pastor This Pastor Appreciation Month

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 16:07:50 GMT

The best gift you can give your pastor is prayer.

October Is Pastor Appreciation Month — But What If We’ve Been Giving the Wrong Gift?

Every October, churches across the country pause to honor their pastors. Some give cards. Others give gift baskets, restaurant vouchers, or a round of applause from the pulpit.

These gestures matter. They encourage. They say, “We see you.”

But this year, I want to challenge you to give something even greater, something that won’t be spent, used up, or tossed aside.

The best gift you can give your pastor is prayer.

The Reality: Pastoral Burnout Is on the Rise

It’s no secret that Christian leadership is hard. But recent statistics paint a sobering picture:

Nearly half of pastors have seriously considered quitting full-time ministry in the past year.
Burnout is now one of the top reasons pastors leave their calling.
Many pastors have never had a true sabbatical or extended period of rest.
Emotional exhaustion, isolation, and the weight of constant leadership decisions have pushed many to the edge.

Your pastor might be one of them, and you might never know it.

Why Prayer Matters More Than Applause

Applause is wonderful in the moment, but it fades quickly.

Prayer, however, goes deeper.

When you pray for your pastor, you’re:

Asking God to strengthen them spiritually.
Covering them in wisdom for tough decisions.
Interceding for their family and their rest.
Standing in the gap against spiritual attack.

As Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 1:11 , “You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.”

Prayer is the one gift that multiplies in power, and God will use it.

Step One: Recognize Your Pastor’s Biggest Prayer Need

Generic prayers are good, but targeted, biblical prayers are even better. That’s why we created the Recognize Your Pastor’s Biggest Prayer Need Quiz .

In just a few minutes, you’ll:

Discover the most pressing need your pastor may be facing right now.
Learn how to pray for that need with Scripture as your guide.
Get equipped to intercede with clarity and purpose.

This quiz is the first step in joining our 28-Day October Prayer Challenge , a month of covering your pastor with intentional, life-giving prayer.

Take the Quiz Here

Step Two: Put Your Prayers into Action with the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal

Once you know your pastor’s greatest prayer need, you’ll want to keep the momentum going.
That’s where the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal comes in.

Inside you’ll find:

31 days of guided Scripture-based prayers tailored to the needs of ministry leaders.
Space to record answered prayers and encouragement notes.
Practical ideas for showing your pastor love beyond words.
A simple layout that keeps you consistent without overwhelming your schedule.

This journal isn’t just a tool… it’s a framework for blessing your pastor all month long.
By the end of October, you’ll have prayed over every major area of their life and ministry.

Get the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal

Stories That Prove It Works

A church member in Iowa committed to praying daily for her pastor using this journal. She later shared:

“By week three, I started noticing changes… not just in him, but in me. Our conversations were deeper. He said he felt renewed energy for ministry. I realized God was working in both of us.”

In another church, a group of members took the challenge together. They reported fewer conflicts in leadership meetings, greater unity in worship, and a renewed vision for outreach.

This is what happens when a church prays for its pastor… God moves .

Step Three: Join the 28-Day October Prayer Challenge

Here’s how to make this Pastor Appreciation Month unforgettable:

Take the Quiz → Find out your pastor’s biggest prayer need.
Get the Journal → Follow the 31-day plan to pray with power.
Invite Others → Encourage your small group, Sunday school, or friends to join in.

Imagine your pastor walking into November refreshed, encouraged, and strengthened, not because of applause, but because a community stood in the gap for them.

Don’t Wait. Start Today!

Pastoral burnout doesn’t wait.
Every day without prayer is a missed opportunity to lift your pastor’s load.

�� Take the quiz right now and then grab your Prayer Pledge Drive Journal and commit to the 28-Day October Prayer Challenge. Let’s make this Pastor Appreciation Month the one that changes everything.

Take the Quiz

Get the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal

How a Month of Prayer Can Change Your Pastor’s Life…And Your Church

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 16:09:31 GMT

It started simply: members pledged to pray for their pastor each day, using Scripture and specific needs as their guide.

When Prayer Became the Culture, Everything Changed

A few years ago, a large church decided to do something unusual.

Instead of centering Pastor Appreciation Month in October, they set aside the month of February for what they called the Prayer Pledge Drive , a 28-day commitment to cover their pastor in daily, intentional prayer.

It started simply: members pledged to pray for their pastor each day, using Scripture and specific needs as their guide. The Prayer Pledge Drive Journal gave everyone a shared plan, a Scripture reading, a focused prayer point, and a space to write what God laid on their hearts.

The first year, they saw a wave of encouragement.
The second year, something shifted.
By the third year, prayer for their pastor wasn’t an event, it was part of their church DNA.

“Now, it’s just what we do,” one elder explained. “If a need comes up, we pray. If there’s a hard week, we cover our pastor. It’s second nature. We can’t imagine going back.”

The Reality: Burnout Is Still a Threat

Even in healthy churches, the pressures of ministry are real:

Nearly half of pastors consider leaving ministry at some point.
Many never receive a sabbatical or extended rest.
The emotional weight of Christian leadership often goes unseen.

That’s why intentional seasons of prayer, like the Prayer Pledge Drive, matter so much. They not only bless your pastor in the moment, but they help your church build habits that protect against burnout year-round.

Why Prayer Matters More Than Applause

Appreciation Sundays and applause from the pulpit are wonderful, but they fade quickly.

Prayer, on the other hand, leaves a lasting mark:

It strengthens your pastor’s spiritual resilience.
It invites God’s wisdom into their leadership.
It protects them from discouragement and attack.
It fosters unity within the church body.

As 1 Timothy 2:1 says, “I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people” and that includes the leaders God has placed over us.

From February to October… And Beyond

The Prayer Pledge Drive isn’t tied to a single month.
That’s why we’re inviting churches and individuals across the country to join in for October’s Pastor Appreciation Month .

Even if your church has never done a Prayer Pledge Drive before, you can start small:

Take the Recognize Your Pastor’s Biggest Prayer Need Quiz to pinpoint where your pastor needs covering most right now.
Use the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal to commit to 28 days of intentional, Scripture-based prayer.
Invite others because the more people covering your pastor, the greater the impact.

Take the Quiz

Get the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal

How the Journal Works

Inside the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal, you’ll find:

Daily Scriptures to guide your prayers.
A focused prayer point for each day.
Space to record encouragement notes or answered prayers.
Practical ideas for showing support beyond prayer.

It’s simple enough to use personally, but powerful when used church-wide.

What Happens When Prayer Becomes Habit

At that large church, the Prayer Pledge Drive created something unexpected:

Members began praying for other ministry leaders, not just the pastor.
Conflicts were addressed more quickly, often in prayer before they escalated.
People felt a deeper sense of ownership in the spiritual health of the church.

This wasn’t just a program. It became a culture.
And it all started with one month of focused prayer.

Your Turn to Start the Shift

Imagine what could happen if, this October, you began the same journey.
You might find yourself stepping into November with a stronger church family and a pastor who feels truly supported, not just celebrated.

�� Start today:

Take the Quiz to identify your pastor’s biggest prayer need.
Get the Journal and commit to the 28-Day October Prayer Challenge.
Invite a friend to join you because culture change starts with more than one person.

Take the Quiz

Get the Prayer Pledge Drive Journal

How to Protect Your Energy in Ministry Without Letting Anyone Down

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 14:39:49 GMT

Protecting your energy isn’t selfish…it’s stewardship.

There’s an unspoken belief in many churches: “If I slow down, the work of ministry will suffer.”

Whether you’re a pastor, a Sunday school teacher, a volunteer, or a missionary, it can feel like you need to be available to everyone, all the time. But here’s the truth, you serve better, not less, when you protect your energy.

Jesus modeled this for us. He withdrew from crowds, rested, prayed, and even left needs unmet to obey His Father’s timing. Protecting your energy isn’t selfish…it’s stewardship.

In this post, we’ll explore the myth of endless availability, name the three biggest energy drains in ministry, and look at simple, biblical shifts that will help you serve from a place of strength. And if you want a clear picture of where you are right now, I’ll point you to a free quiz that will show your burnout risk in just a few minutes.

The Myth of Endless Availability

Church life is full of needs, and it’s easy to believe that saying “yes” to everything is the most faithful option. But endless availability is unsustainable.

It keeps you reactive instead of prayerfully proactive. It robs you of rest, creativity, and focus. And it often means you’re serving from an empty tank.

Ministry leaders and servants who last for decades learn to set God-led priorities. They say “yes” and “no” prayerfully, trusting that He’s building the church…not their 24/7 presence.

3 Barriers That Drain Energy

1. Poor Priorities
If your time is dictated entirely by others’ needs, burnout is just a matter of time. Healthy priorities protect both you and the people you serve.

2. Lack of Delegation
Taking on tasks others could do keeps you overworked and prevents others from growing in their gifts. Delegation multiplies ministry.

3. Neglected Spiritual Renewal
If all your time in Scripture and prayer is for ministry prep, you’re skipping the refreshment your own soul needs.

Simple Practices That Refill You

You don’t need a total life overhaul to see change. You can start with small, intentional steps:

Block off non-negotiable rest time each week.
Connect regularly with people who fill your cup.
Step away briefly for personal prayer during your ministry week.

These are the kinds of rhythms we build into the Weekly Renewal Plan for Ministry Leaders and Servants . It’s basic and simple, but also practical, biblical, and realistic for busy schedules.

What’s Next?

You don’t have to choose between a thriving ministry and a healthy life. Protecting your energy is one of the most faithful things you can do for God, for those you serve, and for yourself.

Take the Beat Ministry Burnout Quiz to see your burnout risk and get your next step toward renewal. It’s quick, private, and designed for anyone serving in ministry.

Once you finish, you’ll have the chance to get the Weekly Renewal Plan for Ministry Leaders and Servants, a simple, 3-step printable to help you protect your energy, strengthen your walk with God, and serve with joy for the long haul.

�� Click here to take the quiz now

7 Warning Signs of Ministry Burnout You Can’t Afford to Ignore

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 14:36:24 GMT

If you’re not careful, the very work you love can leave you exhausted, discouraged, and disconnected.

It’s Sunday afternoon. The service is over, the last conversation has wrapped up, and you finally sit down. The phone is still buzzing. The next ministry task is already waiting. And deep down, you wonder how long you can keep up this pace.

Burnout doesn’t arrive all at once. It sneaks in quietly, often disguised as “just another busy season.” But when the busy seasons never end, the slow drain becomes dangerous.

Whether you’re a pastor, worship leader, volunteer, missionary, or faithful servant in your church, ministry is one of the greatest callings on earth and one of the most relentless. If you’re not careful, the very work you love can leave you exhausted, discouraged, and disconnected.

In this post, we’ll explore seven warning signs of ministry burnout that every servant of God should know. Along the way, I’ll share practical ways to guard your health, protect your joy, and keep serving from a place of strength. And if you want to know where you stand right now, there’s a short quiz that will help you find out in just a few minutes.

What Burnout Really Is (and Isn’t)

Burnout is more than being tired. It’s a state of emotional, physical, and spiritual depletion that leaves you unable to serve at your best, no matter how much you care about the work.

Normal fatigue is fixed with a day off or a good night’s sleep. Burnout doesn’t disappear that easily. It’s what happens when you’ve been pouring out more than you’ve been filled for far too long.

In ministry, burnout is unique because it’s not just about tasks, it’s about people and the gospel. That weight can make it harder to say no, harder to rest, and harder to admit when you need help.

The good news? Burnout isn’t inevitable. If you can spot the signs early and take steps to address them, you can protect your well-being and serve for the long haul with joy and endurance.

7 Warning Signs of Ministry Burnout

1. Emotional Exhaustion That No Amount of Sleep Fixes
You feel worn down to your core, and rest doesn’t seem to restore you.

2. Cynicism or Detachment from Ministry Work
You start questioning people’s motives, disengaging from what once excited you.

3. Loss of Joy in Serving
The work that once felt like a privilege now feels like an obligation.

4. Neglecting Personal Spiritual Practices
Your Bible reading and prayer life revolve entirely around ministry tasks.

5. Strained Relationships at Home
Your family gets what’s left of you, not the best of you.

6. Physical Symptoms
Frequent headaches, tension, poor sleep, or changes in appetite can be stress signals.

7. Avoidance Behaviors
You escape into distractions, endless scrolling, TV, or even more work, to avoid facing how drained you feel.

First Steps to Reverse the Trend

If you see yourself in these signs, you’re not alone, and you’re not failing. Even faithful servants can run low.

Try starting with:

A half-day of rest for prayer and reflection (no ministry tasks allowed).
A call or coffee with a trusted friend or mentor .
Tracking your ministry commitments for one week to spot overload patterns.

These aren’t full solutions, but they can stop the slide and give you breathing room.

What’s Next?

Burnout doesn’t have to be your story. The sooner you identify where you are, the sooner you can take steps toward renewal.

That’s why I created the Beat Ministry Burnout Quiz , a quick, private, 7-question tool for pastors, volunteers, missionaries, and ministry leaders of all kinds. It reveals your burnout risk level and gives you your next step toward health.

It takes less than 3 minutes, and when you finish, you’ll have the option to grab my Weekly Renewal Plan for Ministry Leaders and Servants , a simple, 3-step printable that helps you protect your energy, deepen your walk with God, and serve with joy.

�� Click here to take the quiz now

Why They Don’t Serve: And What to Do About It

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 14:35:06 GMT

People don’t volunteer through announcements. They respond to relationship.

Part 5 of the “Many Hands, Heavy Loads” Series on Preventing Burnout in the Church

The Empty Sign-Up Sheet

You’ve announced it three Sundays in a row.

You created a QR code.
You set out clipboards.
You added it to the church app.

And still… no one signs up.

You start to wonder:

Are people just apathetic?
Does no one care?
Is it really all falling on the same 10 people again?

Not necessarily.

At Cedar Creek Ministries , we’ve spoken with countless people who want to serve, but don’t. Not because they’re selfish. But because they’re hurting, unsure, overwhelmed, or unsure where they fit.

In this final blog of the Many Hands, Heavy Loads series, we’ll explore the quiet reasons people hold back and how ministry leaders can cultivate a culture where people serve from healing, not guilt.

The Misunderstood Majority

When people don’t serve, we often assume:

They’re lazy
They don’t prioritize church
They’re too busy with worldly things

But here’s what we often don’t see:

They’ve served in the past and been burned
They’ve never been personally invited or discipled
They’re introverted and overwhelmed by church systems
They assume their gifts aren’t needed
They’ve been overlooked, hurt, or shamed in previous churches
They’re in a fragile season (grief, family crisis, spiritual doubt)

Many of them are not unfaithful.
They’re just unseen.

What Keeps People on the Sidelines

1. Fear of Overcommitment

They’ve watched others burn out. Maybe they’ve burned out themselves.
They hesitate because they don’t want to get sucked into a machine.

2. Lack of Personal Invitation

People don’t volunteer through announcements. They respond to relationship.
If no one says, “We see this in you,” most won’t step forward.

3. Unclear Pathways

If the only entry point is joining a committee or leading a class, most people won’t take the first step.
They need micro-opportunities that feel manageable and safe.

4. Perceived Exclusivity

When the same group of people always leads everything, others begin to assume:

“That’s their thing.”
“They don’t need me.”
“I wouldn’t fit in there.”

5. Wounds from Past Church Experiences

They’ve been used.
They’ve felt ignored, judged, or burned.
So now they sit quietly and observe, unsure if your church is safe.

What Not to Do as a Leader

❌ Don’t guilt people into serving: “If you really loved Jesus, you’d help.”
❌ Don’t shame people for rest: “Some of us are here every week.”
❌ Don’t make public pleas without private investment
❌ Don’t mistake silence for apathy

People who don’t serve may be holding something you need to understand, not ignore.

What To Do Instead: Create a Culture of Healthy Invitation

✅ 1. Have Personal Conversations

Ask: “Have you ever served in a ministry that brought you joy?”
Follow up with: “Would you be willing to try something small again with support and rest built in?”

✅ 2. Create Low-Pressure On-Ramps

Offer opportunities like:

2-week trial commitments
Shadowing experienced volunteers
Seasonal-only serving (e.g. Advent, VBS)
Pairing people with a “buddy” in their first role

✅ 3. Validate Non-Sunday Gifts

Not everyone is called to greet at the door or teach a class.
Ask what lights them up: hospitality, carpentry, tech, organizing, quiet prayer?
Make room for diverse forms of service.

✅ 4. Make Healing Part of the Culture

Openly acknowledge that past church hurt is real.
Let people know they are safe to say no, and safe to come back later.
Model emotional honesty in leadership.

✅ 5. Teach What Biblical Service Looks Like

Service isn’t performance. It’s worship.
It’s Spirit-led, not pressure-filled.
It starts from identity in Christ, not insecurity or obligation.

A Word to the One Who’s Sitting Out

If you’ve been watching from the sidelines, not because you don’t care, but because you’re tired, hesitant, or healing…this is for you:

You’re not selfish.
You’re not broken.
You’re not disobedient.

You may be discerning.

And when the time is right, when the Lord leads, there will be a space for you not just to serve, but to belong.

Encouragement for Ministry Leaders

Pastors, pastors’ wives, missionaries, directors—don’t lose heart.

The people you need might be sitting quietly, waiting for someone to see them, not just staff them.

Burnout prevention starts with invitation over expectation.

You don’t need more announcements.
You need more eye contact.
More grace.
More conversations that sound like this:

“You don’t have to do everything. But you do matter deeply here. How can we support you?”

Tools to Help You Invite Without Pressure

�� Monthly Ministry Check-In Sheet – Use this with current volunteers to make space for honesty �� Download Here
�� Burnout Red Flag Checklist – Spot signs early in those who may return to serving too soon �� Download Here
�� Sustainable Ministry Toolkit – Includes our burnout prevention book, AI workshop, team-building templates & more (coming soon)

Final Thoughts: From Sidelined to Seen

The solution to overburdened teams isn’t just more volunteers.
It’s healthier cultures.
It’s gentler onramps.
It’s recognizing that many hands make light work, but only when many hearts feel safe.

Let’s be the kind of Church that sees the quiet ones, heals the hurt ones, and invites the waiting ones to step into service with joy.

Not because we need them.
But because we love them.

�� Recap: Many Hands, Heavy Loads Blog Series

Blog 1: The Pastor Who Feeds Everyone: But Forgets to Rest the Sheep
Blog 2: Behind the Bulletin: When Church Becomes Production Over People
Blog 3: Serving Without Worship: When Ministry Pulls Families Apart
Blog 4: The Cost of Yes: What Churches Miss About Their Most Faithful Servants
Blog 5: You Are Here: Why They Don’t Serve—And What to Do About It

For more resources, visit www.CedarCreekMinistries.org

The Cost of Yes: What Churches Miss About Their Most Faithful Servants

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 19:23:34 GMT

We are called to serve, not to self-destruct.

Part 4 of the “Many Hands, Heavy Loads” Series on Preventing Burnout in the Church

The Unseen Resignation

She didn’t storm out.
There was no dramatic email.
No confrontation.

She just quietly stopped showing up.

The woman who led VBS for five years.
The one who filled in whenever someone called out.
The one who brought extra snacks, stayed late, and never complained.

She was gone.
And no one really asked why.

“I thought I was just tired,” she later told a friend.
“But I was drowning and didn’t know how to say no.”

This is the cost of yes.

The slow, silent erosion of soul, spirit, and strength when faithfulness is mistaken for unlimited capacity.

At Cedar Creek Ministries , we’ve seen it time and time again… pastors, missionaries, pastors’ wives, and volunteers smiling outwardly while breaking inwardly. This blog is for them. For all of us. And for a Church that wants to do better.

The Silent Struggle of the Faithful

In church culture, we often praise the dependable, the available, and the self-sacrificing.

“She’s always there.”
“He never says no.”
“They’re our go-to family.”

But behind these statements lies a dangerous assumption:

That faithfulness = infinite capacity
That silence = consent
That a “yes” always means someone is doing okay

But the most faithful people are often the least likely to ask for help.

They don’t want to be a burden.
They don’t want to disappoint anyone.
They don’t want to appear unspiritual.

So they say yes. Again. And again.
Until they disappear.

Why Churches Keep Missing It

1. Faithfulness Gets Taken for Granted

If someone always shows up, we stop checking in.

If they don’t complain, we assume they’re fine.

2. Busyness Gets Rewarded

We celebrate the busiest people with public thank-yous, rarely asking if they’re doing okay privately.

3. Unclear Priorities

Many faithful servants wear five hats but only ever signed up for one.
No one tracks their load. No one offers a break.

4. We Assume They’ll Speak Up

But the more tired a servant becomes, the less likely they are to say anything until they crash, leave, or quietly fade into the background.

“No one asked how I was doing until I stopped doing everything.”

What Burnout Looks Like in the Faithful

Burnout doesn’t always look like quitting.

It often looks like:

Showing up with a forced smile
Going through the motions without joy
Avoiding community outside of “duty”
Becoming spiritually numb or dry
Withdrawing emotionally
Quietly resenting what they once loved

They may still be there in body but they’re long gone in heart.

What Scripture Says About Limitations

Even Jesus said no.

He withdrew from the crowds (Mark 1:35).
He didn’t heal everyone (John 5:1–15).
He delegated to the disciples (Luke 10).
He built in rhythms of rest (Mark 6:31).

And in Acts 6, the early church leaders appointed deacons not because they didn’t care, but because they couldn’t do everything.

“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.”
— Romans 12:6

We are called to serve, not to self-destruct.

How Ministry Leaders Can Protect Their Most Faithful

As ministry leaders, pastors, missionaries, and directors, you help shape the culture your team will adopt. Here’s how to care for the people you depend on most:

✅ 1. Use the Monthly Ministry Check-In Sheet

Ask questions beyond the logistics: “How’s your soul? How’s your family?”
Download a free printable here.

✅ 2. Map Volunteer Load

Track who is serving where—and how often.
Create rotation plans. Schedule breaks before they’re needed.

✅ 3. Model Healthy Priorities

If leaders never say no, neither will volunteers.
Start by honoring your own limits.

✅ 4. Celebrate Rest, Not Just Service

Affirm those who take sabbaticals.
Normalize stepping back for a season.
Preach rhythms of rest not just hustle for Jesus.

✅ 5. Respond to Silence

If someone goes quiet or begins to withdraw, don’t wait for them to burn out.
Reach out. Ask the uncomfortable questions.

What to Say Instead of “We Need You”

Sometimes our most well-intentioned words pressure people to stay in roles that are harming them. Here’s how to affirm and release:

“You’ve given so much. How are you doing?”
“Would you like to take a break? We’ll figure things out while you rest.”
“We want your soul healthy more than your spot filled.”

A Word to the Servant Who Is Tired

If this is you…if you’re the one who always says yes, the one no one checks on…this is your invitation.

To stop.
To breathe.
To say something.
To let someone else carry the clipboard.

You are not your role.
You are not weak for needing rest.
You are not less faithful because you're weary.

God sees you. He’s not asking for your burnout. He’s inviting you back into His peace.

Real Rest Starts with a Conversation

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we believe burnout prevention starts with soul-level care—not just role management.

Use these free tools with your team, your family, or yourself:

�� Monthly Ministry Check-In Sheet
�� Burnout Red Flag Checklist
�� Sustainable Ministry Toolkit (includes our book + AI workshop – coming soon!)

Final Word: Let the Faithful Rest

Church, it’s time to stop losing our best people to quiet burnout.

Let’s become a place that notices.
That checks in.

That disciples people not only in service but in sustainability.

A joyful servant glorifies God more than a burned-out one ever could.

Let’s make space for our faithful people to rest and still belong.

Coming Next: Why They Don’t Serve: And What to Do About It

We’ll explore the quiet resistance to volunteering, the hidden wounds behind reluctance, and how to move from exclusivity to healthy invitation.

For more resources, visit www.CedarCreekMinistries.org

Serving Without Worship: When Ministry Pulls Families Apart

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 15:57:05 GMT

What happens when “family worship” means waving at each other between responsibilities?

Part 3 of the “Many Hands, Heavy Loads” Series on Preventing Burnout in the Church

The Faithful Family That Never Worships Together

He stood at the door every Sunday, handing out bulletins with a warm smile.

His wife ran the nursery.

Their teenage son managed the soundboard.

Their daughter filled in for a no-show in Sunday School.

This family was known as “servant-hearted.”

But no one noticed they hadn’t sat through an actual worship service together in over a year.

“We didn’t leave the church because we were bitter. We left because we were exhausted. We gave everything, and still lost something sacred.”

This is what happens when ministry replaces worship, and serving becomes survival.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we’ve many families, pastors, and missionaries with this same story. It’s time we name the problem and do better.

When Faithful Families Start to Fracture

Church families often carry the heaviest load.

They don’t just serve. They serve together .
They’re told they’re “model members.”
Their absence is noticed only when the system starts to fail.

But what happens when every Sunday becomes logistics?

What happens when “family worship” means waving at each other between responsibilities?

You get:

Parents who lead others but rarely connect spiritually themselves.
Children who associate church with obligation, not joy.
Marriages strained by exhaustion masked as service.

Why It’s Hard to Say No

Faithful families rarely push back. Why?
Because they love Jesus.
Because they see the need.
Because they think it’s selfish to rest.

But here's the truth:

God doesn’t call families to fracture for the sake of function.

He calls them to worship together, grow together, and serve in rhythms that sustain, not burden, life.

Ministry Leadership Mistakes That Push Families Too Far

Church leaders (often unknowingly) create conditions that damage families under the weight of service. Here's how:

1. No Rotation or Relief

When one family does it all, they keep doing it until they burn out.
Without scheduled rest, people feel guilty stepping away.

2. Guilt-Based Recruitment

“You’re so good at this, we can’t imagine anyone else doing it.”
What sounds like affirmation becomes manipulation when there’s no way out.

3. Rewarding Sacrifice Over Sustainability

We applaud long hours and ‘yes people’ but rarely honor margin or rest.

4. Overlooking the Spouse or Kids

We often thank the leader and forget their family is absorbing the cost behind the scenes.

When Kids Learn Church = Work

One of the most heartbreaking things we hear from ministry leaders’ kids:

“Church was where my parents were too busy to sit with me.”

When a child’s only experience of Sunday morning is rushing, volunteering, and filling in, it shapes their understanding of church, and of God.

They don’t just inherit our faith. They inherit our pace.

A Word to Ministry Wives and Husbands

Pastors' wives. Ministry husbands. Missionary spouses.
You’ve quietly carried more than anyone sees.
You’ve filled gaps no one else would.
You’ve smiled when your spirit was tired.

Please hear this:

You are not invisible.
Your presence in worship matters.
You’re allowed to grieve the pace of ministry, and to seek change.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we believe ministry should never cost you your spiritual health or your marriage.

Burnout Prevention: Serving Without Losing the Family

Here are a few ways to protect families while still fulfilling the call to serve:

��‍��‍��‍�� 1. Prioritize Family Worship

If a family is never together during service, it’s time to rotate or release them.

�� 2. Build Redundant Systems

Don’t rely on the same 3 families. Train backups. Raise up new leaders.

�� 3. Use the Monthly Ministry Check-In

Ask how the whole family is doing, not just the person on the schedule.

�� 4. Create a Culture of Permission

Leaders must say out loud: “You don’t have to do it all. Rest is godly.”

What to Say to a Family Carrying Too Much

Instead of “Thanks for stepping up again,” try:

“You’ve given a lot. Can we give you space to breathe?”
“How’s your heart? How’s your family?”
“We want you in worship. Not just in motion.”

A Note to the Family on the Brink

If this is your story, please hear this:

You’re not failing the church by stepping back.
You’re not selfish for needing to sit together in the pew.
You’re not weak for saying, “We need a break.”

Burnout doesn’t honor God. Obedience does, and obedience includes margin.

Theological Foundation: A God Who Models Rest

God gave His people Sabbath, not as a burden, but as a gift.
Even Jesus, the Savior of the world, took time away from crowds to pray, rest, and be with the Father.

If Jesus didn’t rush through His mission, neither should we.

Tools to Help You Rebuild

Cedar Creek Ministries is here to help.

�� Download:

✅ Monthly Ministry Check-In Sheet – Use it for couples, families, and teams.
✅ Burnout Red Flag Checklist – Spot early signs before people quit.
✅ Sustainable Ministry Toolkit – Coming soon: includes our book & AI workshop!

Final Word: Ministry Should Strengthen Families, Not Shatter Them

The Church is a family, and families within the Church deserve to thrive.

Let’s build teams that rest. Let’s lead from health. Let’s stop applauding burnout and start honoring godly priorities.

Because ministry done at the expense of your family… isn’t ministry at all.

Coming Next in the Series: The Cost of Yes: What Churches Miss About Their Most Faithful Servants

Join us at www.CedarCreekMinistries.org for more tools like this.

Behind the Bulletin: When Church Becomes Production Over People

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 12:45:33 GMT

The Church was never meant to function like a brand or a business.

Part 2 of the “Many Hands, Heavy Loads” Series on Preventing Burnout in the Chur ch

The Sunday Machine

It all runs on schedule:

Slides loaded.
Mic checked.
Coffee brewed.
Countdown video queued.

From the outside, Sunday morning looks seamless. But behind the scenes? Exhaustion. Frustration. Quiet tears in bathroom stalls. Staff meetings filled with spreadsheets instead of Scripture.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we’ve heard the stories too many times:

"I used to love Sundays, but now I dread them. It’s not ministry anymore. It feels more like a production."

This is the second blog in our Many Hands, Heavy Loads series, and today we look at a different kind of burden: church staff burnout.

Whether you're a lead pastor, children's director, media tech, or support admin, the pressure to perform has never been higher. And the cost is piling up.

When Ministry Becomes Maintenance

The Church was never meant to function like a brand or a business.

But in many modern churches, staff are:

Running multi-camera livestreams.
Creating social media reels.
Organizing events every week.
Meeting performance expectations set by metrics, not mission.

This isn’t inherently wrong. But when the soul of ministry is replaced with systems alone, staff members become event planners , not spiritual shepherds .

One burned-out children’s ministry director told us:

“I haven’t heard a full sermon in two years. I used to cry during worship and now I’m just praying the check-in system doesn’t crash.”

The Hidden Toll on Church Staff

Church staff burnout isn’t always visible. They still smile. Still show up. Still hit deadlines. But here’s what’s happening beneath the surface:

1. Emotional Disconnection

They’re physically present but spiritually numb. No time to receive because they’re always pouring out.

2. Overextension by Necessity

In many churches, budget constraints mean one person wears five hats. Excellence is expected without enough support.

3. Invisibility of Non-Pastoral Roles

Media coordinators, nursery staff, and office managers carry enormous loads but are rarely affirmed spiritually.

4. Unrealistic Expectations from Leadership or Congregants

“We pay you… so why isn’t it perfect?” or worse, “It’s for God, so just make it happen.”

What Burnout Looks Like in Staff Culture

Cynicism in staff meetings.
Constant turnover in volunteers.
Last-minute scrambling every weekend.
Anxiety over minor mistakes.
Quiet quitting: physically present, emotionally checked out.

Sometimes, the fruitfulness of ministry isn’t spiritual growth—it’s performance anxiety masked by a professional smile.

And burnout doesn't just impact the staff. It shapes the entire culture of the church. Volunteers model what staff tolerate.

If your staff is exhausted, your body is limping.

Theological Truth: God Cares More About People Than Production

Jesus wasn’t in a hurry.

He healed one person at a time. He withdrew to quiet places. He valued relationship over results.

The early Church wasn’t built on programs. It was built on prayer, breaking bread, teaching, and shared life (Acts 2).

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we recommend ministry leaders and missionaries to embrace sabbath rhythms and build systems that serve people , not the other way around.

Because God doesn’t need your perfect Sunday plan—He desires a healthy servant.

Burnout Prevention for Church Staff

�� Audit Your Role

What are you doing that no one notices?
What’s draining you weekly?
What could be paused for a season?

�� Share the Load

Train a backup for every key task.
Invite volunteers into ownership, not just labor.

�� Get Honest with Leadership

Don’t spiritualize exhaustion. Tell the truth.
Ask for margin without apology.

��️ Use Check-Ins for Staff, Too

Our Monthly Ministry Check-In Sheet isn’t just for volunteers.
Use it with your staff every 30 days.

How Pastors Can Help Their Teams

Pastors, your staff needs you to:

Acknowledge unseen effort.
Allow imperfection.
Set priorities by modeling rest.
Equip your people, don’t just assign them.

Burnout prevention starts from the top.

If you’re too busy to care for your staff, it’s time to delegate more or do less.

What to Say Instead of “Great Job”

Affirm the soul , not just the skill:

“Your presence matters more than your performance.”
“You’re not just running slides. You’re helping people engage with Jesus.”
“You’ve done a lot. Let’s make space for you to rest.”

A Word to the Overwhelmed Ministry Spouse

Pastors' wives and spouses of staff often absorb the overflow of ministry stress.

They pick up pieces, make excuses, and suffer silently.

Let this be your permission slip:

It’s okay to say this pace is too much.
Your worth isn’t tied to your spouse’s role.
You’re allowed to rest, grieve, and speak up.

Your voice matters. Use it.

Church Staff: You’re Not Alone

You are not lazy. You’re not failing. You’re not unspiritual for needing rest.

You’re a human being with limits, created by a God who never asked you to trade your soul for a job title.

It’s okay to say:

“I can’t keep doing ministry this way.”

And then start building something better.

Tools from Cedar Creek Ministries

If you’re a staff leader, pastor, or missionary, download our:

✅ Monthly Ministry Check-In Sheet – use it with your team this month.
✅ Burnout Red Flag Checklist – quick indicators your staff might be quietly slipping.
✅ Sustainable Ministry Toolkit – coming soon!

Final Thoughts: Let the Church Be Human Again

Ministry is sacred. But it’s also human.

Jesus didn’t build a machine. He built a Body.

If your team is tired, don’t power through it. Pause. Assess. Repent where needed. And rebuild a rhythm of ministry that makes space for joy again.

Let Sunday be worship. Let work be worship. Let your people breathe.

Because people aren’t your greatest resource. They’re your greatest calling.

Coming Next in the Series: Serving Without Worship: When Ministry Pulls Families Apart

The Pastor Who Feeds Everyone: But Forgets to Rest the Sheep

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 16:22:06 GMT

The Church is meant to be a body, working together in harmony, not a handful of people carrying the entire weight on weary shoulders.

Part 1 of the “Many Hands, Heavy Loads” Series on Preventing Burnout in the Church

A Quiet Yes That Turned Into a Silent Burnout

He was the kind of man every pastor hopes for. Faithful. Cheerful. Always willing to step in.

He taught Sunday school. He ushered. He served on the setup team.

When the youth leader needed a break, he volunteered. When the church plant across town needed help launching, he was the first to load chairs into his truck.

He loved the Lord. He loved his church. But slowly, without anyone noticing, he stopped attending worship altogether.

Not because he fell away. But because he was always serving .

No one checked in. No one noticed until he quietly stepped down. And no one asked why.

This is not an isolated story. At Cedar Creek Ministries , we hear echoes of this burnout all the time, from ministry leaders , pastors' wives , missionaries , and volunteers alike. The Church is meant to be a body, working together in harmony, not a handful of people carrying the entire weight on weary shoulders.

This blog kicks off our 5-part Many Hands, Heavy Loads series. Today, we begin with the pastor's perspective : how good intentions and poor structures create invisible burdens, and how we can prevent burnout before it starts.

The Pastor's Dilemma: Feeding Without Resting

Most pastors aren’t intentionally overloading their people. In fact, they’re often just as exhausted themselves.

They see the need.
They feel the urgency.
And they default to the people who always say yes.

But that default, while understandable, can be deadly.

If a shepherd keeps asking the same sheep to pull the plow, eventually those sheep won’t have strength to graze.

Pastoral burnout and volunteer burnout are often two sides of the same unhealthy coin.

One pastor we spoke to said:

“We had so many holes to fill, and I knew he could do it. He was already there, already trusted. I didn’t realize he hadn’t actually been in a worship service in six months until his wife said something in passing. That broke me.”

Ministry leaders often carry their own exhaustion, quietly assuming others can handle it better than they can.

But whether you’re a pastor , church staff member , missionary team leader , or women’s ministry director , you are responsible for how you care for your team .

The Hidden Cost of Yes

A quiet yes is rarely questioned.

We don’t ask follow-ups. We don’t check capacity. We don’t ask about family impact. We just plug the gap and move on.

But here’s what that yes may be costing:

Worship: People can’t worship when they’re always working.
Family Health: Spouses and children are often stretched by the service demands.
Spiritual Growth: Constant serving can stall a person’s own walk with God.
Community: The one who’s always pouring out rarely gets poured into.

When burnout hits, it often comes with guilt:

"I can't believe I can't do this anymore." "Am I just not strong enough?" "Maybe I shouldn't be here."

But the real issue isn't weakness. It's a system that rewards availability over health .

Why This Happens: The Systemic Gaps in Church Leadership

1. No Central Communication

Ministry silos are real. The youth leader doesn’t know the men’s ministry leader is asking the same volunteer to help. No one is mapping who is serving where.

2. Assuming Silence = Capacity

If no one speaks up, we assume it’s fine. But most people won’t raise their hand to say, "I’m drowning."

3. No Margin Modelled

If pastors and staff never take breaks, no one else will either. If leaders preach rest but never show rest, no one believes it's truly valued.

4. Elevating Busyness as Faithfulness

We reward the overcommitted with titles, not time off. And we forget that Jesus often walked away from crowds to be with the Father.

A Better Way: Biblical Leadership that Prevents Burnout

1. Exodus 18: Moses and Jethro

Moses was trying to do everything himself. Jethro (his father-in-law) told him to choose capable men to help carry the load. Why?

"You will wear yourself out, and the people too."

2. Acts 6: Delegation in the Early Church

When food distribution became overwhelming, the apostles didn’t stretch themselves thinner. They appointed others so they could stay focused on prayer and the ministry of the Word.

3. Mark 6: Jesus Invites Rest

"Come away with Me to a quiet place and rest a while."

Biblical leadership doesn’t just equip others to serve; it invites others to rest .

Practical Tools for Burnout Prevention

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we’ve created tools to help churches prevent these patterns before they lead to crisis. Here are just a few ways to start:

�� Use Monthly Check-Ins

Download our Monthly Ministry Check-In Sheet to ask simple, soul-level questions: Are you spiritually refreshed? Is this role still life-giving? What do you need right now?

�� Map Your Volunteers

Make a spreadsheet or chart of who’s serving where. Highlight anyone in 2+ roles and ask them how they’re doing. Consider rotation models or rest seasons.

✉️ Send Rest Invitations, Not Just Role Requests

Reach out to your most faithful people and ask them to take a break before they need one. Give them permission and blessing.

��‍�� Offer Sabbatical Sundays

Create a schedule that ensures every volunteer gets to sit in worship regularly. Rotate backups. Train teens. Use small groups to support logistics.

A Word for Pastors' Wives and Missionaries

We see you.

You often serve without a title. You carry emotional loads, unspoken expectations, and unpaid responsibilities.

Burnout prevention must include you , too.

Ask:

Who checks on you?
Are you free to say no?
When was the last time you rested without guilt?

If the church culture doesn’t make space for you to just be , something is broken.

Let your leadership team know. Use this blog as a conversation starter.

You do not need to earn your belonging. Christ already secured it.

A Final Word to All Ministry Leaders

Whether you’re leading a church, a team, or a single Bible study:

God has not called you to burn out others to build His kingdom.

Faithful leadership isn’t about doing everything. It’s about building a sustainable, Spirit-filled culture where everyone has room to grow, rest, and thrive.

The man in the beginning of this story? He came back. But not before years of hurt, confusion, and silence.

Don’t wait that long.

Ask the questions now.

See the people behind the roles.

Start with one form, one conversation, one act of grace.

The Church will be stronger for it.

Download the Free Monthly Ministry Check-In Sheet

Ready to care for your team before crisis hits?

Download the tool thousands of pastors and ministry leaders are using to care for their people better.

�� Get the Check-In Sheet Here

Includes:

Printable formats
Reflection prompts for soul care
Bonus: burnout red flag checklist

Stay tuned for Blog 2: Behind the Bulletin: When Church Becomes Production Over People

Learn how church staff burnout contributes to system-wide exhaustion and how to re-center ministry on people, not performance.

Cedar Creek Ministries exists to equip, restore, and refresh leaders through mini-sabbaticals , biblical counseling , and publishing resources that help the Church thrive.

Join us at www.CedarCreekMinistries.org for more tools like this.

The Ministry of Showing Up When Time Is Short - Part 4

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 13:49:48 GMT

Just when we were tempted to panic, the door opened, literally.

Urgency without panic, how the Lord provides when there’s more to do than time to do it

There’s a moment in every project, every ministry effort, every calling, where the timeline feels tighter than the to-do list allows.

We were in that moment.

Guests were coming soon. Rooms needed to be finished. Details had to be handled. And time? It felt like it was evaporating faster than we could count it.

We were behind. And the pressure was rising.

And yet, somehow, God wasn’t panicked.

The Reality: We Were Behind

We knew what had to be done. We had the vision. The plans were drawn. The purpose was clear. But the clock was ticking, and our energy was wearing thin.

We hadn’t mismanaged the time. It was just that there wasn’t enough of it .

We were doing all we could, and it still wasn’t going to be enough.

That’s when the Lord reminded us of something simple and powerful:

We are not meant to do this alone.

God Multiplies Through People Who Show Up

Just when we were tempted to panic, the door opened, literally.

Skilled, joyful, ready-to-serve friends showed up.

They weren’t just warm bodies. They were multipliers .

With every person who stepped in, energy was restored. Focus returned. Tasks were divided. The to-do list started to shrink. Not because it got easier, but because God was doing what He always does:

Meeting the need with willing hearts.

What we lacked in time, God provided through people.

And not just any people, the right ones. The Body of Christ in action.

�� They didn’t just say “let me know if you need anything.”

They came. They worked. They gave.
They prayed. They stayed flexible.
They didn’t wait for a perfect moment, they acted in faith.

And because of them, rooms got finished. Beds got made. Projects wrapped up just in time.

And we got to see, once again, that God doesn’t work on our timelines. He works through His people.

This Is What the Body of Christ Was Designed For

Yes, we’re called to pray. To intercede. To uplift.

But we’re also called to act .

“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” – 1 John 3:18

We’re called to show up when time is short and energy is low.

To carry a burden. To bring a meal. To paint a wall.
To send a gift card. To send a kid to camp. To fill a need without waiting to be asked.

The Ministry of Showing Up Looks Like This:

�� Driving over even when your schedule is full
�� Jumping into a task even if you’ve never done it before
�� Bringing lunch so someone else doesn’t skip a meal
�� Clearing your weekend to make space for someone else’s calling
��‍♂️ Saying yes before you know all the details
�� Texting “I’m here, what do you need today?”

Every small act becomes a thread in the larger story of God’s provision.

To the One Who’s Hesitating…

You don’t have to wait for a perfect moment to offer help.
You don’t need to know all the details.
You just need to be willing.

And if you’re on the other side, the one who’s tired, behind, or overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to ask.

Asking isn’t weakness. It’s obedience.

It’s trusting that God often answers prayer through people.

�� What if every “Let me know if you need anything” turned into action?

Imagine the ripple effect.

Projects finished on time
Ministry leaders restored
Families relieved
Burnout prevented
Faith strengthened

God doesn’t just provide time. He provides people.
And when people show up, things move forward, spiritually and practically.

Closing Reflection: What If You Just… Showed Up?

You don’t have to be perfect.
You don’t have to have all the answers.
You just have to be present.

Because showing up is ministry.
It’s discipleship.
It’s obedience.
And it’s the tangible way we love one another, especially when the clock is ticking.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we’ve seen this time and time again.
God meets urgent needs through His people, those who show up, serve faithfully, and bring joy in the middle of pressure.

If you’ve ever wondered if your time matters...
If your effort is worth it...
If your presence changes things...

Let us be the ones to say: It does. It is. You do.

�� Show up. Trust God. Watch Him multiply what you bring.

Click here to read Part 3

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Cedar Creek Ministries is funded by Christians and churches who believe in the call to offer our leaders the double portion! If you feel the desire to make sure all those men and women called to serve God in missions and ministry have everything they need to personally rest, restore family relationships, and revive ministry vision, consider joining us in regular prayer and financial support !

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Working Side by Side Is Fellowship Too - Part 3

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 16:10:27 GMT

When you use your hands to serve a ministry leader, you’re not just painting a wall. You’re saying:

“I see you.”

Reframing Work Days as Holy Fellowship

When people think about “fellowship,” they often picture a circle of chairs, a potluck, maybe a Bible study with open Bibles and hot coffee. And those are beautiful, necessary moments.

But some of the deepest, richest fellowship we’ve experienced in ministry didn’t come from a formal gathering. It came from paint-streaked forearms and bent knees on dusty floors. From borrowed tools and shared sandwiches. From people who showed up, not just to pray for us, but to build with us.

They came to help. And left us better in every way.

Ministry Was Never Meant to Be Done Alone

Scripture never paints a picture of solo ministry. From the very beginning, God called His people to work together; to shoulder burdens, to rejoice in progress, and to be living reminders of His presence in one another’s lives.

“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9

When skilled hands arrive to fix a problem you’ve been staring at for weeks, when someone brings tools and tacos, when laughter breaks out in the middle of problem-solving... that’s not just help. That’s holy.

That’s fellowship.

The Weekend That Changed Everything

We had big projects looming. The kind that required time, strength, wisdom, and more hands than we had available. I’m sure Connie (my mother in law) had been praying, but honestly hadn’t expected to pick up help at the airport in less than a weeks notice.

These friends were gifted, skilled, and servant-hearted. They knew what they were doing, and they didn’t need constant direction. They just jumped in.

But what made it special wasn’t just the progress, it was the presence of people who were there to build both with us and for us .

They saw the mission of Cedar Creek Ministries not as our calling but their calling too .

�� Conversations While Working

As screws turned and boards were leveled, so were our hearts. We talked about God’s faithfulness. We asked hard questions about ministry and burnout. We laughed about past mistakes and shared future hopes.

We even let them rest while they were here. LOL!! The sweet couple had a day they went hiking and we even dragged them away for an evening at the lake with the kids.

We worked. We played. We rested.

We took the time, a bunch of go, go goers, to enjoy each other’s company, work our tails off and manage to practice what we preach…don’t forget to rest and refuel.

That wasn’t a distraction from the work.

That was the work.

The work that sustained us.

Why Serving Together Builds Stronger Bonds Than Meetings Ever Will

You can sit in a room with someone for years and never really know them.

But install tongue and groove all day or build a stair rail together? You’ll find out more about their character, humor, and heart than you ever could through formal conversation.

Shared work requires humility….

Laughter...

Problem-solving…

Flexibility…

And grace.

It builds trust because you’re doing something that matters together. There’s no posturing or performance, just shoulder-to-shoulder partnership.

�� This is what the Church should look like...

A group of believers who don’t wait for an invitation to serve
People who see practical needs as spiritual opportunities
Friends who build ministries like Nehemiah’s wall, with one hand on the work and the other in prayer

List: 10 Simple Ways to Serve a Ministry Family Practically

Not everyone is a contractor or a plumber but everyone has something to offer. Here are some easy, high-impact ways to bless a ministry family:

Fix a leaky sink – That one lingering chore can be a massive relief.
Bring a hot lunch – Working families often have to stop work to feed kiddos and that takes time. A warm meal is a huge gift.
Offer child care – Watch the kids while they work or rest. It’s sacred service.
Stay flexible – Projects shift. Weather changes. Be okay with the unexpected.
Show up with your tools – If you’ve got the skills, bring the gear.
Ask, “What’s still unfinished?” – Help them close the loop on lingering tasks.
Write a check – Can’t make it? Send support for materials or laborers.
Offer your specialty – Are you an organizer, cleaner, IT person, gardener? Use that.
Pray while you work – Turn your time into worship. Speak blessings over the space.
Follow up – Don’t disappear after one weekend. Keep asking how it’s going.

It’s Not Just Labor, It’s Love in Action

Sometimes, we reduce service to its outcome:

Did the wall get painted?
Did the toilet get fixed?
Did the boxes get moved?

But God is always looking at the heart behind the hands.

“Serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13

When you use your hands to serve a ministry leader, you’re not just painting a wall. You’re saying:

“I see you.”
“You’re not alone.”
“What you’re building is worth it.”
“I want to be part of it too.”

And that speaks louder than the nicest sermon.

Fellowship Doesn’t Always Look Like a Bible Study

It can look like mud on your boots and prayer on your lips.

It can look like cooking dinner while others lay flooring.

It can look like sweeping up sawdust while someone else lays tile in silence.

It can look like meaningful side conversations in between problem-solving and power tools.

In these moments, community deepens. Not because of what was said, but because of what was shared.

The time.

The task.

The vision.

A Picture of the Early Church

The believers in Acts didn’t just meet…they moved.

They shared what they had, opened their homes, broke bread, and carried burdens. Their love wasn’t theoretical; it was deeply practical.

“All the believers were together and had everything in common… They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” – Acts 2:44,46

What if you helped a ministry feel like that?

What if you became an Acts 2 friend to someone quietly shouldering a mission?

This Is What We Do at Cedar Creek Ministries

At CCM, we support leaders. Not just with words, but with action.

We offer a place for them to rest. We help restore their relationships. We revive their sense of calling. But we can't do it alone.

Every bunkbed built.
Every room cleaned.
Every fence repaired.
Every fridge stocked.

These are the quiet acts of fellowship that make this ministry possible.

�� We Need More Builders of Every Kind

You don’t have to preach, lead worship, or run a retreat to be part of a ministry.

You can:

Sweep a porch
Fix a faucet
Share a tool
Make a meal
Plant a flower bed
Or just sit with a tired soul and remind them why they started

If you do it with love…it counts.

If you do it for God’s glory…it echoes into eternity.

Final Encouragement: Say Yes to Showing Up

If you're wondering whether to offer help to a ministry family, just ask. Don’t wait for the perfect time or a formal invitation.

Your text, your hands, your time could be the answer to a prayer they haven’t even had time to pray.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace…” – 1 Peter 4:10

The Body of Christ is built not just on Sunday mornings, but on weekends with tool belts, midweek dinners dropped off in paper bags, and quiet acts of obedience that may never be seen, but are never forgotten.

Let’s reframe workdays as worship. Let’s view sweat as sacred. Let’s recognize the Spirit’s presence even in paint cans and power tools.

Because working side by side?

That’s fellowship too.

Click here to read Part 2

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

When the Phone Dings and It’s the Help You Didn’t Know You Could Ask For - Part 2

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 15:25:26 GMT

God doesn’t just meet our needs. He knows them before we even voice them.

The blessing of friends who offer their skills and time without needing to be asked

We were elbows-deep in to-do lists, both of us tired but trying not to show it. The apartment was only halfway finished, we were still living in the unfinished cabin that had it’s first booking in July and July was closing in fast. The kind of fast that feels like pressure in your chest. Ministry deadlines loomed, projects were piling up, and there simply weren’t enough hours in the day.

Then Amos’s phone lit up.

He held it up for me to read the message:

“Hey! What if we came next week Do you guys happen to need any help?”

He didn’t say a word, just looked at me with this wide-eyed, hopeful grin. And I felt it hit me: the help we didn’t even know how to ask for had just arrived. In a text message. Out of nowhere. Like God dropped it straight into our laps before we could even whisper a prayer.

I think I actually said, “Are you serious?”

Amos nodded, and we both laughed, not because it was funny, but because we’d been quietly overwhelmed and had just been plugging along hoping it would all get done. We were a little nervous, but God already knew how He was going to get it done.

And these weren’t just any friends. They were incredibly skilled, experienced, efficient, and full of joy. Exactly the kind of help we needed. If they had paused to second-guess themselves, or assumed, “They probably don’t need anything,” we would still be weeks behind.

But they didn’t overthink it. They reached out, they came, and they served like it was their calling, because it was.

Their willingness to come was obedience. Our willingness to say yes, even though it meant rushing to get the apartment livable so we could move out of cabin #2, just so they’d have a place to sleep, was obedience too.

That’s how God works in ministry. On both sides of the equation.

At Cedar Creek Ministries , we’ve seen this over and over again: people showing up with a heart to serve. People willing to give their time, skills, and sweat to build something eternal, even if it’s just painting a wall or fixing a leaky pipe. It's sacred work when it’s done unto the Lord.

God doesn’t just meet our needs. He knows them before we even voice them. And He moves through the willing hearts of His people to carry those burdens together.

Don’t Forget to Help:

�� You get to use the gifts God gave you : every skill, trade, and talent matters in the Kingdom.
�� You’re co-laboring with Christ : serving those who serve multiplies impact.
❤️ It’s an act of love : your willingness might be the answer to someone else’s unspoken prayer.
�� You grow spiritually : serving others deepens your dependence on God and increases your joy.
�� You become part of something lasting : helping build spaces of rest and restoration for ministry leaders is Kingdom work.

Don’t Forget to Accept Help:

�� It’s an act of humility and trust : letting others step in reminds you that you don’t have to carry everything alone .
�� It invites others into the mission : sharing the load expands the ministry’s reach.
�� It reflects the early Church : they shared, supported, and sacrificed together.
�� It opens space for God to work : He often meets our needs through people, not just miracles.
�� It blesses the giver : someone else gets to walk in obedience by helping you.

You never know what God is working out behind the scenes. And sometimes... it shows up in a simple message:

“We’re coming. Just tell us what you need.”

Click here to read Part 1

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Grateful for Freedom: Reflections on Independence Day and the Gift of Worship

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 21:01:50 GMT

From the very beginning, the right to worship freely has been woven into the fabric of American life.

As we gather with family and friends this Fourth of July beneath fireworks, around barbecue grills, or simply enjoying a quiet day of rest, it’s worth pausing to reflect on the incredible blessing we have as Americans: the freedom to worship God openly and without fear.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we are profoundly grateful to live in a country where ministry leaders can preach, teach, pray, and serve without government interference. This freedom shapes the heart of what we do and today, we want to pause, reflect, and give thanks.

A Brief Look Back: How Religious Freedom Shaped America

The Fourth of July marks the birth of the United States in 1776, when the Declaration of Independence was signed. However, what we often overlook is that many of the earliest settlers came to America seeking not just political freedom but religious freedom .

The Pilgrims (1620): Fled England to escape religious persecution and founded Plymouth Colony, seeking a place to worship freely.
The Puritans (1630s): Followed with the Massachusetts Bay Colony, desiring to build a “city upon a hill” that reflected biblical principles.
The First Great Awakening (1730s-1740s): A revival movement that swept across the colonies, laying spiritual groundwork that influenced the push toward independence.
The Bill of Rights (1791): Just years after the Revolution, the First Amendment was adopted, guaranteeing freedom of religion, speech, and assembly.

From the very beginning, the right to worship freely has been woven into the fabric of American life. While our country has always been imperfect, this foundational freedom remains a precious gift.

Why Religious Freedom Matters to Ministry Leaders

As ministry leaders, we know how easy it is to take this freedom for granted. But around the world, many believers risk imprisonment, violence, or even death simply for gathering in Jesus’ name.

Here’s why we believe it’s worth pausing this Independence Day to reflect on and give thanks for religious freedom:

It allows us to gather publicly without fear.
Churches, Bible studies, worship events, all possible because of this freedom.

It allows us to share the Gospel openly.
We can preach, teach, publish, and disciple without censorship.

It allows us to train and equip leaders.
The very work we do at Cedar Creek Ministries, equipping leaders with resources and encouragement, is only possible in a free society.

It reminds us to pray for those without it.
As we enjoy freedom, we are called to remember and pray for the persecuted church around the world.

Freedom and Responsibility: How We Steward This Gift

With great freedom comes great responsibility. (Thank you Uncle Ben) As Christians in America, we are not only free to worship, we are free to serve, love, and lead in ways that reflect Christ to a watching world.

Here are a few ways to steward this freedom well:

Pray boldly. Let’s use our freedom to pray in our homes, churches, and communities.
Lead faithfully. Whether you serve in pastoral ministry, nonprofit work, or lay leadership, let freedom fuel your courage and consistency.
Speak graciously. In a divided world, we have the freedom to speak life, hope, and truth.
Equip others. Our ability to write, publish, and share leadership resources is a gift, let’s use it to build up the body of Christ.

A Reflection from Scripture

Galatians 5:13 says, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”

True freedom isn’t about doing whatever we want; it’s about using our freedom to love and serve others. As ministry leaders, this is our high calling and on this Fourth of July, it’s a beautiful moment to realign our hearts with that purpose.

A Prayer of Gratitude

As you celebrate today, we invite you to pray with us:

Father, we thank You for the freedom we have in this country to worship, serve, and proclaim Your name. Help us to never take this gift for granted. Strengthen the hearts of leaders across this land, and pour out Your grace on those who serve You faithfully. We also lift up our brothers and sisters around the world who face persecution…be their strength and shield. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Looking Ahead: Equipping Leaders for the Journey

At Cedar Creek Ministries, our heart is to walk alongside leaders like you, helping you steward your calling with grace, courage, and rest.

We are excited to continue developing resources that help you:

Grow in leadership development
Find rest and renewal in ministry
Equip and strengthen your team

Our first book, The Ultimate Guide to Excellence Without Burnout , is just the beginning of this journey.

Explore it here: The Ultimate Guide to Excellence Without Burnout

Final Thoughts

As fireworks light the sky and flags wave across the nation, may we pause to remember that our ultimate freedom is found in Christ. And may we steward our earthly freedoms with gratitude, humility, and purpose.

From all of us at Cedar Creek Ministries

Happy Independence Day!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Real Needs, Real Help: The Kind of Ministry Partnership That Shows Up - Part 1

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 17:50:42 GMT

There’s a difference between offering help and showing up to help. The first is kind. The second is powerful.

There’s a phrase you hear often in ministry circles: "Let us know if you need anything." It’s kind. It’s well-meaning. But let’s be honest, when you’re exhausted, in the middle of transition, or just plain overwhelmed, even figuring out what you need can feel impossible.

That’s why what happened at Cedar Creek Ministries still brings tears to my eyes.

We had a guest family coming to stay, one we had never met before but were excited to host. Their cabin had been fully functional for a couple, and we had hosted many families there, by no, but we still weren’t settled into a place of our own. We were still trying to move out of an unfinished cabin and finish enough of our apartment to live in it. The to-do list felt never-ending, and energy was low.

Even so, our first guests were coming, expected and planned for and unbeknownst to us, ready to be a huge blessing.

They Saw the Need Before We Asked

Before we had a chance to explain all that was unfinished, they noticed. Between settling into their space and walking the property, they saw the behind-the-scenes needs without fanfare.

They asked thoughtful questions.
They noticed the gaps.
They offered their time and energy with hearts full of joy.

They didn’t need a checklist. They simply wanted to bless.

Before they left, they asked a question that deeply moved us: "What can we do to come back and help?" They weren’t responding to a public appeal. They were responding to the Holy Spirit.

That’s the kind of ministry partnership that restores your hope.

The Gift of Quiet Generosity

There’s a difference between offering help and showing up to help. The first is kind. The second is powerful.

We’ve experienced both over the years. But something unique happens when someone takes initiative without being asked:

It removes the burden of decision-making when you're already overwhelmed.
It communicates value: "We see you. We care."
It reminds you that the Kingdom is collaborative.

That weekend, their actions said, "You don't have to carry this alone." And that message sunk in deep.

Thank You to Those Who Quietly Serve

As we reflect on moments like this, we are overcome with gratitude for every one of you who supports Cedar Creek Ministries.

To those who pray, give, and serve:

Thank you for your faithful prayers that cover us in every season.
Thank you for your financial gifts that make retreats and resources possible.
Thank you for the tangible acts of service, from repairs to meals to cheerful help when no one asked.

Your support shows up in ways seen and unseen. You remind us that we are not alone, and that God uses His people powerfully.

Mutual Generosity Builds Ministry Bonds

We talk a lot about leadership in ministry. Vision. Strategy. Influence. But what about mutuality?

What about the kind of partnership that looks like:

Sharing tools
Lending time
Cooking together
Watching each other’s kids
Praying while hammering nails

When we stop viewing ministry as something we give from ourselves and start seeing it as something we live with others, something shifts.

That family became more than guests. They became co-laborers. Their generosity knit our hearts together in a way no planning meeting ever could.

Service as Fellowship, Not Obligation

Too often we treat service like a duty checklist. But Jesus never rushed past people to complete a task. He saw needs and responded with presence.

That weekend reminded us:

Serving is showing up.
Fellowship happens best in motion.
Real partnership doesn’t wait for a perfect moment.
Sometimes ministry looks like folding laundry or finishing drywall.

And that kind of shared life? It brings rest, even while working.

Encouragement for the Reader

If you’re in ministry and feeling the strain of unmet needs, please hear this:

You are not weak for needing help.
Real partnership is possible.
God often sends provision in the form of people.

If you’re someone who wants to help but doesn’t know how, consider:

Looking for what’s undone
Offering specific tasks ("Can I do X for you?")
Showing up willing to work, not just with good intentions
Remembering that help isn’t always heroic, sometimes it’s simple
Help is doing what is needed, not what you want to do.

This Is What Cedar Creek Ministries Is About

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we exist to support, strengthen, and refresh ministry families. But we don’t just believe in scheduled sabbaticals, we believe in Spirit-led service.

We believe in ministry that looks like:

Real families helping real families
Doing life shoulder to shoulder
Making space for others not just to rest, but to pour out joyfully when they can

Whether you come here needing help or wanting to give it, you are welcome.

We are building a place where the body of Christ looks like just that, a body. Many parts. Different gifts. One shared purpose.

And when we show up with hands ready and hearts open, God does more than meet needs.

He knits hearts.

He builds trust.

He multiplies joy.

From the bottom of our hearts: thank you.

Come see for yourself what real help can look like and the beautiful fellowship that comes with it.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Ministry with Children in Tow: It’s Not Slower, It’s Deeper

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 13:06:26 GMT

Ministry and family are not meant to be in conflict. In fact, when they are woven together with intention, they become a powerful reflection of the Gospel.

When you imagine pastoral ministry, what comes to mind? A sermon being preached? A couple being counseled? A board meeting? Now try picturing all that with a baby monitor on the table, a toddler on your hip, or teenagers throwing a football in the backyard.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we know what it means to do life and ministry with children in tow. It doesn’t mean everything moves slower. It means everything moves deeper .

Ministry and family are not meant to be in conflict. In fact, when they are woven together with intention, they become a powerful reflection of the Gospel.

The Mess and Beauty of It All

Let’s be honest: family-integrated ministry is messy. Schedules are unpredictable, toys end up under church pews, and someone always seems to need a snack right when the phone rings. But beneath the chaos is something sacred. It’s a lived-out testimony of grace. It’s showing your congregation that faith isn’t polished, it’s practiced.

Your children see you praying with people. They see you clean up after potlucks, show up when others need help, and serve even when you’re tired. And yes, they also see your imperfections. But even that is beautiful, because they see faith as real.

Inviting Your Kids Into Ministry (Without Burning Them Out)

The goal isn’t to make your children mini-ministers. The goal is to help them feel they belong.

Here are a few simple ways to invite them in without overwhelming them:

Let them greet people at the door with you.
Include them in service projects that are age-appropriate.
Involve them in prayer time.
Ask for their thoughts after a Sunday or event. Let them feel heard.
Don’t force them to be involved in everything, just invite.

When they participate by choice, they feel like contributors. When they’re pressured to perform, they feel like props. The difference matters.

Set Rhythms of Rest and Reconnection

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we offer something rare: unscripted rest for the entire family. Because ministry families need space to slow down together.

In your own routine, consider establishing:

Regular Sabbath rhythms where no one is "on."
Family dinners with intentional conversation.
Open-door time at home, not for guests, but for your own kids.
Seasonal check-ins where you ask, “How are we doing as a family?”

These moments are just as important as the sermons preached or the meetings led. They ground your children in the truth that they matter.

Your Children Are Not a Pause on Your Calling

Too often, parents in ministry feel torn: "I want to be present for my kids, but I also have this calling."

What if it’s not either/or?

What if the calling includes your kids? What if the lessons they learn watching you love, lead, and serve become the very tools they carry into adulthood?

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we believe that ministry done with children is not second-best. It’s holy. It’s formative. And yes, it’s refining.

The Fruit You Might Not See Right Away

Serving with your children in tow means planting seeds you may not see bloom for years. But here are some of the fruit that often comes:

Stronger family bonds rooted in shared purpose
Kids who grow up seeing service as a joy, not a burden
A generation who sees ministry as family-friendly, not family-fracturing
Spiritual maturity that comes from watching real-life discipleship daily

Why This Matters to You

Whether you’re a ministry family yourself or someone who supports them, here are a few takeaways:

Ministry families need your encouragement, not your expectations.
Your church culture can affirm kids as part of the calling, not a disruption.
If you're raising kids in ministry, give yourself grace. You’re modeling more than you know.
If you're a church member, consider how you can support the whole family, not just the pastor.

Come Be Refilled as a Family

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we don’t just offer a place to stay. We offer a space to reconnect. No programs. No pressure. Just room to breathe.

Here, your kids are welcome to be kids. Your marriage is invited to slow down. Your soul is safe to rest.

Because ministry with children isn’t slower. It’s deeper. And you don’t have to do it alone.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

When Our Kids Made Friends Before We Could Catch Up

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 12:17:02 GMT

Within minutes, it was as if these children had known each other for years.

At Cedar Creek Ministries, we often say that true rest is not on a schedule and sometimes, it walks in wearing muddy shoes and holding a wiffle ball bat. We had just opened our doors to host families in ministry when it happened: our first few guests arrived, and before they had fully finished unpacking or we had even settled into the rhythm of hospitality, their children were already off and running through the woods with ours.

There was no icebreaker needed. No "get-to-know-you" activity planned. Just laughter, shared snacks, and a spontaneous game of wiffle ball breaking out in the gravel driveway in front of the cabins. Within minutes, it was as if these children had known each other for years. And just like that, something beautiful unfolded before we adults could even catch up: fellowship had begun.

Children as the Bridge

As families in ministry, we often carry the weight of responsibilities that extend far beyond the walls of our own homes. Our days are full and spiritual battles can often drain more than just our energy. In all of that, our families, and particularly our children, often ride along in the back seat of ministry, adapting as best they can.

But what happens when we create space for families in ministry to come together? We saw the answer first-hand: connection, freedom, healing, and joy.

It was the children who paved the way. Through shared hikes, creek explorations, and storytelling around the fire pit, bonds were formed before the adults had even finished their first cups of coffee together. The ease with which children open their hearts, take risks, and say, "Hey, want to play?" becomes a picture of what the body of Christ could be like if we, too, led with openness and joy.

The Ease of Childlike Hospitality

Children don’t need perfect conditions. They don’t mind the unfinished landscaping, the patch of woods that still needs clearing, or the fact that dinner isn’t exactly on schedule. They just want to be together. And that desire to be together turns ordinary moments into ministry.

One afternoon, I looked out to see a group of children building a fort out of fallen branches. No adult had planned it. No curriculum had guided it. And yet, in their laughter and teamwork, I saw something sacred happening: genuine fellowship.

Their laughter echoed across the property as if to say, "This is what rest looks like, too."

Why Gathering as Families Matters

We believe at Cedar Creek Ministries that rest isn't just for the individual, it's for the whole family. That’s why we intentionally create space for families to experience refreshment together. We are one of the few ministries that offers unstructured rest to entire families serving in ministry.

Why does this matter?

Because ministry isn't a solo sport.

The spouse who holds the fort when late-night calls come in needs rest. The children who give up time with their parent for the sake of the church need joy. The family that sacrifices privacy, time, and sometimes financial security for the sake of the Gospel needs a place to breathe.

When we welcome the whole family, we affirm that they are not an afterthought in ministry, they are integral to it. Their health, connection, and joy matter.

Ministry Doesn’t Stop at the Pulpit

One of the most powerful things about that weekend was seeing how freely the kids ministered to one another without realizing it. A child who had been quiet at first slowly opened up as others invited her to play. Another taught my son a new card game, and they stayed out past bedtime giggling like they were old friends.

No structured program. No fancy schedule.

Just space to be.

We often think of ministry as something adults do…a sermon preached, a study led, a visit made. But these kids reminded me that ministry is also in the sharing of a snack, the creation of a game, and the invitation to belong. That is Kingdom work, too.

Shared Space, Shared Stories

As the kids became fast friends, the adults finally had time to connect too. We swapped stories, and lingered in conversations that weren’t rushed. What might have been an awkward first meeting was transformed into meaningful fellowship because our kids had already broken the ice.

There’s something so healing about watching your children thrive while you yourself are being refreshed. It creates a holy echo…what blesses one part of the family blesses all.

This is what we long to offer through Cedar Creek Ministries: a place where tired families can find room to be themselves again. Where kids can run free. Where parents can have slow mornings. Where no one is expected to perform, lead, or be "on."

We Need More Places Like This

Too many pastors and ministry leaders burn out silently because they don't know where to go or whom to trust. Too many families feel the weight of ministry without the joy. And too many children grow up seeing ministry only as the thing that took their parent away.

But what if they saw ministry differently? What if they had memories of a place where they made best friends in the woods, where mom and dad laughed more than they had in months, where no one asked for anything, only gave rest?

That's what Cedar Creek Ministries is about.

We believe in the power of unscripted rest. We believe that families in ministry need room to breathe. We believe that children are often the bridge God uses to bring people together.

If your family is in ministry and needs space to rest, restore, and revive, not just as individuals but as a family , we're here for you.

Come be part of a place where friendships bloom before the adults even finish unpacking.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

When Healing Doesn’t Erase the Hurt: Finding God in the Unthinkable

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 30 May 2025 13:40:53 GMT

God’s love doesn’t always look like the absence of pain, but the presence of grace.

Some weekends change you. Not with fanfare or fireworks, but with quiet, holy weight. We had the honor of hosting our very first guests at our ministry leaders retreat home, a place set apart for rest, restoration, and revival. They arrived as strangers, yet by the end of the weekend, they felt like family.

That’s one of the mysteries of the body of Christ: how quickly hearts can knit together, how deeply you can love people you’ve only just met. When Jesus is at the center, the connection is instant, and the love is real. You find yourself laughing with people who just hours ago were new to you and crying with them too. Because somehow, you recognize something familiar in one another’s pain, even when the stories aren’t the same.

I can’t tell you the full story of the family who came. It’s not mine to tell. What I can say is this: they have walked through the kind of loss most of us pray we never have to face. A moment that changed everything. A tragedy wrapped in layers of love, confusion, and grief. And yet, in their voices and their eyes, I saw something I didn’t expect…peace. Not the kind that comes from having answers, but the kind that comes only from knowing Jesus is still good, even when life is not.

They didn’t come with bitterness. They came with remembrance. With tears and tenderness and testimony. They’ve made it a rhythm of life to mark the days they can’t forget by stepping away to make space for the Lord to meet them in the grief. And He does. Not always with ease, but always with presence. Their visits echo what many pastors and ministry leaders seek on sabbatical: time and space to meet God again in the quiet.

One of the most humbling things I witnessed was their posture of forgiveness. If you’ve ever been hurt by someone you loved or trusted, you know how impossible forgiveness can feel. Multiply that by unimaginable pain and then watch what God can do. It’s not quick. It’s not painless. But it is possible. And only through Him.

I used to think forgiveness meant saying, “It’s okay.” But some things aren’t okay. Forgiveness, I’m learning, isn’t pretending the wound wasn’t deep. It’s entrusting the wound to the only One who can carry it fully. It’s letting Jesus be both judge and healer. It’s saying, “Lord, I can’t, but You can.” And He does.

Their story reminded me that redemption doesn’t erase suffering, it walks with it. God’s love doesn’t always look like the absence of pain, but the presence of grace. The kind of grace that gives you strength to wake up on the hardest anniversaries and lets you celebrate a birthday that won’t be celebrated on earth again. God can open your heart to love again, even when loving feels risky.

While these families were onsite, we prayed together, and I was undone by the sacredness of that moment. The porch felt full, not just of people, but of God’s mercy. It’s the kind of moment that lingers long after they drive away down our long dirt road. These are the kinds of sacred moments we pray for in our sabbatical retreat home for pastors and Christian leaders, where the Spirit brings rest to weary hearts and revives dry bones.

To those walking through grief right now, especially the kind you can’t explain, please know you’re not alone. God sees. He weeps with you. And He can hold what feels unholdable. You don’t have to fake joy to find hope. You can carry sorrow and still walk with the Savior.

And to the one struggling to forgive…take heart. Forgiveness doesn’t come from digging deep within yourself. It comes from surrendering to the One who forgave us first.

This weekend was a holy reminder: healing doesn’t erase the hurt, but it can redeem it. And love, real, Christ-centered love, can flourish even in the soil of sorrow.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:22–23

Tools for Grief and Forgiveness

If you’re walking through grief or wrestling with forgiveness, here are a few tools to help you move forward in faith:

Grief: Walking with God Through Loss

Lament honestly. God invites you to pour out your pain to Him (Psalm 62:8, Lamentations 2:19).
Anchor in truth. When emotions overwhelm, speak Scripture aloud, truth doesn’t change when feelings do (Psalm 119:50).
Grieve in community. God created the Church to help bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).
Make space to remember. Set intentional time to reflect and remember with the Lord He honors our memories.

Forgiveness: Not Forgetting, But Freeing

Understand forgiveness biblically. Forgiveness is not condoning sin or forgetting pain. It’s entrusting justice to God (Romans 12:19).
Pray for your heart to be softened. Even if you can’t forgive yet, ask God to begin the work in you (Ezekiel 36:26).
Let forgiveness be a process, not a performance. Forgiveness may begin with obedience before emotion.
Keep your eyes on Christ. Remember how much we’ve been forgiven (Ephesians 4:32, Colossians 3:13). Our ability to forgive flows from His mercy.

You are not alone. Jesus is near to the brokenhearted and mighty to heal.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Who is Biblical Counseling For? (Hint: It’s Not Just for ‘Struggling’ People)

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 23 May 2025 15:25:48 GMT

The truth is, every believer can benefit from biblical counseling.

Biblical Counseling is for Bible Believing Christians

Many people assume that biblical counseling is only for those in crisis, people dealing with addiction, marital breakdowns, or deep depression. While biblical counseling certainly helps in these situations, it is not just for those in extreme distress.

The truth is, every believer can benefit from biblical counseling. Whether you're facing a major life decision, struggling with stress, or simply seeking wisdom, biblical counseling offers God-centered guidance that applies to all areas of life.

Let’s explore who biblical counseling is really for and how it can help you grow, no matter where you are in your faith journey.

1. Biblical Counseling is for Those Facing Life’s Challenges

Life is full of difficult seasons, grief, job loss, relational struggles, or personal doubts. Many people turn to self-help books, social media advice, or secular counseling, but the Bible offers a different approach.

�� Scriptural Truth Over Temporary Solutions – Biblical counseling helps people apply God’s Word to their circumstances, offering lasting

transformation rather than short-term fixes.

�� Hope in Christ, Not Just Coping Mechanisms – Instead of just learning how to “manage” stress or pain, biblical counseling leads to

spiritual renewal and lasting hope (Romans 15:13).

�� Guidance from God’s Wisdom – When faced with uncertainty, biblical counseling provides clarity through Scripture (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Key Verse: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28

2. Biblical Counseling is for Christians Who Want to Grow Spiritually

You don’t have to be struggling to benefit from biblical counseling. Many believers seek counsel to deepen their faith, overcome spiritual stagnation, or grow in discipleship.

✔ Struggling with consistency in prayer or Bible study? A biblical counselor can provide accountability and encouragement.

✔ Feeling distant from God? Biblical counseling can help you renew your passion for Christ (Psalm 42:1-2).

✔ Seeking wisdom for personal or ministry decisions? Counseling rooted in Scripture provides direction based on God’s truth, not worldly

logic (James 1:5).

Key Verse: “The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.” — Psalm 119:130

3. Biblical Counseling is for Families, Marriages, and Parents

Relationships are complex and challenging, but they are also central to God’s design for our lives. Biblical counseling helps families navigate:

�� Marriage struggles – From communication issues to trust rebuilding, biblical counseling equips couples with God’s design for a thriving marriage (Ephesians 5:22-33).

��‍��‍�� Parenting challenges – Raising children in today’s world is not easy. Biblical counseling helps parents apply biblical discipline, wisdom, and love (Proverbs 22:6).

�� Family conflicts – Whether dealing with sibling rivalry or extended family tension, biblical counseling helps restore peace through biblical reconciliation (Colossians 3:13-14).

Key Verse: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” — Ephesians 4:2

4. Biblical Counseling is for Leaders, Pastors, and Ministry Workers

Many pastors, ministry leaders, and church workers pour into others but struggle to care for their own souls. Burnout, discouragement, and leadership stress are real challenges.

�� Avoiding burnout – Biblical counseling helps ministry leaders create healthy boundaries and rhythms of rest (Mark 6:31).

�� Seeking wisdom for difficult leadership decisions – Counseling provides biblical insight for navigating church and ministry challenges

(Titus 1:7-9).

�� Strengthening their personal faith – Leaders need counsel too! Even Moses had Jethro, and Paul had Barnabas (Exodus 18:17-23,

Acts 4:36-37).

Key Verse: “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” — Proverbs 11:14

5. Biblical Counseling is for Anyone Seeking Biblical Wisdom

Ultimately, biblical counseling is for anyone who wants to live according to God’s wisdom. The Bible has something to say about every aspect of life:

�� Career decisions – What does God’s Word say about work ethic, purpose, and calling? (Colossians 3:23)

�� Financial stewardship – How should we handle money in a way that honors God? (Proverbs 3:9-10)

��‍��‍�� Friendships and relationships – How do we maintain godly friendships and community? (Proverbs 27:17)

No matter what stage of life you’re in, biblical counseling can help you apply Scripture to everyday situations, deepening your faith and guiding your steps.

Final Thoughts: Biblical Counseling is for Everyone

Biblical counseling is not just for those in crisis, it’s for every believer who wants to grow, heal, and seek wisdom . Whether you’re navigating life’s challenges, pursuing spiritual maturity, strengthening your family, or leading in ministry, God’s Word has the answers you need.

�� Reflection Questions:

�� In what area of your life do you need biblical wisdom right now?
�� Have you considered seeking godly counsel, not just in struggles, but for growth?
�� How can you encourage others to seek biblical wisdom in their lives?

Coming Up Next:

This concludes our 4-part series on the benefits of biblical counseling! If you’ve found these insights helpful, share your thoughts in the comments or reach out for resources on biblical counseling in your area.

�� Have questions or want to learn more? Let’s connect in the comments below!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Common Myths About Biblical Counseling (And the Truth You Need to Know)

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 16 May 2025 14:30:46 GMT

While biblical counseling is grounded in Scripture, it is far more than just giving spiritual advice.

Clearing Up the Confusion

Biblical counseling is a powerful, Scripture-based approach to healing and personal growth, yet many misconceptions surround it. Some believe it’s just for extreme cases, while others assume it’s too simplistic or ignores real psychological struggles.

These myths prevent people from seeking the truth and transformation that God offers through His Word . In this post, we’ll debunk some of the most common misunderstandings about biblical counseling and uncover why it remains one of the most effective, God-honoring ways to seek help and healing.

Myth #1: Biblical Counseling is Just Giving Spiritual Advice

�� The Myth: Biblical counseling is just another way of saying, “Read your Bible more and pray about it.”

�� The Truth: While biblical counseling is grounded in Scripture, it is far more than just giving spiritual advice. It is a structured, Christ-

centered process designed to address deep-rooted heart issues and apply practical biblical wisdom to real struggles.

✔ Biblical counselors are trained to help individuals navigate emotional, relational, and spiritual challenges with wisdom rooted in God’s Word.

✔ Instead of surface-level encouragement, biblical counseling seeks true heart transformation (Romans 12:2).

✔ Prayer and Scripture are foundational but are combined with deep biblical guidance and accountability to promote lasting change.

Myth #2: It’s Only for People in Crisis

�� The Myth: Biblical counseling is just for people who are completely broken, depressed, or struggling with major life issues.

�� The Truth: While biblical counseling certainly helps those in deep crisis, it is for anyone who desires spiritual growth and biblical wisdom

for life’s challenges.

✔ Struggling with everyday stress? Biblical counseling can help .

✔ Looking for guidance in relationships or parenting? Biblical counseling provides practical, biblical strategies.

✔ Facing decision-making difficulties? Biblical counseling helps apply God’s wisdom to career, family, and faith choices.

You don’t have to wait for a crisis to seek godly counsel. Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”

Myth #3: Biblical Counseling Ignores Mental Health Issues

�� The Myth: Biblical counseling disregards mental health and tells people to just “pray harder.”

�� The Truth: Biblical counseling acknowledges the reality of anxiety, depression, and emotional struggles but addresses them from a biblical perspective.

✔ God cares deeply about mental and emotional health (Psalm 34:18).

✔ The Bible speaks to these issues and provides wisdom on anxiety (Philippians 4:6-7), fear (Isaiah 41:10), and sorrow (Psalm 42:11).

✔ Biblical counseling does not dismiss medical treatment, rather, it ensures that spiritual healing is not neglected in the process.

Myth #4: It’s Not as Effective as Professional Therapy

�� The Myth: Professional therapists have formal degrees, while biblical counselors just give opinions.

�� The Truth: Many biblical counselors have formal training, certifications, and extensive knowledge of counseling methods, but they use

Scripture as the foundation rather than secular psychology.

✔ Biblical counseling focuses on the heart rather than just behavior modification.

✔ It offers eternal solutions rather than temporary coping mechanisms.

✔ It is led by trained, experienced counselors who apply sound biblical doctrine to personal struggles.

While secular therapy may provide useful tools, it lacks the eternal, unchanging truth that only God’s Word provides.

Myth #5: Biblical Counseling is Judgmental or Legalistic

�� The Myth: Biblical counselors just tell people what they’re doing wrong and make them feel guilty.

�� The Truth: Biblical counseling is rooted in grace and restoration, not judgment.

✔ Counselors seek to guide , not condemn, just as Jesus did (John 8:10-11).

✔ Biblical counseling emphasizes God’s love , redemption, and healing.

✔ True transformation happens through the Holy Spirit’s work , not by following a set of rules.

Far from legalistic, biblical counseling encourages freedom in Christ (Galatians 5:1) and helps people walk in grace, truth, and obedience.

Final Thoughts: Why Biblical Counseling is a Powerful Tool

Now that we’ve debunked some of the biggest myths, it’s clear that biblical counseling is:

✔ Deeply rooted in Scripture and provides real, lasting change.

✔ Effective for anyone , not just those in crisis.

✔ Compassionate and grace-filled , focused on true heart transformation.

✔ A valuable resource for both spiritual growth and life’s challenges.

If you’ve been hesitant about biblical counseling due to misconceptions, consider seeking godly counsel from someone trained in Scripture-based guidance.

�� “Plans are established by counsel; by wise guidance wage war.” — Proverbs 20:18

Coming Up Next in This Series:

Stay tuned for the next post: “Who is Biblical Counseling For? (Hint: It’s Not Just for ‘Struggling’ People) ” where we’ll explore how everyone, from new believers to seasoned Christians, can benefit from biblical wisdom.

�� Have questions or experiences with biblical counseling? Share in the comments below!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

How the Bible Speaks to Every Area of Life: The Authority of Scripture in Counseling

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 09 May 2025 13:48:54 GMT

The Bible is not just a book of rules, it is God’s revelation to mankind.

Can the Bible Really Help with Modern Problems?

Many people ask, “Can the Bible really help with today’s struggles?” In a world filled with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and relational conflict, it can be tempting to think that Scripture is outdated or insufficient for addressing modern challenges.

But here’s the truth: God’s Word is alive, active, and speaks to every area of life (Hebrews 4:12). It is not just an old religious text, it is the foundation for true healing and wisdom.

In this post, we’ll explore how the authority of Scripture makes biblical counseling uniquely powerful and why God’s Word provides real, lasting solutions for life’s struggles.

The Bible as Our Ultimate Source of Wisdom

The Bible is not just a book of rules, it is God’s revelation to mankind. It gives us guidance, comfort, and direction in every season of life.

1. The Bible is Sufficient for Life and Godliness

“His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence.” — 2 Peter 1:3

This verse reminds us that God has already given us everything we need to navigate life’s challenges. His Word is enough .

While secular psychology often changes its theories and approaches, God’s truth remains constant and reliable.

2. God’s Word Provides Clarity in Confusion

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105

When we face difficulties, the world offers mixed messages, but God’s Word provides clarity . Biblical counseling helps people cut through cultural noise and find direction rooted in truth.

3. The Bible Exposes the Root of the Problem

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” — Hebrews 4:12

While secular therapy often focuses on changing behavior, biblical counseling goes deeper to address the heart. True healing starts with understanding the spiritual condition behind our struggles.

How the Bible Speaks to Modern Issues

Some believe that Scripture doesn’t address today’s challenges, but God’s wisdom applies to every situation. Here’s how biblical counseling uses God’s Word to address real-life struggles:

1. Anxiety & Worry

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” — Philippians 4:6

Biblical counseling helps individuals replace fear with faith by trusting in God’s sovereignty and provision.

2. Depression & Hopelessness

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

Secular therapy may offer coping mechanisms, but biblical counseling points to Christ as the true source of comfort and healing.

3. Addiction & Sin Struggles

“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” — 1 Corinthians 10:13

Rather than just managing behaviors, biblical counseling focuses on renewing the mind and walking in obedience to Christ.

4. Marriage & Relationships

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32

God’s Word offers clear principles for communication, conflict resolution, and restoring relationships.

Why Secular Psychology Falls Short

While secular psychology can provide insights, it lacks eternal truth and is based on ever-changing human theories.

Key Differences Between Secular Therapy and Biblical Counseling:

Biblical Counseling

Rooted in Scripture and God’s unchanging truth

Focuses on spiritual transformation

Seeks to glorify God , not self

Uses prayer, discipleship, and community for healing

Secular Therapy

Based on human theories that evolve over time

Focuses on behavior modification

Encourages self-reliance and self-fulfillment

Encourages independence and self-discovery

While psychology can observe human behavior, only the Bible can explain the true condition of the heart and offer real solutions.

Applying Scripture to Your Life Through Biblical Counseling

The beauty of biblical counseling is that it connects real struggles to real solutions in God’s Word. Here’s how you can apply Scripture to your life today:

✔ Meditate on God’s Word Daily – Replace lies with truth (Romans 12:2).
✔ Seek Wise, Biblical Counsel – Don’t navigate struggles alone (Proverbs 11:14).
✔ Pray for Wisdom and Strength – God is our ultimate helper (James 1:5).
✔ Trust God’s Plan for Healing – He is faithful to restore (Psalm 147:3).

Final Thoughts: The Bible is More Than Enough

Biblical counseling isn’t about offering human opinions, it’s about leading people back to the wisdom of God . His Word is living, active, and powerful enough to transform hearts and lives.

If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, or broken relationships, biblical counseling can help you find hope and healing rooted in God’s eternal truth.

Reflection Questions:

�� What is one area of your life where you need God’s wisdom today?
�� How has Scripture spoken to you in times of struggle?
�� Are you relying on the world’s advice or on God’s truth for guidance?

Coming Up Next in This Series:

Stay tuned for the next post: “Common Myths About Biblical Counseling (And the Truth You Need to Know).” We’ll debunk misconceptions and reveal why biblical counseling is a powerful tool for lasting transformation.

�� Have questions or need biblical counseling? Let’s talk in the comments below!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Missed the Free Days? Here’s How You Can Still Help Spread the Message of Ultimate Guide to Achieving Excellence Without Burnout

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Wed, 07 May 2025 21:40:14 GMT

This isn’t just a book launch, it’s a movement to help leaders everywhere experience a healthier, more faithful way of serving.

As we wrapped up launch week, our team took a moment to reflect on everything that’s happened, and honestly, we were blown away.

One of the most meaningful parts of this process wasn’t just watching the book go live on Amazon or seeing early reviews roll in; it was watching our own team change. As we read, edited, and worked through The Ultimate Guide to Achieving Excellence Without Burnout for the Christian Leader together, we found ourselves holding each other accountable to live out what we were promoting.

We reminded each other to take breaks, delegate tasks, and resist the temptation to just “push through.” We even laughed about using an AI tool as a scribe to free up time so we could spend more time resting and being present with our families.

And through it all, we were reminded that this isn’t just a book launch, it’s a movement to help leaders everywhere experience a healthier, more faithful way of serving.

The free promo has ended, but the mission isn’t over

If you missed the free promo days last week, we want to first say: thank you for being here now.

The ebook and paperback are both still available on Amazon, and your purchase, review, and recommendation still matter more than you know.

�� Buy your copy of the book here

Why reviews still matter (even after launch week)

Sometimes people think, Well, the launch is over… it’s too late to make an impact.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

Here’s why your review still matters:

Amazon’s algorithms continue recommending books with strong reviews
Readers often check the most recent reviews to decide whether to purchase
Bookstores, churches, and ministry leaders still watch how the book is being received
Authors and publishers use ongoing feedback to shape future resources

In short, your review helps keep the message moving long after the launch week excitement has passed.

Who this book is written for

The Ultimate Guide to Achieving Excellence Without Burnout for the Christian Leader is for:

Pastors, church staff, and ministry directors
Missionaries and outreach leaders
Ministry spouses supporting behind the scenes
Volunteers, elders, deacons, and lay leaders
Anyone passionate about serving without losing sight of family, health, or calling

Inside, readers will discover:

Practical strategies for managing ministry stress
Tools for delegation and working with teams
Ways to set realistic expectations in leadership
Tips on using modern tools and technology to free up time
Encouragement to build sustainable habits of rest and renewa l

What to include in your review

Not sure what to write? Keep it simple. Here are a few ideas:

What was most helpful or meaningful for you?
Who would you recommend this book to?
How has it challenged or encouraged you?

Examples:

✅ “Even though I missed the free days, this book was worth every penny. It helped me rethink how I lead and serve.”
✅ “This is the book I didn’t know I needed. I’m already seeing changes in how I handle ministry stress.”
✅ “A must-read for pastors, spouses, and anyone in leadership. Loved the practical focus on delegation and using today’s tools wisely.”

Other ways you can help

Even if you missed the promo, you can still help spread this important message:

✅ Buy a copy for yourself or as a gift for a ministry leader you care about
✅ Leave an honest review on Amazon just a few sentences can make a big difference
✅ Post about the book on social media and tag @CedarCreekMinistries
✅ Share the book link with your pastor , small group leader, or ministry team
✅ Follow us on Instagram for highlights, interviews, and future updates

�� Follow us on Instagram (@CedarCreekMinistries)

To our ARC readers and early supporters, thank you

We want to take a moment to thank every ARC reader and early supporter who helped launch this project.

Your reviews, shares, and encouragement have been an incredible gift. And we’re excited to tell you that you’ll be the first to hear about our next book and get first dibs on the next ARC team invitation. Stay tuned!

Final encouragement

You may have missed the free promo window, but it’s never too late to help make a difference.

Your purchase, review, or simple word-of-mouth recommendation could be what helps:

A burned-out leader find new hope
A ministry team start healthier practices
A church begin a conversation about realistic expectations
A family recover time together and rediscover joy

�� Buy your copy today
�� Leave your review on Amazon
�� Follow us on Instagram for updates

Thank you for helping us continue this mission to support Christian leaders everywhere. Together, we are helping leaders not just survive but thrive.

It’s Launch Day! Why Your Review of Ultimate Guide to Achieving Excellence Without Burnout Matters Now More Than Ever

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Wed, 07 May 2025 21:40:11 GMT

While the core challenges of ministry haven’t changed, we do have new ways to work more effectively

This past weekend, we sat down for a live interview with someone who not only worked behind the scenes on this book but also grew up as a PK, a pastor’s kid with a front-row seat to both the beauty and the weight of ministry life.

Between laughs and reflections, we started talking about the opportunities we have today that previous generations didn’t, especially when it comes to tools and technology. With a grin, we joked about how we used an AI tool as our “scribe” to help us with the writing process. It saved hours of typing and organizing so we could spend more time doing the very thing this book encourages: being with our families and making space for rest.

It reminded all of us that while the core challenges of ministry haven’t changed, we do have new ways to work more effectively, and more faithfully, if we’re willing to embrace them.

Today’s the day: The free promo is live!

We’re thrilled to share that The Ultimate Guide to Achieving Excellence Without Burnout for the Christian Leader is FREE today and tomorrow (Friday and Saturday, May 9–10) on Amazon.

�� Download your free ebook here

Even if you received an advanced reader copy (ARC), we encourage you to grab your free copy during the promo days. This helps connect your review as a verified purchase, which significantly increases visibility for others who might benefit from the book.

Why your review is more powerful than you think

When a book is newly launched, those first few reviews are more than helpful, they’re essential. Why?

Because Amazon’s algorithm uses early reviews to decide whether or not to:

Recommend the book to others browsing similar topics
Place it higher in category rankings
Feature it more prominently in search results
Highlight it for readers who have read similar books

Your honest review helps us reach more pastors, leaders, and families who may be discouraged, overwhelmed, or just plain tired. It’s not just a review, it’s part of the message.

What this book is really about

We wrote this book for Christian leaders at every level, not just pastors or full-time ministry professionals. This is for:

Ministry spouses juggling family and church commitments
Missionaries far from home with limited support
Elders, deacons, and lay leaders who feel stretched
Volunteers serving faithfully but feeling unappreciated
Anyone in church leadership who loves serving but is starting to run low on joy, health, or clarity

Inside, you’ll find practical guidance on how to:

Manage ministry stress without guilt
Delegate effectively to avoid carrying it all
Set healthy expectations in leadership
Use modern tools and strategies to serve more faithfully, not harder

Most of all, it’s a reminder that God hasn’t called you to carry more than you were made to hold.

What to write in your review (don’t overthink it)

If the idea of writing a review feels overwhelming, take a deep breath. Your review doesn’t need to sound like a professional book critic, it just needs to be sincere.

Here are three simple prompts:

What did you find helpful, challenging, or encouraging?
Who would you recommend this book to?
How did it shift your thinking about leadership or ministry?

Examples:

✅ “This book challenged the way I’ve been operating in ministry. I’m realizing I don’t have to do everything myself.”
✅ “Practical, gospel-centered, and refreshingly honest. I wish I had read this ten years ago.”
✅ “Loved the insights on delegation and using today’s tools to simplify ministry work.”

Why we ask ARC readers to download it again (yes, even if you already read it)

If you're on our ARC team, first of all, thank you! You’ve played a huge part in launching this book already.

But even if you've read the early version, we still ask that you "buy" the ebook during the free days. Why?

It allows Amazon to mark your review as a verified purchase, giving it more visibility
It boosts the download count, pushing the book higher in Amazon’s rankings
It makes it easier for others to find the book during the promo window
And it only takes one click, no cost, no hassle

Real impact: What your review sets in motion

Here’s what happens when you leave a review:

A discouraged leader scrolling late at night finds hope
A church elder recommends it to the staff team
A women’s ministry leader uses it for a book discussion
A young couple planting a church starts with healthier patterns

What feels like a small act on your part could be the very nudge someone else needs to keep going.

Five ways to support the book launch today

If you’re excited about the message of this book, here are five quick ways you can help:

✅ Download the ebook today, it’s free
✅ Leave a short review on Amazon
✅ Share the book link with a friend or church leader
✅ Post about it on social media and tag @CedarCreekMinistries
✅ Follow us on Instagram for updates and author interviews

�� Follow us on Instagram (@CedarCreekMinistries)

Every share, post, and mention helps amplify this message to the people who need it most.

To our ARC readers: You’re the reason this is happening

You’re not just early readers, you’re co-laborers in this message. You helped shape the tone, refine the message, and now you’re helping launch it into the world.

And we want you to know something important: You’ll be the first to hear about our next book, and get first dibs on joining the ARC team when the time comes.

Your voice matters more than you know.

One final encouragement

You may never know the full impact of your review. You may never meet the pastor who reads it in tears after a long Sunday or the missionary who finally feels seen.

But your review could be what gets the book into their hands.

�� Download your free ebook here
�� Leave your review today
�� Follow us on Instagram for updates and highlights

Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re equipping leaders not just to survive ministry, but to thrive in it for the long haul.

Why Your Book Review Counts More Than You Think (and Helps Christian Leaders Thrive)

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Wed, 07 May 2025 21:40:08 GMT

Books can change lives, but only if they get into the right hands.

Not long ago, a ministry leader I know walked up to me at an event with a grin on his face and said, half-joking, “I read the book… hated it.”

I raised an eyebrow, and he laughed and continued, “I hated being convicted to rest.”

We both laughed, and then we stood there, coffee in hand, talking honestly about how hard it is for leaders to slow down, let alone embrace rest without guilt. That conversation turned into a lively discussion about why Christian leaders need to combine biblical principles with modern tools, the kind that help them delegate, work smarter, and avoid burning out.

That’s when it hit me again: books can change lives, but only if they get into the right hands. And that’s where you, the reader, play an essential role.

Why reviews matter more than you realize

When you post a review on Amazon, you might think you’re just sharing your opinion. But behind the scenes, that review is doing heavy lifting.

Here’s how:

Reviews trigger Amazon’s algorithm to recommend the book to more people
Reviews build trust for new readers who don’t know the author or ministry
Reviews show publishers and bookstores that the book has momentum
Reviews encourage the author to keep writing and equipping more Christian leaders

Without reviews, even the most impactful, biblically grounded books can fade into the background where struggling pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders may never discover them.

How your review directly helps Christian leaders

Our new release, The Ultimate Guide to Achieving Excellence Without Burnout for the Christian Leader , isn’t just another leadership book. It’s a lifeline for leaders who are:

Worn out by endless tasks and stretched-thin teams
Struggling to balance ministry, family, and personal health
Desperate to serve with excellence, but without sacrificing joy or calling

By leaving a review, you help us place this message in front of the very people it was written to serve. You become part of the mission to help Christian leaders thrive.

What makes a good review? (Spoiler: It’s easier than you think)

Many people hesitate to leave reviews because they don’t know what to write. Here’s the good news a great review doesn’t need to be long or formal.

A helpful review can simply cover:

What you loved or learned from the book
Who you think would benefit from reading it
How it impacted your life or leadership

Here are a few examples to get you started:

✅ “This book challenged me to rethink how I lead. Every pastor needs this reminder!”
✅ “Practical, biblical, and convicting in the best way. Loved the chapter on delegation and using modern tools.”
✅ “A timely and necessary book for anyone in ministry. I hated being reminded to rest… but I needed it!”

Why “verified purchase” matters on Amazon

Even if you received an advanced reader copy (ARC), we ask that you download the free ebook during the promo days . Why?

Because when you review as a verified purchaser, Amazon boosts the book’s visibility and credibility. That little “verified purchase” tag can make the difference between a review that gets buried and one that moves the book up the charts.

By simply “buying” the ebook during the free promo, you multiply the impact of your review.

Your review’s ripple effect: Beyond Amazon

Your review has influence beyond just an Amazon page.

Here’s where else your voice matters:

Libraries and bookstores often check Amazon momentum before deciding what to stock
Media, podcast hosts, and influencers look at reader responses when choosing guest authors
Church leaders and ministry networks notice when a book is getting attention
Future books and resources often hinge on the strength of early reader reviews

In short, your words today help shape what conversations and resources gain traction tomorrow.

What makes this book worth reviewing?

The Ultimate Guide to Achieving Excellence Without Burnout for the Christian Leader stands apart because it:

Combines biblically grounded wisdom with practical leadership tools
Tackles the root causes of ministry burnout with honesty and grace
Offers real-life strategies for managing ministry stress and delegating effectively
Helps leaders embrace rest as part of faithfulness, not failure

Whether you’re a pastor, ministry spouse, missionary, or volunteer, this book equips you to lead with clarity, joy, and strength without burning out.

Simple ways to help spread the message

Ready to help?

✅ Download the free ebook on Amazon during the promo days
✅ Post your honest review, just a few sentences is plenty
✅ Share on social media and tag @CedarCreekMinistries
✅ Tell a friend or ministry leader who might need this encouragement

We also invite you to follow us on Instagram for highlights, author interviews, and ministry tips.

A special thank you to our ARC readers

To our ARC team, thank you.

You’re the heartbeat of this launch. Your feedback, honesty (even when it’s “I hated being convicted to rest!”), and reviews are what help this book reach the people who need it. And we’re thrilled to share that you’ll get first dibs when our next book is ready for the ARC team.

Together, we are helping more leaders experience the freedom to serve with excellence without burnout.

Final encouragement: Your review matters

It’s easy to wonder if your little review will make a difference. Here’s the truth:

Your review may be the reason:

A discouraged pastor downloads the book
A ministry couple finds hope on the edge of burnout
A new leader starts out with a healthy, biblical approach to leadership

So today, take a minute to share your thoughts. You may never know the full ripple effect of your words, but God does.

Get the book and leave your review today

�� Download your free ebook here
�� Follow us on Instagram

Thank you for being part of this mission to encourage and equip Christian leaders!

What is Biblical Counseling? A Biblical Perspective on True Healing

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 02 May 2025 14:35:06 GMT

It is not just another form of therapy; it is an approach to healing that is deeply rooted in Scripture, discipleship, and spiritual transformation .

Why Biblical Counseling Matters

Life is filled with struggles—emotional pain, broken relationships, fear, anxiety, and spiritual confusion. When challenges arise, many believers seek guidance through self-help books, secular therapy, or well-meaning advice from friends. But as Christians, we must ask: What does God’s Word say about healing, restoration, and wise counsel?

This is where biblical counseling comes in. It is not just another form of therapy; it is an approach to healing that is deeply rooted in Scripture, discipleship, and spiritual transformation. Unlike secular counseling, which often focuses on behavior modification or self-empowerment, biblical counseling seeks to address the heart and soul —helping believers grow in Christ while navigating life’s difficulties.

In this post, we’ll explore what biblical counseling is, why it matters, and how it differs from secular therapy.

What is Biblical Counseling?

Biblical counseling is a Christ-centered, Scripture-driven approach to personal and spiritual struggles. It is based on the belief that God’s Word is sufficient to guide believers in every area of life (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Rather than relying on human wisdom or psychological theories, biblical counseling helps individuals:

✔ Identify root heart issues rather than just external behaviors.

✔ Apply God’s truth to their personal struggles.

✔ Grow spiritually by deepening their faith in Christ

✔ Find true healing through repentance, forgiveness, and biblical wisdom.

A Biblical Foundation for Counseling

The Bible is clear that seeking wise counsel is valuable:

“Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.” — Proverbs 15:22

“The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul.” — Psalm 19:7

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God[ b ] may be complete, equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

These verses emphasize that God provides wisdom, instruction, and renewal through His Word and through those who are equipped to counsel others biblically.

How Does Biblical Counseling Differ from Secular Therapy?

Many people wonder: How is biblical counseling different from secular counseling? While both may address issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationships, they approach healing from completely different worldviews.

Biblical Counseling

Rooted in Scripture as the authority for truth and healing.

Seeks to address the heart and spiritual condition, not just behavior.

Points people to Christ as the ultimate healer and source of transformation.

Uses the local church as a support system for growth and accountability.

Centers on glorifying God through obedience and faith.

Secular Therapy

Rooted in humanistic psychology and personal experience.

Focuses on behavior modification and coping techniques.

Encourages self-reliance and personal empowerment.

Emphasizes individual solutions apart from biblical community.

Focuses on self-improvement and personal happiness.

While secular counseling may provide temporary relief or coping mechanisms, only biblical counseling offers the eternal hope of transformation through Christ.

The Role of Jesus as the Wonderful Counselor

As Christians, we don’t just need good advice—we need divine wisdom. This is why Jesus is called the Wonderful Counselor (Isaiah 9:6).

Throughout His ministry, Jesus counseled people with truth, grace, and love :

✔ He called people to repentance and faith (Mark 1:15).

✔ He provided comfort and healing to the brokenhearted (Matthew 11:28-30).

✔ He offered wisdom and instruction to those seeking guidance (John 14:6).

Biblical counseling follows His model , providing guidance that does not compromise on truth but also extends grace and restoration to the hurting.

Who is Biblical Counseling For?

One of the greatest misconceptions is that biblical counseling is only for those in crisis . In reality, every believer can benefit from wise, godly counsel.

Here’s how biblical counseling can help:

✔ For those struggling with sin – Overcoming patterns of addiction, pride, anger, or unforgiveness.

✔ For those facing life challenges – Navigating grief, broken relationships, job loss, or stress.

✔ For those battling anxiety and depression – Finding comfort in God’s promises and biblical truth.

✔ For spiritual growth – Deepening one’s faith and learning how to apply Scripture to daily life.

What to Expect in Biblical Counseling

If you are considering biblical counseling, here’s what you can expect:

1️⃣ A Gospel-Centered Approach – Every issue is addressed through the lens of God’s grace and redemption .

2️⃣ Prayer and Scripture – Sessions are rooted in prayer, and God’s Word is the ultimate authority.

3️⃣ Heart Change, Not Just Behavior Change – The focus is on transforming your heart rather than just fixing symptoms.

4️⃣ Accountability and Discipleship – Biblical counseling encourages community and long-term discipleship.

Unlike secular counseling, which often ends when sessions are over, biblical counseling fosters lifelong spiritual growth within the church community.

Final Thoughts: Why Biblical Counseling Matters

Biblical counseling isn’t just another form of therapy—it is a God-centered approach to life’s deepest struggles. Through Scripture, prayer, and discipleship , it provides real answers and lasting hope.

If you or someone you know is seeking healing, direction, or spiritual renewal , biblical counseling can be a powerful tool for transformation.

Reflection Questions:

�� Have you ever considered biblical counseling as a way to grow spiritually?
�� How does knowing that Jesus is the Wonderful Counselor impact your struggles today?
�� What areas of your life could benefit from biblically rooted wisdom and guidance?

Coming Up Next in This Series:

Stay tuned for the next post: “How the Bible Speaks to Every Area of Life: The Authority of Scripture in Counseling” where we’ll explore how God’s Word provides answers for modern struggles like anxiety, trauma, and relationships.

�� Have questions or need biblical counseling? Let’s talk in the comments below!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Practical Steps to Avoid Burnout and Lead Effectively

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 13:57:41 GMT

Burnout doesn’t happen overnight—it builds over time.

Why Just “Hanging On” Isn’t Enough

Ministry is demanding. The long hours, emotional burdens, and constant expectations can take their toll. You might be telling yourself, “I just need to push through a little longer,” but deep down, you know something has to change.

The truth? Burnout doesn’t happen overnight—it builds over time. The good news? You can take practical steps right now to lead effectively without running yourself into the ground.

In this post, we’ll cover real-life strategies you can implement today to avoid burnout and keep leading with strength.

Step 1: Recognize the Warning Signs

Burnout isn’t just being tired—it’s a state of physical, emotional, and spiritual depletion. Watch for these warning signs:

Constant fatigue and low energy
Loss of passion for ministry
Increased irritability or frustration
Feeling disconnected from God, your family, or your church
A sense of overwhelm that never seems to go away

If any of these resonate with you, now is the time to take action before burnout fully sets in.

Step 2: Set Priorities Without Guilt

Many leaders struggle to say no, believing that every need is theirs to meet. But Jesus Himself had priorities—He rested, withdrew, and didn’t heal everyone in every town. If He needed rest, so do you.

Practical ways to create priorities:

✔ Define work hours and stick to them.

✔ Schedule rest and personal time just like you schedule meetings.

✔ Communicate limits clearly—your family, team, and congregation will respect them if you lead by example.

Step 3: Delegate Effectively

Too many ministry leaders carry every burden alone. But delegation isn’t just helpful—it’s biblical.

✔ Moses delegated leadership tasks to trusted leaders (Exodus 18:17-23).

✔ Jesus empowered the disciples to share the work of ministry (Luke 10:1-9).

✔ The early church appointed deacons to help manage responsibilities (Acts 6:1-7).

Practical delegation steps:

Identify what only you can do, and delegate the rest.
Train capable leaders and give them real responsibility.
Trust your team—don’t micromanage.

Step 4: Prioritize Your Spiritual Renewal

Ministry is about pouring into others, but if you’re empty, you have nothing left to give. Make spiritual renewal a priority:

✔ Daily prayer and time in the Word—not just sermon prep!

✔ Surround yourself with trusted mentors or peers who encourage you.

✔ Schedule retreats or quiet days to reset and refocus.

Step 5: Create a Sustainable Leadership Culture

Burnout isn’t just a personal issue—it’s a cultural issue. If your church or ministry expects constant overwork, it’s time for a shift.

✔ Teach healthy rhythms to your team.

✔ Lead by example—prioritize your own well-being.

✔ Encourage rest and renewal for everyone under your leadership.

When healthy leadership becomes the norm, burnout becomes the exception.

Want to Go Deeper? Get Early Access to Our New Book!

If you’re serious about avoiding burnout and leading with clarity, energy, and impact, we have something for you!

�� Our upcoming book, The Ultimate Guide to Excellence Without Burnout , is full of biblically grounded, practical strategies to help you sustain long-term, healthy leadership.

Want a free early copy?

Cedar Creek Ministries is offering an exclusive early PDF version of the book before its official release to a limited number of readers in exchange for an honest review.

�� Sign up here to receive your early copy: Get Early Access to a Game-Changing Book for Christian Leaders

Your Leadership Matters—Take the First Step Today

Burnout isn’t inevitable. By making small, intentional changes now, you can continue leading with strength, joy, and endurance.

�� Which step do you need to take today? Drop a comment below and let’s talk about it!

And don’t forget— grab your free early copy of the book now! ��

�� Get Early Access to a Game-Changing Book for Christian Leaders

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Excellence Without Exhaustion: How to Lead Without Losing Your Joy

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 18:17:39 GMT

Excellence in ministry should not come at the sacrifice of your spiritual well being and family.

Are You Striving or Thriving?

Ministry should be life-giving, but too often, it feels draining. Many leaders start their calling with passion, only to find themselves exhausted, overwhelmed, and wondering where their joy went.

Maybe you’ve felt it too—the weight of expectations, the endless to-do lists, the pressure to be everything to everyone. If you’re not careful, the pursuit of excellence can become a relentless cycle of striving, stress, and eventual burnout.

But here’s the truth: Excellence in ministry should not come at the sacrifice of your spiritual well being and family.

In this post, we’ll explore how to pursue excellence without exhaustion, and why the key to sustainable leadership is not working harder—but leading smarter.

The Myth of Overwork = Excellence

Many ministry leaders believe the more they do, the more effective they are. But consider these questions:

Are you constantly busy, but never feel like you’re making progress?
Do you struggle to disconnect from work, even during family time?
Have you lost the joy that once fueled your calling?

If you said yes to any of these, you may be stuck in the cycle of striving instead of thriving.

The problem isn’t your commitment—it’s your approach.

Excellence vs. Perfectionism

There’s a difference between pursuing excellence and chasing perfection. Excellence is giving your best while honoring your limits. Perfectionism is never feeling like your best is enough.

God calls us to be faithful, not flawless.

3 Keys to Leading With Excellence Without Burnout

1. Define What Excellence Actually Looks Like

Instead of saying “I have to do everything,” ask: What is my primary calling?

Excellence isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what truly matters.
Focus on what only you can do, and delegate the rest.
Set clear, measurable goals instead of chasing endless tasks.

2. Set Healthy Boundaries Without Guilt

A leader without boundaries is like a ship without a rudder—eventually, you’ll crash.

Protect your time by scheduling rest as intentionally as work.
Learn to say no to distractions and yes to priorities.
Recognize that your ministry is only as healthy as you are.

3. Rediscover Joy in Your Calling

Ministry should not just be sustainable—it should be joyful.

Find small wins and celebrate them.
Surround yourself with life-giving relationships.
Prioritize your spiritual renewal—because leading on empty isn’t leadership at all.

Want to Go Deeper? Get Early Access to Our New Book!

If you’re ready to break free from the exhaustion trap and lead with excellence AND joy, we have something special for you!

�� Our upcoming book, The Ultimate Guide to Excellence Without Burnout , is packed with practical, biblically grounded strategies to help you thrive in leadership without running yourself into the ground.

Want a free early copy?

We are offering an exclusive early PDF version of the book before its official release to a limited number of readers in exchange for an honest review .

�� Sign up here to receive your early copy: Get Early Access to a Game-Changing Book for Christian Leaders

Let’s Talk!

What’s one thing you can start doing this week to reclaim joy in your leadership? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

And don’t forget— get your free early copy of the book today! ��

�� Get Early Access to a Game-Changing Book for Christian Leaders

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Why “Doing It All” Isn’t Biblical: The Power of Delegation in Ministry

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 14:13:12 GMT

God never called us to do it all.

The Myth of the Overworked Leader

There’s an unspoken rule in ministry that many leaders buy into: If I don’t do it, who will?

For years, I believed this. I thought that being a faithful servant meant saying yes to everything —every request, every need, every opportunity to serve. I was the first to arrive, the last to leave, and the one catching every dropped ball. Until I burned out.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

Many Christian leaders wear overwork as a badge of honor , equating busyness with faithfulness. But here’s the truth:

God never called us to do it all.

In fact, Scripture shows us delegation is not only wise—it’s biblical.

Delegation is a Biblical Principle

If you think you need to carry it all, take a look at how God designed leadership.

Moses: The Leader Who Almost Burned Out

In Exodus 18:17-23 , Moses was drowning in work, trying to judge every dispute among the Israelites. His father-in-law, Jethro, saw the problem and told him:

“What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone.” (Exodus 18:17-18, NIV)

Jethro then instructed Moses to select capable leaders to help carry the burden, allowing Moses to focus on what only he could do.

Jesus: The Ultimate Delegator

Even Jesus—the Son of God—did not do ministry alone.

He trained and sent out the 12 disciples (Luke 9:1-6).
He later commissioned 72 more to go ahead of Him (Luke 10:1-12).
He empowered others to carry the mission forward (Matthew 28:19-20).

If Jesus, who was fully God, chose to delegate and equip others , why do we think we have to do it all ourselves?

Why Delegation is Key to Sustainable Leadership

If we want to lead with excellence and longevity , we must embrace delegation. Here’s why:

1. It Protects You from Burnout

Ministry was never meant to be carried alone. When you delegate, you’re not just getting help—you’re preventing exhaustion, resentment, and burnout.

2. It Strengthens Your Team

By sharing responsibility, you empower others to use their gifts. Delegation isn’t just about lightening your load; it’s about developing leaders .

3. It Frees You for What Matters Most

When you stop micromanaging every detail, you gain more time for prayer, teaching, and vision-casting. You shift from being a doer to being a leader.

4. It Reflects Trust in God

Refusing to delegate often comes from a fear of letting go. But true faith means trusting that God is the one who sustains the ministry—not us.

Practical Steps to Start Delegating Today

Delegation isn’t about dumping tasks on people. It’s about strategically releasing responsibility to build a healthier, more sustainable ministry.

1. Identify What ONLY You Can Do

Ask yourself: What are the things that require my unique gifts and calling? These are the tasks you should focus on. Everything else can be shared.

2. Choose Capable People

Like Moses, select trustworthy leaders who can handle responsibilities well. Train them, empower them, and let them lead.

3. Give Clear Expectations

Many leaders hesitate to delegate because they fear tasks won’t be done “right.” The key? Set clear expectations and provide guidance.

4. Release Control and Trust the Process

Your ministry won’t fall apart if you step back from doing everything. Trust the people God has placed around you.

Want to Learn More? Get Early Access to the Book!

Delegation is just one of the powerful principles covered in my new book, The Ultimate Guide to Excellence Without Burnout: Manage Ministry Stress, Delegate Effectively, and Thrive in Work and Life.

This book is packed with practical, biblically grounded strategies to help you lead with impact without running yourself into the ground.

Want a free early copy?

We are offering an exclusive early PDF version of the book before its official release to a limited number of readers in exchange for an honest review.

�� Sign up here to receive your early copy: Get Early Access to a Game-Changing Book for Christian Leaders

The Next Step in Your Leadership Journey

Leadership doesn’t mean doing it all yourself. True excellence in ministry comes from equipping others, protecting your energy, and leading from a place of strength—not exhaustion.

�� What’s one thing you need to start delegating this week? Drop a comment below and let’s talk about it!

And don’t forget— get your free early copy of the book today! ��

�� Get Early Access to a Game-Changing Book for Christian Leaders

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Why Ministry Burnout Is More Common Than Ever

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 14:16:35 GMT

Burnout isn’t just a feeling—it’s a documented crisis.

1. The Numbers Don’t Lie: Burnout Is on the Rise

Burnout isn’t just a feeling—it’s a documented crisis. Consider these staggering statistics:

42% of pastors considered quitting full-time ministry in 2022, up from 29% in 2021 (Barna Research).
90% of pastors work 55 to 75 hours per week , often at the expense of their family time and personal well-being (Pastoral Care Inc).
70% of pastors say they struggle with depression or stress-related anxiety , and 50% feel unable to meet the demands of ministry (Fuller Institute).

If you’re experiencing exhaustion, detachment, or a loss of motivation, you are not alone.

2. Burnout Affects More Than Just You

Many ministry leaders believe they’re the only ones affected by their overwork, but burnout has ripple effects that touch every area of life:

Your Family: Spouses and children often feel neglected, leading to strained relationships and resentment.
Your Church or Organization: A burned-out leader cannot lead well. Vision, creativity, and discipleship suffer.
Your Faith: Spiritual dryness often accompanies burnout, making ministry feel like a duty rather than a joy.

Unchecked burnout doesn’t just damage your well-being—it impacts your entire ministry.

The Hidden Costs of Burnout That No One Talks About

When we think of burnout, we often picture exhaustion. But the true cost of ministry burnout goes much deeper. Here’s what many don’t realize:

1. Spiritual and Mental Toll

Burnout can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. Many pastors report struggling with deep loneliness, feeling they have no one to confide in.

2. Physical Consequences

Long-term stress increases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and autoimmune disorders —all common among ministry leaders who push themselves beyond their limits.

3. Loss of Ministry Effectiveness

When a leader is running on empty, their effectiveness plummets . Sermons become mechanical, counseling lacks depth, and vision fades. The congregation notices.

4. Loss of Calling

Many ministry leaders quit—not because they stopped believing in their mission, but because they had nothing left to give.

Burnout is not just about being tired. It is a full-body, full-life depletion that can take years to recover from.

So, What Can Be Done?

1. Redefine Success in Ministry

Many Christian leaders equate busyness with faithfulness. But Jesus never modeled a frantic, overcommitted lifestyle. He rested. He delegated. He lived in the moment. And He never let His ministry overshadow His connection with the Father.

Excellence in ministry is not about doing more —it’s about doing the right things in a way that is sustainable and spiritually healthy.

2. Implement Sustainable Leadership Practices

Burnout prevention is about smart leadership. Here’s where to start:

Delegate Wisely: Ministry isn’t a solo sport. If Moses and the apostles needed help, so do you (Exodus 18:17-23, Acts 6:1-7).
Manage Time Well: Define work hours and protect your personal time—without guilt.
Prioritize Family: Your first ministry is your home (1 Timothy 3:4-5).
Normalize Rest: Sabbath is a command, not a suggestion (Mark 6:31).

Burnout happens when we ignore the rhythms of rest and delegation that God designed.

3. Get the Tools You Need to Thrive in Ministry

I’ve seen too many great leaders step away from their calling because no one ever taught them how to lead in a sustainable way. That’s why we are publishing The Ultimate Guide to Excellence Without Burnout: Manage Ministry Stress, Delegate Effectively, and Thrive in Work and Life.

This book is packed with biblically grounded, practical strategies to help Christian leaders lead with excellence—without sacrificing their well-being, family, or joy.

Want to get an early copy before it’s released?

Cedar Creek Ministries is offering a FREE advance PDF copy to a limited number of readers in exchange for an honest review. If you’re passionate about avoiding burnout and leading with impact, joy, and longevity , We’d love for you to be part of the launch team!

�� Sign up here to receive your early copy: Get Early Access to a Game-Changing Book for Christian Leaders

Your leadership matters. But your health, your family, and your joy matter too. Let’s reclaim a ministry life that is effective AND sustainable.

What’s Next?

�� Have you experienced burnout or seen it happen to a leader you know? Share your thoughts in the comments.

�� Don’t forget to sign up for an early copy of the book and start your journey toward excellence without burnout!

�� Get Early Access to a Game-Changing Book for Christian Leaders

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

From Burnout to Thriving: A Story of Transformation

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 14:04:34 GMT

Recovery from burnout isn’t just about stepping back—it’s about stepping forward with a new approach.

Burnout is not the end of the story. For many ministry leaders, it’s a pivotal turning point—a wake-up call to reassess, recalibrate, and rebuild their approach to leadership. In this post, we’ll explore a powerful story of transformation that showcases what’s possible when leaders embrace the right tools, boundaries, and mindset.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

The journey often begins with a realization. Maybe it’s the physical exhaustion that doesn’t go away, the growing resentment toward ministry tasks, or the sense that joy has been replaced by duty. Recognizing these warning signs is the first step toward change.

In our featured story, a pastor shares how years of saying “yes” to everything and neglecting personal rest led to a breaking point. “I thought burnout was just something weak people experienced,” they admitted. “I didn’t realize how much it was affecting not only me but also my family and ministry.”

Taking the First Steps Toward Healing

Change starts with intentional action. For this leader, it meant:

Admitting the problem: Acknowledging burnout as a reality instead of dismissing it as temporary stress.
Seeking support: Reaching out to trusted mentors and peers who could provide encouragement and accountability.
Keeping Priorities: Learning to say “no” and delegate tasks to others, even when it felt uncomfortable at first.

These initial steps created space for healing and reflection, laying the foundation for lasting transformation.

Embracing Practical Solutions

Recovery from burnout isn’t just about stepping back—it’s about stepping forward with a new approach. This leader embraced strategies such as:

Prioritizing rest: Scheduling regular Sabbath days and taking time for personal spiritual renewal.
Delegating effectively: Empowering others in their congregation to lead and take ownership of key responsibilities.
Using tools for efficiency: Adopting technology that streamlined administrative tasks and freed up time for meaningful ministry work.

With these changes, the leader found a renewed sense of purpose and energy. “For the first time in years, I felt like I could truly enjoy ministry again,” they shared.

Finding Joy and Balance

The transformation wasn’t just about avoiding burnout—it was about thriving. By addressing the root causes of their exhaustion, this leader discovered:

Greater joy in serving others.
Stronger relationships with their family and congregation.
A deeper reliance on God’s strength rather than their own.

Their story is a testament to the fact that burnout doesn’t have to be the end. With the right tools, mindset, and support, it’s possible to lead with excellence while maintaining balance and joy.

Your Story Can Change Too

If you’ve ever felt the weight of burnout, know that you’re not alone—and there’s hope.

Stay tuned as we continue this journey of transformation, and remember: thriving in ministry is not only possible—it’s what God desires for you.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Practical Steps to Avoid Burnout and Lead Effectively

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:53:43 GMT

When rest is valued, burnout becomes less likely, and leaders are better equipped to serve with energy and focus.

Burnout may feel inevitable in ministry, but it doesn’t have to be. By implementing practical, sustainable strategies, you can lead with purpose and joy. In this post, we’ll explore specific steps you can take to avoid burnout and thrive in your calling. Whether you are a pastor of a mega-church or a homeschooling mother of 8 who runs the ins and outs of a couple of businesses and a ministry, there are ways to increase efficiency to be able to do more in less time.

1. Prioritize Delegation

Delegation isn’t just a time-saving tactic; it’s a biblical principle. Moses learned this in Exodus 18 when his father-in-law, Jethro, advised him to share the workload. By appointing capable leaders to handle smaller tasks, Moses was free to focus on what only he could do.

Delegating effectively means:

Identifying the tasks only you can handle.
Empowering others to step into their roles with confidence.
Trusting your team to carry the load without micromanaging.

When you delegate, you not only lighten your own burden but also equip others to grow in their gifts and serve with excellence.

2. Utilize Technology Wisely

Modern tools can streamline your ministry work, saving time and reducing stress. Consider implementing:

Project management tools like Trello or Asana to keep tasks organized.
Communication platforms like Slack or Teams for efficient team collaboration.
Automation tools for repetitive tasks, such as scheduling social media posts or sending follow-up emails.

Technology should enhance your ministry, not overwhelm it. Choose tools that align with your needs and help you work smarter, not harder.

3. Build a Culture of Rest

Rest isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. God modeled rest in creation, and Jesus often withdrew to quiet places to pray and recharge. A healthy ministry culture prioritizes rest for its leaders and volunteers.

Practical ways to incorporate rest include:

Scheduling regular Sabbath days for yourself and encouraging your team to do the same.
Creating boundaries around work hours to protect personal and family time.
Planning retreats or time away for spiritual renewal and vision casting.

When rest is valued, burnout becomes less likely, and leaders are better equipped to serve with energy and focus.

4. Establish Clear Priorities

In ministry, it’s easy to feel like everything is urgent. But not every task is equally important. Take time to:

Clarify your top priorities for the season ahead.
Focus on what aligns most closely with your calling and goals.
Learn to say “no” to opportunities that don’t align with those priorities.

By focusing on what truly matters, you can lead with clarity and purpose, avoiding the overwhelm of trying to do it all.

5. Lean on Biblical Wisdom

Scripture is full of guidance for leading well. Meditate on verses like Matthew 11:28-30, where Jesus invites us to find rest in Him, or Galatians 6:9, which encourages perseverance while doing good. Regularly spending time in God’s Word will help you stay grounded and refreshed.

6. Foster a Support Network

No leader should navigate ministry alone. Build a community of trusted peers, mentors, and friends who can:

Provide encouragement and accountability.
Pray with and for you regularly.
Offer practical advice and perspective when challenges arise.

When you’re surrounded by support, you’re less likely to feel isolated and more equipped to handle the ups and downs of ministry.

7. Celebrate Wins, Big and Small

Taking time to celebrate victories—whether it’s a life changed, a successful event, or simply completing a tough week—helps combat discouragement and fosters gratitude. Recognize and affirm the contributions of your team and acknowledge God’s faithfulness in every step.

Moving Forward

Burnout is a serious challenge, but it doesn’t have to define your ministry journey. By prioritizing delegation, rest, and sustainable practices, you can lead effectively while maintaining your joy.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

How to Lead with Excellence Without Sacrificing Your Family or Joy

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 12:42:10 GMT

If your ministry is thriving but your family is suffering, something isn’t working.

The Tension Between Ministry and Personal Life

Ministry is a calling , but that doesn’t mean it should destroy your life. Too many leaders run themselves ragged, believing that if they just work harder, God will be more pleased. But let’s be clear: God designed ministry to give you an abundant life, lived out for His glory for the benefit of your family, your community and the lost.

There’s a dangerous myth that you must choose between faithfulness and abundant life—between leading well and loving your family well. But in reality, faithfulness means stewarding ALL aspects of your life well : your ministry, your family, your health, and your joy.

�� If your ministry is thriving but your family is suffering, something isn’t working. ��

The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice one for the other.

Why Overcommitment Isn’t the Answer

Many ministry leaders think the answer to growing their ministry is doing more . More meetings. More events. More availability. But here’s the reality:

Burned-out leaders produce burned-out congregations.
Your family feels the weight of your exhaustion.
Excellence in ministry isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing the right things effectively.

Think about stewardship. We often talk about wisely managing money, but what about managing:

Your time? You can’t buy more of it.
Your energy? It’s a limited resource.
Your physical and spiritual capacity? If you’re running on fumes, you won’t have anything left to pour out.

Leading with excellence means leading with wisdom, not just effort.

Building a Sustainable Leadership Approach

So, how do you create a ministry life that is both effective and sustainable ?

1. Learn to Say No

Every “yes” is a “no” to something else—often to rest, relationships, or your well-being.
Jesus didn’t heal everyone. He didn’t attend every event. He focused on what mattered most.

2. Delegation is a Biblical Principle

In Exodus 18:17-23 , Moses was overwhelmed with leading alone. His father-in-law Jethro advised him to delegate to capable leaders.
In Acts 6 , the apostles appointed deacons so they could focus on teaching and prayer.
If Moses and the early church needed help, you do too.

3. Use Tools to Work Smarter, Not Harder

Ministry should be about impact, not endless to-do lists.
Use digital tools for scheduling, automation, and communication to streamline your workload.
Balance biblical wisdom with practical strategies—Jesus withdrew to rest, and so should you.

The Path to Thriving Leadership

1. Protect Your Joy

Ministry isn’t just about duty—it should also bring joy .
Set aside non-ministry time to refresh and refocus.
Prioritize relationships that give life , not just those that demand from you.

2. Create a Healthy Ministry Culture

If people see you running yourself into the ground, they’ll think that’s what faithfulness looks like.
Model healthy leadership so others know it’s possible to serve without sacrificing everything.
Encourage sustainability in your team.

3. Focus on Longevity Over Immediate Results

A thriving ministry isn’t built overnight—it’s built through consistent, wise leadership over time.
Don’t sprint in a marathon. Pace yourself, so you don’t burn out before the finish line.

A Resource to Help You Lead Well

If you’re serious about leading with excellence without losing your family or joy, stay tuned!

�� Coming Soon: The Ultimate Guide to Achieving Excellence Without Burnout

This guide will walk you through practical, biblical strategies to lead effectively, protect your family, and actually enjoy ministry again.

�� You don’t have to just survive ministry—you can THRIVE in it. Stay tuned as we continue this journey together!

What’s your biggest struggle in managing leadership and personal life? Reply and let me know—I’d love to hear from you! ��

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

3 Lies Christians Believe About Burnout

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 15:48:37 GMT

Strength isn’t about ignoring exhaustion; it’s about recognizing limitations and making wise adjustments.

Having been a Christian now almost longer than I haven’t, it feels like I’ve heard it all. As I think of the lies we believe about burnout and rest I’m remembering a time a few years ago I sat in front of a crying pastor’s wife. She shared the burden of her husband’s overwhelm and burnout. I remember her frustration over the lies her husband was believing.

“He’s so strong and faithful, but he thinks he’s weak because he’s exhausted.”

The story goes on…

She is not the only one who has battled for her husband against lies our culture seems to embrace.

We have seen so many pastors exhausted, burned out or about to be, unwilling to share with their family or their boss because they don’t think their faith is not strong enough and they don’t want anyone to know.

There is truth…but let’s start with the lies.

3 Lies Christians Believe About Burnout

Burnout in ministry isn’t just a result of overwork—it’s also fueled by false beliefs that keep leaders trapped in exhaustion and guilt. Many well-intentioned Christians buy into harmful myths about burnout, which only make things worse.

Lie #1: Burnout Means You’re Weak

One of the biggest misconceptions is that experiencing burnout is a sign of weakness or failure. Leaders often feel pressured to push through exhaustion, believing they just need to be tougher, stronger, or more committed. But burnout isn’t a character flaw—it’s a warning sign that something isn’t right.

Even Jesus took time to rest, retreating from the crowds to pray and recharge. Strength isn’t about ignoring exhaustion; it’s about recognizing limitations and making wise adjustments.

Lie #2: Faithful Christians Shouldn’t Struggle with Burnout

Some believe that if you’re truly walking in faith, burnout shouldn’t be an issue. The thinking goes: If I just trust God more, He will sustain me. While faith is absolutely essential, God never asks us to give more than what He can lead us through. We must learn to assess what is non negotiable and what can wait.

Paul, Elijah, and even Moses experienced moments of exhaustion and discouragement. The Bible doesn’t condemn them for it—instead, God provided rest, support, and renewed strength. Burnout isn’t a spiritual failure; it’s a sign that something needs to change.

Lie #3: You Should Be Able to Wear All the Hats

Many ministry leaders feel like they have to do everything: preach, counsel, lead worship, organize events, and handle administrative work. But Scripture teaches the body of Christ is made up of many members , each with unique gifts and roles.

Trying to do everything alone isn’t faithfulness—it’s inefficiency and exhaustion waiting to happen . Delegation isn’t about giving up responsibility; it’s about empowering others to serve effectively and sustainably.

Breaking Free from These Lies

Burnout thrives in isolation and shame, but freedom begins with challenging these false beliefs and embracing a healthier, biblical approach to ministry.

If you’ve believed these lies, you’re not alone. In the next post, we’ll explore how to build a sustainable approach to leadership that honors both your calling and your well-being.

Stay tuned—there’s a better way forward!

Quick strategies to implement to avoid burnout:

1. Ruthless Prioritization

Not everything is urgent, and not everything is yours to do.
Identify what ONLY you can do, delegate the rest.

2. Strategic Delegation

If you don’t trust others to help, you’ll drown alone.
Empower capable people with real responsibility (not just busywork).
Equip, train, and release others to lead.

3. Clear Ministry Vision

Ministry is a marathon, not a sprint— pace yourself .
Set work hours and honor them.
Say “no” without guilt (even to “good” things).

4. Gospel-Driven, Not Guilt-Driven Work

Your worth is in Christ, not in how much you produce.
Stop confusing faithfulness with overwork .
Trust that God can handle things without you running yourself into the ground.

5. Build a Culture of Rest & Sustainability

Model healthy leadership—your team will follow your example.
Normalize Sabbath, real breaks, and not overextending.
Ministry should inspire , not crush people.

These aren’t just “nice ideas”—they’re essential if you want to lead well without burning out. �� Which one do you need to implement first?

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Why Ministry Leaders Are Burning Out Faster Than Ever

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 16:19:03 GMT

Burnout doesn’t just affect ministry leaders personally—it ripples outward.

Burnout.

It’s the silent epidemic spreading through ministry circles, leaving leaders overwhelmed, discouraged, and questioning their callings. Maybe you’ve felt it, too—that creeping exhaustion that no amount of sleep can fix, the emotional drain from carrying the weight of endless responsibilities, or the nagging thought that you’re just one more crisis away from throwing in the towel.

It’s a hard truth: ministry leaders are burning out faster than ever. But why is this happening? And more importantly, does it have to?

The Root of the Problem

One of the biggest culprits of burnout is the lack of training and support in church and ministry circles. The urgency to fill roles often overshadows the need for equipping people to thrive in them. Leaders are thrown into positions without adequate tools or guidance, expected to “figure it out” while managing the daily grind of ministry life.

This creates an unsustainable cycle:

Too few people carry the weight of too many responsibilities.
Delegation becomes an afterthought as urgency takes precedence.
Efficiency and sustainability are sacrificed for short-term problem-solving.

Unrealistic Expectations

On top of this, many leaders feel the pressure of unrealistic expectations —both self-imposed and from others. In ministry, there’s often an unspoken belief that you should be able to do it all: wear every hat, meet every need, and keep everyone happy. But the reality? No one can sustain that pace, no matter how faithful or devoted they are.

And yet, the stigma around burnout can make leaders feel like they’re failing. Misconceptions like “burnout means you’re weak” or “a faithful Christian shouldn’t struggle with burnout” only add to the guilt, making it even harder to ask for help.

The Hidden Costs of Burnout

Burnout doesn’t just affect ministry leaders personally—it ripples outward. When leaders are running on empty:

Their families often bear the brunt of their stress and exhaustion.
Ministry effectiveness declines as passion gives way to survival mode.
The very people they’re called to serve miss out on the full impact of their gifts and calling.

Over time, burnout can lead to disengagement, disillusionment, and even a complete exit from ministry altogether. And yet, it doesn’t have to be this way.

A Better Way Forward

What if burnout wasn’t the inevitable outcome of serving in ministry? What if there was a way to lead with excellence while maintaining joy, balance, and a thriving relationship with God and your loved ones?

There is hope. By addressing the root causes of burnout and equipping leaders with practical tools and biblical wisdom, we can create a culture that prevents burnout while still thriving in excellence for the glory of God. It starts with recognizing that burnout isn’t a personal failing—it’s a system that needs to change.

This is exactly why The Ultimate Guide to Achieving Excellence Without Burnout was written. It’s not about doing more or trying harder. It’s about learning how to:

Delegate effectively without guilt.
Utilize modern tools and strategies to work smarter, not harder.
Honor your calling while protecting your joy and family.

Though this book is still in it’s finishing touches stage of publication, get ready for it. It’s time we all prepare for excellence without burnout.

What’s Next?

Over the next few weeks, we’ll explore the myths about burnout, practical solutions for thriving in ministry, and how to create a culture of sustainability. If you’ve ever felt stretched too thin or wondered if there’s a better way to walk out your calling, this series is for you.

Let’s break free from the burnout cycle and step into the abundant, joy-filled life God has for us. Stay tuned—there’s hope and help ahead.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Praying for Your Pastor’s Protection and Endurance

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 15:34:38 GMT

Without God’s protection and sustaining power, they can quickly become overwhelmed.

Ministry can be physically, emotionally, and spiritually draining. Pastors often face long hours, criticism, and the weight of their congregation’s burdens. Without God’s protection and sustaining power, they can quickly become overwhelmed. This post will focus on praying for your pastor’s protection and endurance in their ministry.

The Need for Protection

Pastors face many challenges, from spiritual attacks to the pressures of leadership. 2 Thessalonians 3:3 assures us, “But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.” Praying for your pastor’s protection helps shield them from harm and enables them to serve effectively.

Practical Ways to Pray for Protection and Endurance

Pray for Physical Health: Ask God to protect their health and give them the energy to meet the demands of ministry.
Pray for Emotional Strength: Pray that your pastor would find peace and joy in the Lord, even amid challenges.
Pray for Perseverance: Ask God to help your pastor remain steadfast and not grow weary in doing good (Galatians 6:9).

Scriptures to Pray

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.”
Isaiah 41:10 : “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

A Sample Prayer

Lord, we pray for Your protection over our pastor. Guard their heart, mind, and body from harm. Shield them from spiritual attacks and give them the endurance to press on in their calling. Refresh them in times of weariness and remind them of the eternal reward for their faithfulness. Thank You for sustaining them by Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Family Discussion Questions

What are some specific challenges pastors might face that require protection?
How can we pray for our pastor’s endurance during busy or difficult seasons?
Can we think of ways to encourage our pastor when they might feel overwhelmed?
What Bible verses remind us of God’s protection and strength?

Get a copy of your Prayer Pledge Drive Journal .

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Praying for Your Pastor’s Spiritual Strength and Leadership

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 16:04:10 GMT

Pastors are called to proclaim the truth boldly, even in the face of challenges.

The effectiveness of a pastor’s ministry depends heavily on their spiritual health and leadership capacity. Pastors are entrusted with preaching the Word, shepherding the church, and making wise decisions. But they cannot do this without the help of the Holy Spirit and the prayers of their congregation. In this post, we will focus on praying for your pastor’s spiritual strength and leadership.

The Call to Preach and Lead

Paul’s charge to Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:2 is a powerful reminder of a pastor’s role: “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.” Pastors are called to proclaim the truth boldly, even in the face of challenges. They also need wisdom to lead their congregations and discernment to navigate complex situations.

Practical Ways to Pray for Spiritual Strength

Pray for Boldness: Ask God to give your pastor courage to preach God’s Word without compromise (Acts 4:29).
Pray for Discernment: Pray for wisdom in decision-making and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s guidance (James 1:5).
Pray for Spiritual Renewal: Lift up your pastor in prayer, asking God to refresh their soul and strengthen them for the work ahead (Isaiah 40:31).

Scriptures to Pray for Leadership

Proverbs 3:5-6 : “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Ephesians 6:10-11 : “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

A Sample Prayer

Father, we pray for our pastor’s spiritual strength and leadership. Fill them with boldness to preach Your Word faithfully. Grant them discernment to make wise decisions and guide them by Your Holy Spirit. Strengthen them in times of discouragement and refresh their soul daily. Thank You for their commitment to serving You and leading our church. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Family Discussion Questions

Why do you think spiritual strength is important for pastors?
How can we pray specifically for our pastor’s leadership this week?
Are there ways we can support their ministry practically while praying?
Can we commit to praying as a family before church each week?

Get a copy of your Prayer Pledge Drive Journal .

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Praying for Your Pastor’s Personal Life and Family

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 15:21:05 GMT

Pray that your pastor and their family would have opportunities to rest and recharge.

Pastors are not just spiritual leaders; they are also human beings with families, struggles, and personal needs. While we often see them in their public roles, it’s easy to forget that they, too, need prayer for their private lives. This week, we’re focusing on praying for your pastor’s personal life and family.

The Importance of Family

Joshua 24:15 declares, “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” For pastors, their families often serve alongside them in ministry. However, this can bring unique challenges, such as time pressures, unrealistic expectations, and the constant scrutiny of church members.

Your prayers can help strengthen their family bonds and provide a covering of protection over their personal lives.

Practical Ways to Pray for Their Family

Pray for Unity: Ask God to strengthen their marriage and family relationships.
Pray for Rest: Pray that your pastor and their family would have opportunities to rest and recharge.
Pray for Encouragement: Lift up their family in prayer, asking God to fill them with joy and peace.

Scriptures to Pray Over Their Family

Ecclesiastes 4:12 : “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 : “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

A Sample Prayer

Lord, thank You for the family of our pastor. We pray for unity, peace, and joy in their home. Protect their marriage and their children from harm. Provide rest and refreshment for their souls, and guard them against discouragement. May their home be a place of love and laughter. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Family Discussion Questions

How do you think a pastor’s family might be impacted by their ministry?
Why is it important to pray for a pastor’s spouse and children?
What are some creative ways we can encourage their family?
Can we, as a family, commit to writing a note or giving a small gift to show appreciation?

Get a copy of your Prayer Pledge Drive Journal .

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Why Your Pastor Needs Your Prayers More Than You Think

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 15:14:36 GMT

Pastors are not only called to teach and guide but also to live as examples.

Pastors are often the unsung heroes of the church, tirelessly serving their congregations and guiding their flocks through life’s spiritual and practical challenges. But have you ever stopped to think about the pressures they face? From counseling individuals in crisis to preparing weekly sermons, pastors carry significant emotional, spiritual, and physical burdens. Yet, many of us forget one simple but powerful thing we can do to support them: pray.

In this first post of our series, we’ll explore why pastors need your prayers and how you can begin interceding for them. We’ll also look at what Scripture says about the role of pastors and the importance of lifting them up in prayer.

The Weight of Leadership

The Bible gives us a glimpse into the responsibilities of spiritual leaders. In 1 Peter 5:2-3, pastors are instructed to: “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”

This high calling comes with immense responsibility. Pastors are not only called to teach and guide but also to live as examples. The weight of this role can lead to exhaustion, discouragement, and even burnout if they are not supported. Prayer is one of the most powerful ways we can come alongside our pastors and help shoulder this burden.

The Enemy’s Target

Pastors are on the frontlines of spiritual warfare. As leaders of God’s church, they are often the target of attacks from the enemy. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

The enemy’s goal is to discourage and discredit spiritual leaders, knowing that their failure can impact an entire congregation. This is why it’s critical to pray for their spiritual protection and strength.

Praying for Your Pastor

Here are some practical ways to make praying for your pastor a regular part of your life:

Set a Daily Reminder: Use your phone or calendar to set a daily alarm to pray for your pastor. Even a quick one-minute prayer can make a difference.
Prayer Cards: Write down specific prayer points for your pastor and place them where you’ll see them often (e.g., your fridge or Bible).
Weekly Focus: Assign a different area of prayer for each day of the week. For example:

Monday: Wisdom in decision-making
Tuesday: Protection from burnout
Wednesday: Strength for their family
Thursday: Boldness in preaching
Friday: Encouragement and renewal

A Sample Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of our pastor. We pray for Your hand of protection over their life. Give them wisdom and discernment as they lead and guide our church. Strengthen them spiritually, emotionally, and physically, and renew their energy daily. Guard them against the attacks of the enemy and fill them with Your joy and peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Family Discussion Questions

Why do you think it’s important to pray for pastors?
What challenges do you think pastors face that others may not?
How can we, as a family, make praying for our pastor a regular habit?
Can you think of ways to encourage your pastor this week besides prayer?

Encourage your family to brainstorm ideas for praying together, such as creating a prayer jar or starting a family prayer journal.

Get a copy of your Prayer Pledge Drive Journal .

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Faithfulness in Action: The Heart Behind Our Prayer Pledge Drive

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:24:43 GMT

Faithfulness isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up and trusting God to do the rest.

Tomorrow marks the beginning of our 4th Annual Prayer Pledge Drive , and today, I want to share the inspiring heart of our dear friend Kim—the one who started it all. Her story is a beautiful reminder of how God works through faithfulness, even in the most unexpected moments.

We can be faithful even when:

Life feels overwhelmingly busy.
Our hearts are grieving.
We feel stretched beyond our limits.
Our desire to serve is at an all-time low.
We’re in physical pain or recovering from a procedure.

Faithfulness isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up and trusting God to do the rest.

Serving God is a privilege, but let’s be honest—it’s not always easy. Those who sacrifice and step out of their comfort zones to walk in obedience know this truth deeply.

For every event you see posted on your social media feed, there are hours of prayer, work, and love poured in behind the scenes. What looks simple to the outside world often carries the weight of dedication, sacrifice, and trust in God’s provision.

Kim’s testimony beautifully illustrates this. Stay tuned as we dive into her story and see how God has worked through her faithfulness to make an incredible impact.

"Towards the end of 2020 the Lord brought an idea to me. I was approaching my 40th birthday in February. I would be remiss not to mention that I DO NOT like doing birthday celebrations for myself. It's so not my thing! But again the Lord wanted to stretch me and here was this idea, this big, scary idea that made me all kinds of uncomfortable. It was a fundraiser and not only that but a call to prayer and not only that, but it would utilize by birthday as the jumping off point! I talked to Nickole @littlehouseoftheperrys about this idea and she actually saw potential in it and went to work.

Our first Prayer Pledge Drive Fundraiser event was being planned. During this planning process, I had a tooth extracted, that actually ended up with an infection. At the same time, videos had to be made, with me speaking in the videos. This was awkward and uncomfortable for me to begin wit, but add in a painful swollen mouth and I was like, "Lord, are you sure?"

But Amos directed me through them and although I'll never watch them, EVER, they're at the link in my bio. That first year we requested donations of $40 in honor of my 40th birthday and put together groups of prayer warriors to cover each pastor in prayer every day in February. It was such a blessing all around. God did it despite of me, my health, my discomfort, my weaknesses. It wasn't about me at all, but about what He can do with just a step of obedience.

This is our 5th year of prayer and fundraising!! 4 years have gone by with February being a month set apart for prayer. A year round prayer group dedicated to praying and encouraging our church leaders sprung out of that first year and continues to this day. Money has been raised for Cedar Creek Ministries to give rest to church leaders, missionaries and their families."

Kim’s story is a powerful reminder of what God can do with our “yes,” even when it feels small or uncomfortable. It’s not about our strengths, our preferences, or even our comfort—it’s about His power being made perfect in our weakness.

As we step into our 4th Annual Prayer Pledge Drive , we are standing on the foundation of faith, obedience, and sacrifice that began with a simple idea and an act of courage. Because of that step, lives have been changed, prayers have been lifted, and church leaders have found rest and renewal in ways only God could orchestrate.

Will you join us this year in continuing the mission? Together, we can see God move in incredible ways once again. Let’s step out in faith, trusting that He will take our small acts of obedience and multiply them for His glory.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministri es.

The Power of Prayer and the Demanding Role of Pastoral Leadership

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 15:51:10 GMT

The role of a pastor is demanding, with many challenges, but prayer is the cornerstone that sustains them in their leadership journey.

Prayer is an integral part of the Christian faith. It is a powerful tool for personal transformation and spiritual growth. Beyond its deeply personal benefits, prayer also serves as a guiding force for leaders within the church, especially pastors. The role of a pastor is demanding, with many challenges, but prayer is the cornerstone that sustains them in their leadership journey. In this post, we'll explore both the spiritual benefits of prayer and the rigorous responsibilities of pastoral leadership, while connecting these concepts to previous blog posts on these topics.

The Benefits of Prayer

Strengthening Faith
Prayer provides a direct line to God, deepening our relationship with Him. It offers a safe space to express gratitude, seek guidance, or simply find peace. For many, consistent prayer is the key to maintaining a strong, unwavering faith, especially in times of challenge.
Emotional Healing
Prayer allows individuals to lay down their burdens and find emotional relief. It helps alleviate stress, anxiety, and worry, promoting mental well-being. Whether praying for guidance in tough times or simply seeking calmness in a chaotic world, prayer fosters emotional health.
Alignment with God’s Will
Through prayer, we seek God's will for our lives. This divine alignment ensures that our actions reflect His purpose. The discipline of regular prayer sharpens one's spiritual discernment, leading to better decision-making and clearer direction.
Connection with Community
Prayer doesn’t only nurture the individual spirit; it strengthens the community of believers. Group prayer fosters unity, allowing people to join together in common purpose and purpose-filled requests.

The Rigorous Job of Pastoral Leadership

Pastoral leadership is one of the most demanding roles within the church. A pastor's job requires not only spiritual wisdom but also emotional strength, practical skills, and relentless commitment to their congregation. Let's take a quick look at the multifaceted nature of pastoral leadership:

Spiritual Care and Counseling
Pastors are often called to provide spiritual guidance and counsel to those within their flock. This role can be emotionally draining, as pastors walk alongside individuals through life’s most challenging moments, from grief to personal crises.
Preaching and Teaching
Each sermon requires significant preparation. Pastors are not only tasked with delivering the Word of God effectively but also ensuring that their messages speak to the hearts of their congregation and meet their spiritual needs.
Leadership and Administration
In addition to their pastoral duties, many pastors also oversee church operations, manage staff, and ensure the church runs smoothly. Balancing the spiritual and administrative responsibilities requires organization and wisdom.
Personal Sacrifice and Commitment
The pastor's role often involves long hours, availability during emergencies, and a willingness to put others’ needs first. This level of personal sacrifice can lead to burnout, which is why pastors must lean on their faith and prayer for strength.

Connecting the Dots: Prayer and Pastoral Leadership

As explored in previous blog posts on the importance of spiritual discipline and the role of the pastor , prayer is the bedrock of both personal and professional life for church leaders. Without the practice of prayer, a pastor could easily become overwhelmed by the challenges of their role. Prayer helps pastors remain grounded in their calling, finding the peace and strength to continue serving their communities effectively.

In our previous post on spiritual health , we discussed how prayer keeps both the individual believer and the pastor in tune with their faith. For pastors, this consistency in prayer is vital to maintaining personal strength and emotional resilience in their demanding leadership role.

In another earlier post , we touched on the need for the broader church community to support their leaders in prayer. It’s essential that, as a congregation, we uphold our pastors in prayer so that they are equipped to carry out their roles with grace and wisdom. Just as pastors serve their communities, the community must serve them through prayer.

Last Chance to Join the Prayer Pledge Drive!

As we wrap up, we want to offer you one last opportunity to join our Prayer Pledge Drive ! This initiative is designed to bring our community together in a powerful movement of prayer, especially for our church leaders. By committing to pray daily for our pastors, we can collectively support them in their leadership journeys.

Don’t miss out— sign up today to join the Prayer Pledge and make a lasting impact through your prayers! Together, we can uplift our pastors, our communities, and ourselves in this shared spiritual commitment.

Thank you for your unwavering support in this important mission.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

The Rigorous Job of a Pastor: A Deep Dive into the Demands of Ministry

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 17:26:19 GMT

A pastor’s role involves more than just delivering sermons.

Pastors play an essential role in the spiritual well-being of a congregation, and their work goes far beyond preaching on Sundays. Pastoral ministry is a highly demanding job that requires a unique combination of skills, deep faith, and immense emotional strength. While the job can be incredibly rewarding, it also comes with considerable stress, long hours, and heavy emotional burdens. In this post, we will explore the rigorous job of a pastor, backed by statistics that illustrate the challenges they face, and provide insight into the complexities of pastoral ministry.

The Complex Responsibilities of Pastoral Ministry

A pastor’s role involves more than just delivering sermons. The job encompasses a broad range of tasks that require constant attention, spiritual insight, and leadership. Here are some of the primary responsibilities of a pastor:

1. Preaching and Teaching

Sermon Preparation : A pastor spends a significant amount of time preparing for weekly sermons. This involves not only writing and crafting a sermon but also praying, studying scripture, and ensuring that the message aligns with the needs of the congregation.
Bible Study and Teaching : Pastors are responsible for guiding their congregations in understanding God’s Word. Many pastors lead Bible studies, small groups, and provide individual counseling to help believers deepen their faith.

2. Pastoral Care and Counseling

Providing Support : Pastors offer spiritual support to individuals in their congregation. They provide counseling to people facing personal struggles, including marriage issues, grief, addiction, or mental health challenges. They are also often called upon to visit the sick and offer comfort during times of crisis.

Crisis Management : Pastors are often the first point of contact in times of crisis—whether it’s a sudden death, an accident, or a family emergency. The emotional toll of helping people navigate difficult times can be overwhelming.

3. Leadership and Administration

Leadership : Pastors are leaders of their congregations. They are responsible for casting a vision, setting the direction, and making decisions that affect the church. Pastors often oversee ministries, outreach programs, and other church activities.

Administrative Tasks : A pastor also manages the day-to-day operations of the church. This includes overseeing budgets, managing staff, planning events, and coordinating volunteers. The administrative workload can often feel like a full-time job in itself.

4. Community Engagement

Outreach : Pastors lead and organize church outreach efforts to engage with the broader community. This could involve mission trips, charitable activities, or even social justice efforts.

Public Relations : Pastors must manage the image of the church and ensure that the church’s mission is communicated effectively to both its members and the wider public.

Statistics that Shed Light on the Rigors of the Pastoral Role

To truly understand the demanding nature of pastoral work, it’s helpful to look at some of the statistics that reflect the challenges pastors face. Below are several key statistics that provide a clearer picture of the emotional, mental, and physical toll pastoral ministry can take.

1. Mental Health Challenges for Pastors

A study conducted by Barna Group in 2020 found that one in four pastors reports experiencing significant mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Furthermore, 70% of pastors say they struggle with stress. Pastors are often under pressure to balance personal well-being with the needs of their congregation, leading to burnout and emotional exhaustion.

One in four pastors report dealing with depression or anxiety.
70% of pastors say they are stressed.
40% of pastors say they struggle with loneliness and isolation.

These statistics illustrate the high emotional cost of the job and highlight the need for proper support systems for pastors.

2. Time Commitment and Workload

Pastoral ministry is often described as a 24/7 job, and it’s not uncommon for pastors to work long hours. A survey conducted by LifeWay Research found that pastors typically work 55 hours per week , far exceeding the average workweek for most other professions.

55 hours per week is the average amount of time pastors work.
80% of pastors say their work-life balance is strained, with many working evenings, weekends, and holidays.

This excessive time commitment often leads to burnout, as pastors may struggle to juggle their professional responsibilities with their personal and family lives.

3. High Burnout Rate

Burnout is a serious issue within pastoral ministry. A 2017 study by Barna Group found that 38% of pastors experience burnout at some point in their careers. A staggering 70% of pastors say they feel overwhelmed by the demands of their role. The reasons for burnout can range from overwhelming stress, lack of rest, to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

38% of pastors experience burnout.
70% of pastors report feeling overwhelmed by ministry demands.
60% of pastors say they feel they have no one to talk to about their personal challenges.

These numbers underscore the need for pastors to have adequate rest and support from their congregations to prevent burnout and maintain their mental, emotional, and spiritual health.

4. Financial Strain

Many pastors work for churches with limited budgets, which can result in lower pay, insufficient benefits, and financial stress. According to the National Association of Evangelicals , a significant number of pastors (especially in smaller congregations) struggle financially.

27% of pastors earn less than $40,000 per year , which is below the national median household income.
60% of pastors say they are concerned about their financial future.

Financial challenges add another layer of stress for pastors, who are often responsible for providing for their families while also caring for the financial health of their church.

The Emotional and Physical Toll of Pastoral Work

While the demands of pastoral ministry are often mental and spiritual, they also take a physical toll. The constant pressure to care for others, to provide wise counsel, and to make difficult decisions can lead to stress, fatigue, and even physical health problems.

1. Physical Health

The stress of ministry can lead to a variety of physical issues, such as:

Chronic fatigue : The long hours and constant demands on a pastor’s time can leave them feeling physically drained.
Sleep deprivation : Because pastors often work evenings, weekends, and holidays, they may struggle with getting adequate rest.
Heart disease : Stress is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular issues, and pastors are often under tremendous emotional and mental strain.

2. Emotional Health

As mentioned earlier, the emotional burden of ministry can lead to issues such as:

Burnout : Overwork and a lack of self-care can lead to emotional exhaustion.
Depression and anxiety : Pastors often struggle with depression, anxiety, and isolation due to the weight of their responsibilities.
Loneliness : Pastors may feel isolated in their role, with no one to confide in about the emotional weight they carry.

How Can We Support Our Pastors?

Understanding the rigorous nature of pastoral work is a first step toward offering the necessary support. Here are a few ways church members can help care for their pastors:

1. Pray for Your Pastor

Prayer is one of the most powerful tools available to us. Pray for your pastor’s emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Cover them in prayer for wisdom, guidance, protection, and strength.

2. Encourage Your Pastor

Send a note of encouragement, express gratitude for their leadership, and let them know they are supported. Pastors often feel like they are giving, giving, giving, so a word of encouragement can go a long way in uplifting their spirits.

3. Offer Practical Help

Offer to assist with church activities, organize meals for the pastor’s family, or take on some responsibilities to relieve some of the pastor’s workload. Practical support helps reduce stress and allows pastors to focus on their core responsibilities.

4. Respect Their Time Off

Give pastors time to rest and recharge. Ensure that they have regular days off and encourage them to take vacation time when needed. It’s essential for pastors to have time to recover from the emotional demands of their role.

5. Create a Supportive Community

Foster a church culture where pastors feel they can reach out for support. Provide opportunities for pastors to connect with peers and mentors who can offer guidance and companionship.

The Ongoing Need for Support

The job of a pastor is undeniably demanding and rigorous. From the spiritual battles they face to the administrative burdens they carry, pastors shoulder significant responsibilities. By understanding the challenges pastors face, we as church members can provide much-needed support, encouragement, and prayer to help them fulfill their calling.

As we continue to lift our pastors up in prayer, let’s also encourage others to be part of the effort. Join us for the upcoming Prayer Pledge Drive hosted by Cedar Creek Ministries , where we commit to praying for our pastors for one minute every day during the month of February. Your participation will not only support your pastor but also contribute to the overall well-being of the church and its leaders. Together, we can create a culture of care and unity in our church community, empowering our pastors to continue leading with joy and strength.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Why Should We Pray for Our Church Leaders?

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:41:24 GMT

Church leaders are constantly on the frontlines of spiritual battles.

In every Christian community, church leaders hold a unique and important role in guiding and shepherding the congregation. Pastors, elders, and other church leaders are often the spiritual voices that direct the church's mission, nurture its members, and help individuals grow in their faith. Their responsibility is weighty, and the pressures they face are many. That’s why it is essential for us as a congregation to cover them in prayer.

The Bible makes it clear that church leaders need our prayers. In Hebrews 13:17, we are reminded, "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account." These leaders are entrusted with the spiritual health of the congregation, and their responsibility before God is both profound and sacred. Therefore, it is crucial that we, as a church body, stand in the gap and pray for them regularly.

In this blog post, we will explore why we should pray for our church leaders, how our prayers can benefit them, and the specific areas of their lives and ministry we can cover in prayer.

There are several compelling reasons why prayer for church leaders is essential:

1. Church Leaders Face Spiritual Warfare

Church leaders are constantly on the frontlines of spiritual battles. They are leading God’s people and often face opposition from spiritual forces that want to disrupt the work of God. Satan knows the influence pastors and leaders have on a congregation and will do everything he can to undermine their effectiveness. Ephesians 6:12 tells us, “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Church leaders need our prayers for protection against these forces, as well as strength and wisdom to navigate the challenges they face in ministry.

Benefit for church leaders:

Protection from spiritual attacks and temptation
Strength to withstand opposition
Guidance to lead in the face of challenges

2. They Carry the Weight of Responsibility

Leaders in the church are entrusted with great responsibility. They are charged with teaching God’s Word, guiding the congregation, and making decisions that affect the spiritual well-being of the body of believers. This can be an overwhelming responsibility. James 3:1 warns, “Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.” With this responsibility comes the need for continual prayer for wisdom, discernment, and the grace to lead with humility.

Benefit for church leaders:

Wisdom in decision-making
Discernment in handling difficult situations
Humility in leadership

3. They Experience Emotional and Physical Fatigue

The emotional and physical toll of leading a church can be significant. Church leaders are often called upon to counsel and comfort those who are grieving, struggling with personal issues, or facing crises. They are constantly giving of themselves to others and can become emotionally drained. This can lead to burnout if not addressed. Furthermore, the physical demands of ministry, including long hours of study, preaching, teaching, and counseling, can leave pastors physically exhausted. It’s essential that church members pray for their leaders' physical and emotional health so they can continue serving the congregation effectively.

Benefit for church leaders:

Emotional strength to handle the demands of counseling and leadership
Physical health to sustain their ministry
Protection from burnout and fatigue

4. They Are Role Models for the Congregation

Church leaders are meant to be role models for the congregation. In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul instructs Timothy, “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” Church leaders are expected to live exemplary lives, following Christ’s example and guiding others in their walk with the Lord. This is a high calling that requires constant reliance on God’s strength and guidance. Prayer for their spiritual health and purity is essential.

Benefit for church leaders:

Strength to be a faithful and righteous example
Guidance in maintaining purity in personal and public life
Inspiration and encouragement to live out the Gospel in everyday life

5. They Need Support and Encouragement

Even the most dedicated and faithful church leaders need support and encouragement. Pastors and leaders often face criticism, feelings of inadequacy, and moments of doubt. They are human and need to be encouraged by the congregation they serve. Prayer not only helps provide that encouragement, but it also helps build a bond of unity between the congregation and their leaders. When church members pray for their leaders, they are actively contributing to a culture of support and love.

Benefit for church leaders:

Encouragement during difficult times
Strength in moments of doubt and discouragement
A united church body lifting them up in prayer

How Our Prayers Can Benefit Church Leaders

Praying for church leaders brings numerous blessings not just for the leaders themselves but for the entire church body. Prayer serves as a powerful tool that:

1. Strengthens Leadership

When church leaders know they are being prayed for, it encourages and strengthens them. The knowledge that they are being upheld by their congregation in prayer boosts their confidence and provides them with the spiritual resources they need to lead effectively. Prayer offers them comfort and reassurance in times of stress or uncertainty.

2. Guides Decision-Making

The responsibility of leading a congregation involves making difficult decisions that impact many people. Prayers for wisdom and discernment help guide these decisions, ensuring that church leaders make choices that align with God’s will. In the Book of James, we are told to ask God for wisdom, and He will give it generously (James 1:5). Prayer for wisdom ensures that church leaders are equipped to make godly and wise decisions.

3. Protects from Temptation and Weakness

Church leaders are just as vulnerable to temptation as anyone else. Through prayer, we can ask God to protect them from sin, pride, and burnout. Prayer can help them stay strong in their commitment to Christ and their calling. In addition, prayer protects them from the dangers of isolation and the temptation to withdraw from their responsibilities due to weariness or discouragement.

4. Promotes Spiritual Growth

Just like any believer, church leaders need to grow in their relationship with God. Prayer helps support their spiritual development, encouraging them to draw closer to God, grow in faith, and deepen their understanding of Scripture. Church members can pray for the spiritual growth of their leaders, knowing that a spiritually strong leader will help the entire congregation grow in their walk with Christ.

5. Encourages Emotional and Physical Wellness

Church leaders need rest and renewal to avoid burnout. Prayer for emotional and physical well-being helps ensure they have the energy to continue serving their congregation. Prayer can also encourage leaders to take time for self-care, spend time with family, and enjoy personal rest, so they can continue their ministry effectively.

Areas of a Church Leader’s Life to Cover in Prayer

As we pray for our church leaders, there are several specific areas in which we can cover them in prayer. Here is a list of areas to focus on when praying for your pastor or church leaders:

1. Spiritual Strength and Growth

Praying for their personal relationship with God
Strengthening their faith in times of difficulty
Wisdom in handling God’s Word

2. Emotional Health

Protection from discouragement and depression
Rest and renewal in the midst of stress
Encouragement and support from the congregation

3. Physical Health

Protection from illness and exhaustion
Energy to continue serving the church faithfully
Health and vitality to endure the demands of ministry

4. Wisdom in Decision-Making

Discernment when making ministry decisions
Guidance in leading the congregation toward God’s purposes
Clarity and understanding in dealing with difficult situations

5. Protection from Temptation

Strength to resist temptation and remain pure in all areas of life
Protection from the dangers of pride, sin, and isolation
Accountability and integrity in their leadership

6. Family Relationships

Protection for their marriages and families
Strong relationships with their children and spouses
Time and balance between family, ministry, and personal life

7. Revival of Vision and Passion

Renewed passion for the mission of the church
Revival of their vision for the congregation and community
Energy and creativity to meet the spiritual needs of the church

8. Financial Provision

Provision for ministry needs and personal finances
A generous and faithful congregation that supports the church
Financial peace and stewardship in ministry

The Upcoming Prayer Pledge Drive

As we have seen, prayer is powerful and essential for church leaders. It strengthens them, provides guidance, and ensures their spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. One of the most meaningful ways we can support our church leaders is through a collective act of prayer.

This February, Cedar Creek Ministries will be hosting its Prayer Pledge Drive , a 28-day event that encourages church members to pray 1 minute a day for their pastor . This is a simple yet profound way for the congregation to come together and cover our pastors in prayer. The goal is to help church members focus on the needs of others, particularly their leaders, and intercede for them on a daily basis.

By participating in the Prayer Pledge Drive, you will be actively contributing to the health, strength, and effectiveness of our church leaders. This event is an opportunity for us to come together as a church community, to unite in prayer, and to encourage and support our pastors as they lead with faith and wisdom.

Let’s commit to covering our leaders in prayer, remembering that they are not just individuals serving the church, but the very ones God has called to shepherd His people. Join us in this powerful movement of prayer and support our pastors as they continue to fulfill their God-given calling.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

The Power of Prayer: Transforming Lives and Strengthening Communities

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 22:05:05 GMT

When we pray for others, we align ourselves with God’s heart for them.

Prayer is one of the most powerful gifts we, as Christians, can offer to one another. It’s a tool that connects us to God and empowers us to intercede on behalf of others, inviting divine intervention into situations beyond our control. Yet, prayer is not only a personal practice—it is a collective, communal act that has the ability to strengthen and restore those around us. Whether we are praying for family, friends, our church leaders, or even strangers, the benefits of praying for others are far-reaching and life-changing.

In this blog post, we will explore the powerful benefits of praying for others, and how this simple yet profound act can transform lives, communities, and our own spiritual growth. Additionally, we’ll highlight how Cedar Creek Ministries’ upcoming Prayer Pledge Drive offers a unique opportunity to participate in this communal act of prayer, focusing specifically on praying for church leaders and pastors.

1. Prayer Connects Us to God’s Heart

When we pray for others, we align ourselves with God’s heart for them. It is a humbling act of selflessness—stepping out of our own needs and desires and placing others at the forefront of our thoughts. Prayer allows us to see the world through God’s eyes, not just our own.

Through intercessory prayer, we are invited into a divine partnership with God, asking Him to work in the lives of others in ways that we cannot. This connection deepens our relationship with God, as we seek His will for those we love and care for. By praying for others, we are allowing our hearts to be molded by His purposes, bringing us into a greater understanding of His love for all people.

Benefit for others:
When we pray for others, we are lifting them up to God’s throne of grace, inviting His presence and intervention into their lives. Whether it’s for healing, provision, wisdom, or peace, our prayers can have a significant impact on their circumstances, drawing them closer to God’s will and purpose for their lives.

2. Prayer Strengthens the Bonds of Community

In a world that often values individualism and self-reliance, prayer has the unique ability to unite us. When we pray together, we are actively participating in the life of the Body of Christ, joining our hearts and minds in one accord. This sense of shared purpose fosters a spirit of community, as we become partners in one another’s well-being.

Interceding for others in prayer is a profound expression of love and care. It helps to break down barriers, build bridges, and encourage a spirit of mutual support. We begin to realize that the challenges faced by others are not theirs alone, but that they are part of the larger community of believers—each of us supporting the other through the power of prayer.

Benefit for others:
When we pray for others, especially in a group or church setting, we create a tangible sense of connection and support. Our prayers become a lifeline for those in need, and as they feel the love and care of the body of Christ through our prayers, they are strengthened. The power of community prayer fosters an environment where people can find refuge and renewal.

3. Prayer Provides Healing and Restoration

One of the most transformative benefits of prayer is its ability to bring healing and restoration. Prayer allows us to release our burdens, hurts, and brokenness to God, trusting Him to heal and restore what is lost or damaged.

When we pray for others, we are inviting God’s healing touch into their lives. Prayer has the power to heal physical bodies, mend broken relationships, and restore emotional and spiritual wounds. It’s an expression of faith that God can intervene in situations where human efforts fall short. Through prayer, God can do what we cannot, and He can bring restoration and peace where there was once turmoil.

Benefit for others:
For those who are struggling physically, emotionally, or spiritually, prayer offers the hope of healing and restoration. Prayer can change the trajectory of someone’s life by inviting God’s divine healing into their situation. When we pray for others, we are positioning them to experience God’s power in a profound and transformative way.

4. Prayer Promotes Spiritual Growth and Transformation

When we intercede on behalf of others, we are actively participating in their spiritual growth and transformation. Prayer not only invites God into their lives, but it also serves as a catalyst for spiritual renewal. Through prayer, we can ask God to open their hearts to His truth, to deepen their faith, and to guide them in their relationship with Him.

In praying for others, we learn to trust God’s timing and purposes. Prayer teaches us to surrender our desires and expectations, allowing God to work in His perfect way. As we intercede for others, we grow in compassion, patience, and understanding, learning to rely on God’s sovereignty rather than our own understanding.

Benefit for others:
Through the prayers we offer for others, we ask God to bring spiritual breakthroughs and growth in their lives. This might mean helping them discover God’s calling, grow in faith, or overcome obstacles that hinder their spiritual journey. Ultimately, prayer promotes lasting change by inviting God to transform hearts and minds.

5. Prayer Offers Hope and Encouragement

One of the most profound ways prayer benefits others is by offering hope and encouragement. Life can be overwhelming, and many people experience seasons of doubt, discouragement, and despair. When we pray for others, we are offering them the hope of God’s intervention. We are reminding them that they are not alone and that God cares deeply about their circumstances.

When our loved ones, church leaders, or anyone in our community is struggling, prayer can be a source of great encouragement. It offers a reminder that God is always present, and that He is working in their lives—even when they cannot see it. Prayer provides the assurance that God is actively at work, bringing about good, even in the midst of difficult times.

Benefit for others:
When we pray for others, we are offering them a lifeline of hope and encouragement. Our prayers can help people see beyond their current circumstances, knowing that they are supported by a community of believers who care for them and are lifting them up before God.

6. Prayer Opens Doors for God’s Blessings

In praying for others, we are asking God to pour out His blessings upon them. Whether it’s blessings of provision, peace, wisdom, or success, prayer opens the door for God to move in their lives in extraordinary ways. When we pray for others, we are aligning ourselves with God’s will for them, asking that His blessings flow freely into their lives.

God delights in answering prayers, especially those that are made for the benefit of others. When we ask Him to bless someone else, we are expressing faith in His goodness and His desire to bless His people.

Benefit for others:
As we pray for others, we are asking God to bless them in specific ways. Our prayers might lead to new opportunities, financial provision, or the breakthrough they’ve been waiting for. Through our intercession, we are helping to open the floodgates of God’s blessings and favor in their lives.

The Cedar Creek Ministries Prayer Pledge Drive: A Call to Action

As we reflect on the power of prayer and its transformative impact, we are excited to invite you to participate in the Prayer Pledge Drive for Cedar Creek Ministries. This 28-day event, which takes place each February, provides an opportunity for church members to commit to praying one minute a day for our pastor.

The Prayer Pledge Drive is an initiative designed not only to strengthen and support our pastors but also to encourage a culture of prayer within our church community. By dedicating just one minute each day to praying for our pastor, we can provide him with the spiritual strength, wisdom, and encouragement he needs to continue leading our congregation with joy and clarity.

Why participate in the Prayer Pledge Drive?

Support our pastors : Pastors often face heavy emotional and spiritual burdens. Your prayers will uplift and strengthen them as they lead the church.
Build a culture of prayer : By committing to pray daily for one minute, you’re helping create a church environment that prioritizes prayer for others, leading to a deeper sense of unity and connection within the community.
Contribute to Cedar Creek Ministries : Cedar Creek Ministries is dedicated to helping church leaders rest , restore family relationships , and revive ministry vision . By participating in the Prayer Pledge Drive, you’re also supporting this vital mission.

We encourage you to sign up and commit to praying for our pastor for just one minute a day during this upcoming event. By participating, you will be making a lasting difference in your pastor’s life and contributing to the overall health and vitality of our church.

Let’s come together in prayer, supporting our leaders, building our community, and making a profound impact in the kingdom of God. Join the Prayer Pledge Drive today!

The benefits of prayer—especially when we pray for others—are immeasurable. It connects us to God’s heart, strengthens our community, promotes healing, and opens doors for divine blessings. As we embark on this season of prayer, let us focus not only on our own needs but also on the needs of those around us. Through our collective prayers, we can make a tangible impact in the lives of others, including our pastors and church leaders.

As you consider joining the Prayer Pledge Drive this February, remember that your prayers are powerful. Let’s unite together in lifting up our pastor and supporting the important work of Cedar Creek Ministries. Together, we can create a movement of prayer that changes lives and strengthens the ministry of the church.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Cultivating Gratitude for Those Who Make Church Happen

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 20:38:27 GMT

We forget to be thankful for the daily grind of those faithful servants who show up for everyone’s comfort and growth weekly.

We often overlook all it takes to make a church function. We forget to be thankful for the daily grind of those faithful servants who show up for everyone’s comfort and growth weekly.

When we were still traveling and visiting churches across the country, I had an experience that changed my perspective greatly.

We were visiting a sweet country church in Pennsylvania, and the quiet pastor looked at me and said, “You come from a large church, don’t you?”

I’m loud and obnoxious, but that didn’t mean anything, did it?

“I do,” I responded timidly.

He was quiet, and I’m not sure he would have shared how he knew if I wouldn’t have asked. Curiosity got the better of me, and I asked, “How could you tell?”

“Well,” he began tentatively, “You keep calling me the Senior Pastor.”

There are moments in life when you realize your limited perspective on life has molded you into who you are and imposed on your worldview and language without your knowledge.

I’d only known Jesus at a large church with many pastors to take care of many roles. I’d been on teams to accomplish tasks that one man would have to do if he was the ONLY pastor at a church.

Did you know the average church size across America is 100 people? One man is generally the pastor of 100 people or less and is expected to meet the needs of his congregation. In a church that size, the pastor is lucky to have 10-20 people who serve regularly to lighten the load.

Now, our family attends an average-sized church with one pastor who runs it all with a very active but small group of elders. I see how where we are in our communities, churches, and life circumstances dictates what we know and how we feel about those around us.

So, in honor of all the large and mega-churches out there and for the 1 guy who is at his church doing it all, I give you a list of who to be thankful for at your church. This may just be one guy filling all the roles with a little help from his wife. So… be thankful!!!

Be thankful for:

Your pastor
His wife and family
Your leader’s commitment to your maturity
Sunday services
Childcare
Children’s church
Sunday school
Bible studies
Women’s events
Men’s events
Small group leaders
Bible study authors
Women’s directors
Ministry leaders
Camp directors
Camp counselors
Administrative pastors
Elders
Deacons
The ones who make the coffee
The leaders of the moms groups
The ones who stay to clean up
Janitors
Landscapers
Decorators
Those leading Operation Christmas Child
Potluck planners
Prayer warriors
Worship leaders
Tech guys
Biblical counselors
Facilitators
Greeters
Graphic designers
Social media posters
Video guys
VBS director
VBS volunteers
AWANA leaders
BSF leaders

And I’m positive I’ve missed some.

These next couple weeks, take a look around at everyone involved to get things done at your church and even in your community. Say thank you out loud to someone normally unseen, and then cultivate an attitude of thankfulness in your heart!!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

How to Keep the Faith When We Don’t Know How God is Going to Solve Our Problems

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 16:54:57 GMT

When you know you are called, keep your confidence in where you are.

Though we have seen much fruit in our hosting families the last 2 seasons, we have drained our savings on building projects as everything took more time and money than we estimated. Increases in prices of concrete and building materials made us question what we were doing on more than one occasion.

With a husband who still works out of state and no budget for a mortgage with travel expenses, we often questioned how the Lord was going to provide. In our darkest moments, even with low-hanging fruit in our sights, we even asked if we had done the right thing.

Even the ministry money seemed to be going out faster than it was coming in, even with strict budgeting and good stewardship.

The list of what needed to be done before winter was getting longer, and even though we knew work teams were coming in the Fall, we just weren’t sure we were going to get everything done.

Here is how we held on to hope until…

God had someone on our prayer team send a check for $20,000 to easily cover our year-end expenses and house a former missionary family for the winter on our Montana property.

AND

2 different work teams came and helped us get more done in 3 weeks than we could have on our own in an entire summer!!

Hold Tight to the Truth

When you know you are called, keep your confidence in where you are. It’s so easy in those moments of doubt to succumb to going back to the easier life, but hold fast to knowing you are where God has you.
Keep the Word as what is the whole truth for your life. I don’t mean “the Lord has a purpose and plan, though I’m sure he does, but I mean the tough verses that tell us to rejoice in times of trial and to overcome evil with good.
Remember the fruits of the Spirit come exude from you when you are walking according to the Spirit and not satisfying the desires of your flesh. Walk in the Spirit.

Take Captive Your Thoughts

When life gets tough, we are inundated with wrong thinking and lies. We can easily get caught up in unbiblical thinking and unhealthy habits.
Keep Christ and the truth about who He is at the front of your mind.
Keep who God says you are at the center of your thoughts.
Write out truths of scripture (both who God is and who God says you are) to refocus your thoughts when your mind is reeling.

Keep Moving in the Same Direction until You Get New Instructions

If God hasn’t given new instructions, keep moving forward.
Challenges and trials do NOT mean you are not on the right path.
Don’t buy into the unbiblical idea that if everything isn’t easy, it can’t be the Lord’s will.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

5 Qualities Ministry Leaders Need to Flourish

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 13:00:03 GMT

We are called to follow Jesus and walk in a manner worthy of the calling.

Over the last four years, we have met and spoken with more pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders than we ever had in our lifetime. We’ve encountered people on the verge of burnout, those who are burned out completely, and many who are thriving with burnout prevention habits.

Regardless of their busyness, financial status, or the extent of their responsibilities, we've observed a set of shared qualities among those who are co-laboring with Christ.

While this list is not exhaustive, we have noticed the abundant living attitudes in those who keep these qualities at the forefront of their lives:

Devotion to Family

They protect their family time. They keep set days off and honor them. They make time to be alone with their spouse and separate time to be together with their families. They lead their children in discipleship and maintain relationships with their adult children, where their families continue to glorify God.

Tenacity

They cling to the Lord and His goals, disregarding temporary circumstances and holding fast to the eternal rewards that await them. Their attitudes are shaped by an eternal perspective, not by the challenges they face.

Obedience

They follow Jesus and His Word in life, family, and ministry.

Faithfulness

They persevere through adversity, never giving up but focusing on Jesus. They understand that their strength comes from Christ alone, and they remain loyal and steadfast in their calling, regardless of the obstacles they encounter.

Great Time Management

Those who aren’t burning out are managing their time well, taking time to rest and prioritize their families. They ask for help and build teams to come alongside them so they don’t sacrifice their walk with the Lord or their families for the sake of their ministry calling.

We are called to follow Jesus and walk in a manner worthy of the calling. While we endure to the end, we must be careful not to think we can live this life to our own strength. We can cultivate our gifts, self-assess, and create good habits so we can represent the Lord well to a lost and dying world.

Let’s be thankful for what we can do, knowing it’s truly God who gives us the grace to do anything good at all.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

When Compassion Brings Fatigue

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 13:00:04 GMT

Hearing the worst of everyone’s problems and circumstances can bring on an incapacitating exhaustion, making it difficult to walk out their calling.

When the pastor's wife sitting across from me at coffee asked about my experience with compassion fatigue, I almost jumped out of my seat! Though I’d never heard the term, I immediately knew the feeling, having experienced the perfect description several times in my life and most recently in ministry.

Let’s break it down:

Compassion Fatigue, in my personal definition, would be:

It is often a physical, spiritual, and/or mental feeling of exhaustion that stems from being compassionate toward multiple people's circumstances over a short period of time or many over an extended period of time.

Pastors deal with this often, given the nature of their job. Hearing the worst of everyone’s problems and circumstances can bring on an incapacitating exhaustion, making it difficult to walk out of their calling.

We know we are to:

Be tenderhearted toward one another
Bear each other's burdens
Pray for one another
Encourage believers to be steadfast and faithful

We have to be careful to:

Not let the problems of the world paralyze us.
Take breaks to get the right perspective.
Enjoy God’s blessings in life.
Not let Compassion rob us of joy.

This all begs the questions:

Are we being compassionate enough?
Are we carrying weights only Jesus can carry for those we love and cherish?

May the Lord direct you as you seek to be in His will for the loving care of His people and the lost in your life.

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Cedar Creek Ministries is funded by Christians and churches who believe in the call to offer our leaders the double portion! If you feel the desire to make sure all those men and women called to serve God in missions and ministry have everything they need to personally rest, restore family relationships and revive ministry vision, consider joining us in regular prayer and financial support!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

A Thankful Teenager

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 13:00:04 GMT

The excitement of what the Lord had in store for His people kept us going on challenging days.

If you know me in real life and have had me personally relay the highs and lows of our last 4 years, then you may have heard one of my common phrases I threw around those first couple of years traveling.

"Lord, why didn’t you send someone with fewer kids?!" I’d jokingly plead with my head pointed toward the sky.

The reality of traveling full time with 8 children in a 32’ Travel Trailer, with in-laws following in their own trailer, was not for the faith of the heart. Here’s a snapshot of what our life looked like:

Traveling full-time with 8 children, ranging from 18 months to 12 years old (with 2 still in nighttime diapers).
My husband was still traveling for work while we moved from place to place.
Stopping to encourage church leadership , help train lay leaders, and share the vision God had given us for ministry.

Some days were tough, but the excitement of what the Lord had in store for His people kept us moving forward.

Getting to minister to leaders in their own churches was a blessing God used to keep us refreshed and full of enthusiasm.

We had always been homeschoolers, and our family is friendly, so we didn’t lack fellowship or quickly found friendships at campgrounds or parks.

But it was also crazy difficult.

An Unexpected Reminder of God's Faithfulness

Fast forward over four years into our journey, and something amazing happened. Our family received a heartfelt thank-you letter from a teenager whose family had stayed on our property.

This sweet teen shared how much she needed the fellowship and encouragement she found with us. She connected with my teens, pre-teens, and younger kids, feeling love and friendship in our home. But it didn’t stop there; being around our family reminded her that the Holy Spirit had plans for her, too.

The Powerful Role of Children and Families in Ministry

This experience brought a humbling reminder to my heart:

Children are a blessing.
Teenagers are amazing.
God uses families, youth, and children to minister to others.
Ministry is not limited to adults.

Perhaps God didn’t just choose to use our willing hearts and hands. Maybe, in His infinite wisdom, He chose our family because He had plans for how our children would minister to other young people who needed encouragement, too.

In His grace, He uses us all, even when we feel unprepared or inadequate.

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Cedar Creek Ministries is funded by Christians and churches who believe in the call to offer our leaders the double portion! If you feel the desire to make sure all those men and women called to serve God in missions and ministry have everything they need to personally rest, restore family relationships and revive ministry vision, consider joining us in regular prayer and financial support!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

A Pastor's Inspiring Testimony: How Your Ministry Can Bring Renewal

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 13:00:08 GMT

These were deeply spiritual times of reconnection to God’s Holy Spirit.

If you are in a ministry of any kind, you know there are days when life hits hard. There are days when it feels like too much, and you want to give up. There are days, even moments when you wonder if what you are doing is having any impact.

Quick reminder for all of you walking in your calling, doing what you are called to do each day because you love God and your life is His:

Your work matters.
Encouraging others matters.
Sharing the gospel, week after week, matters.
Holding crying babies so moms can sit through worship and teaching matters.
Saving babies matters.
Working at camp matters.

A man who stayed with us on our Montana property has a story you should read.

God cares.
He sees you.
He is working.

Here is a testimony:

I wanted to share with you how God worked in me during our stay at CCM.

Every morning and some evenings I’d sit in the chair next to the door on the front porch. I would look at that view and marvel at the grandeur of God’s handiwork. Every day, grateful to intimately know the God who created such beauty…. These were deeply spiritual times of reconnection to God’s Holy Spirit.

Then, Thursday morning, that Spirit revealed something to me I wasn’t seeing:

"See that burnt tree, yes, the one right in front of you…. That’s you!"

That’s what I heard. Burned up, scarred, and wounded. Still standing but often overlooked among the greater work of God.

Yes, that’s me…. It was a humbling reality. I’m a ‘suck it up and get it done’ kinda guy! We’ve had great success in rebuilding the wounded body of Christ. But all day Thursday, I pondered the burnt tree and what it represented in me. What had been the cost to my spirit, my family, and my life? All day, the picture of that burnt tree was with me.

How burnt was I? Too burned up to be productive again? Too scarred and wounded to really serve again? Why did you show me that, God?

Then, Thursday evening, as I sat staring at that tree, I saw it! At first, I was not sure what I was seeing. Questioning my eyes, I went to my car and got my binoculars to get a better look! Sure enough, a glimpse of green! Up and down that burned-up tree are little patches of moss! Even while burned up, wounded, and scarred, new life is being birthed in the form of beautiful green moss! The burnt tree still has a purpose!

Thanks be to God for eyes that see.

That’s just one blessing we are walking away from CCM with. We are so grateful for your ministry. You all will be in our prayers daily.

Shalom,
Barry

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Cedar Creek Ministries is funded by Christians and churches who believe in the call to offer our leaders the double portion! If you feel the desire to make sure all those men and women called to serve God in missions and ministry have everything they need to personally rest, restore family relationships and revive ministry vision, consider joining us in regular prayer and financial support!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Building Strong Family Bonds

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 13:00:03 GMT

Being intentional with family relationships on a regular basis is preventive care for restorative ministries in the future!!

In our Strong Family series, we’ve discussed incorporating rest, dates, and vacations into your normal routine to create better opportunities to rebuild strength and serve the kingdom more effectively. We also shared our family’s practical and fun family movie and pizza night to inspire you to carve out time to spend with your family regularly.

In our last post, I promised to help with family game nights, too! Not everyone loves movies, and some don’t feel like watching a movie together even counts as bonding. I let this slide (and don’t lose friendships over it)!

An alternative to "Pizza Movie Night" is...

Pizza Game Night! (Or tacos, pasta, burgers—whatever you like!)

As a family with 8 children, game nights have been either painful or chaotic, but now, with children ages 6-16, we are finally getting a handle on things. I no longer want to run screaming from game nights, and I hope this encourages you if you still do!

Game Ideas by Age Group:

Ages 2-5 (Challenging but fun, especially with older siblings helping)

Matching Games
Go Fish
War
Trouble

Ages 6-9 (It starts to get fun!)

Sorry
Monopoly Deal
Life
Garbage
Spoons
Disney Trivia

Ages 10-Teen (Now it’s REALLY fun!)

Full disclosure: I hate some of the games my teenage boys love, so here are the ones the grown-ups play with the kids and young adults in our house:

Risk Strike
Risk
Cash Flow (My favorite, and we use it for finance education too)
Monopoly Deal (But more intense, LOL!)
Banana Grams (Start when they can spell and read, but it gets even more fun at this age)
Trivial Pursuit (Any junior version is fun; the adult ones are educational)
Scrabble (Surprisingly, some kids LOVE this!)
Cribbage (Starts around age 7, but really fun by age 10!)

Because there are so many of us, family game night often involves different groups playing in the same room, switching games and people. It’s a great way to talk and have fun with your children.

Important Sidenotes:

We’ve incorporated more games into our lives and try to limit screen time during the school week. If there’s dead time, I’ll ask a child to play Speed or a longer game like Cash Flow to fill their cup with quality time.
I dislike some of these games, but I play them to watch others enjoy them and to practice compromise.
Creating this atmosphere has turned our house into a game-playing home . I often look up and see two or three children playing cards or Sorry. My children even ask to play Cash Flow for all or part of their math for the day once a week!

Relationship building is hard to pursue when everyone is on their own schedule, rushing around town at 1000 miles per hour.

Being intentional with family relationships on a regular basis is preventive care for restorative ministries in the future!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Strengthening Family Bonds Amidst Ministry Demands

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 12:22:17 GMT

Take time to be excited about the night and let your children see it.

In this series, we’ve been talking about how to keep family relationships strong , even with the demands of full-time ministry. In our last post, we discussed rest, and I provided some practical ways to incorporate family time into your routine.

The Challenge of Strong Family Bonds

We all know we want strong families, but many of us are leaving our theological knowledge in the theory realm instead of making practical applications to build and maintain strong families.

I understand the busyness of life. Maybe your schedule is full of:

School sports
Weekly church commitments
A second job to sustain a livable wage

Perhaps you can’t even remember the last time your family sat down together.

I get it. As a mother of 8 children with a husband who works out of state on 48-hour shifts, I promise—I get it. We’ve made sacrifices, sometimes facing criticism, to keep our family dynamic strong. We are far from perfect. We:

Fight
Sin
Ask for forgiveness
Forgive

But through it all, we make family time a priority .

Our Family Tradition: Friday Night Pizza and Movie Night

When we moved to rural Montana to build for Cedar Creek Ministries, we found ourselves more isolated than expected. We tried soccer and gymnastics, but everything felt like it was pulling us into a busy schedule that we didn’t want to sacrifice our family for.

Some seasons are busier than others. We all feel it.

One change we made to our schedule, which my children have been diligent about keeping, is Friday night pizza and movie night . They’ve even called me out for making plans with friends or snowboarding trips to ensure we didn’t miss pizza night!

Friday Pizza Night Routine

Friday is also our maker’s day for home education. My children can set aside their regular schoolwork to create. You might find:

Kids in the kitchen
Others working on a woodworking machine
Someone on the pottery wheel
Piano playing
Watching art tutorials

It’s a great lead-in to making pizza dough and prepping veggies for the evening. We keep our pizza supplies on hand and include them in our weekly grocery list. Here’s what we usually have for pizza night :

Flour
Yeast
Pepperoni
Italian sausage
Shredded mozzarella
Jarred spaghetti sauce and tomato paste (for homemade pizza sauce)
Bell peppers
Onions
Mushrooms
Pineapple
Olives

(If your family only eats pepperoni pizza, this step is a LOT easier! LOL!)

When we’re feeling fancy or having guests (or if my husband is home), we might add:

Artichoke hearts
Sundried tomatoes
Canadian bacon
BBQ chicken
Alfredo sauce

The possibilities are limitless!

Family Time in Action

Around 4 o’clock, I start preheating the oven to 500°F and set the table with ingredients so everyone can make their own pizzas. If you have large pans, you can group ingredients on half or a quarter of a bigger pizza.

This becomes a time of togetherness —everyone checks out the ingredients and sees how others are building their pizzas. Conversations begin, and as the pizzas go into the oven, the children start discussing movie options .

Movie Night Tradition: Watching Christian Films

Though we watch many types of movies in our home, Friday night pizza and movie night is for Christian films from Pure Flix. One movie that stands out is 5000 Blankets—intense for the littles with its PG rating! (They’re all still talking about it!)

This is how we keep up with Christian culture in our family. Some movies we’ve introduced to our children include:

War Room
Fireproof
God’s Not Dead
The Case for Christ
Facing the Giants
Faith Like Potatoes

…plus, many others that we’ve never heard of but turned out to be great stories!

A Few Tips for Pizza and Movie Night:

Don’t turn it into a legalistic event that everyone hates.
Be excited about the night, and let your children see that enthusiasm.
Get involved! Help make the food and sit down to watch the movie.
Talk about the topics in the movie afterward and throughout the week. These are opportunities to create teachable moments and discuss discipleship-related topics with your children.

It’s not a science. It’s not biblical.

It’s just a quick tip and tools our family uses that might help you build strong relationships in a practical way.

Make it a Priority

You will have to make it a priority. If you aren’t into movies, maybe a game night will be better for your family. Stay tuned, as we will dive into great family games next time!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

How to keep family relationships strong with the demands of both life and ministry.

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 13:00:09 GMT

It’s about being intentional with your time and making rest and connection a priority in your life.

If you follow our blog, you likely know the first thing I’m going to say:

Honor Your Days Off.

Include a weekly day of rest in your life.
Schedule time annually to get away from the demands of everyday life with your family , spouse , and even by yourself if that refreshes you.

I can almost hear you laughing as I type this. It feels like an impossibly tall order in some seasons—and perhaps it is too much to expect to get all three of these in one year.

BUT…
If you consider date nights for your marriage, a quick overnight or weekend away with friends (where you are not teaching or planning), and a one-week vacation each year, it’s possible!

Some people are better at this than others, but beyond regular rest, date nights, and fellowship with friends, here are other things to consider:

Family Game Nights
Family Pizza and Movie Nights
Family Walks
Family Hobbies
Nightly Family Dinners

It’s not about doing everything perfectly or all at once. It’s about being intentional with your time and making rest and connection a priority in your life. Start small, be consistent, and watch how these moments of rest and togetherness transform your relationships and well-being.

So, as you plan your days, weeks, and months, don’t forget to pencil in time for rest and family . It’s one of the best investments you can make for yourself and your loved ones!

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Cedar Creek Ministries is funded by Christians and churches who believe in the call to offer our leaders the double portion! If you feel the desire to make sure all those men and women called to serve God in missions and ministry have everything they need to personally rest, restore family relationships and revive ministry vision, consider joining us in regular prayer and financial support!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

What is rest, and do I even have time for it?

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 15:46:57 GMT

Creating active periods of rest regularly has positive effects!

Interestingly enough, the Cambridge Dictionary describes rest as a verb!
I mean, obviously, it’s an act of doing something, but really, it’s the act of not doing something .

The definition is as follows:

To (cause someone or something to) stop doing a particular activity or stop being active for a period of time in order to relax and get back your strength.

Now, we have two key components here: relax and get back strength (or recoup).

Relax is also defined as a verb, meaning to become less active, more calm , and happier .

What in the world?!

So, rest is stopping any activity for a certain amount of time to pursue calm and happiness so we can recoup our strength.

THAT SOUNDS AMAZING!

Now I have questions (maybe these are popping into your mind, too):

Do I ever rest?
Does Netflix count as rest?
Does sex count as rest?
What do I need to stop doing to focus on calm and happiness?
Do I ever feel calm?
Do I ever feel happy?
Would I consider making rest a priority for the sake of strengthening my body to do the Lord’s work?
Do I really need to rest to have enough strength to do what I need to do?
Isn’t resting a waste of time?

Does Rest Have Benefits?

As a matter of fact, rest DOES have benefits . Not resting has many negative effects, too!

Doctors often emphasize rest because a life full of busyness without rest leads to physical, emotional, and mental stress, which can cause health problems .

Lack of rest increases the risks of:

High blood pressure
Anxiety
Worry

But creating active periods of rest regularly has positive effects, including:

Increased energy levels
Greater productivity
Less stress
A greater sense of peace

What Does the Bible Say About Rest?

As the Lord would have it, He has a bit to say about rest in His Word, too:

The weary can lay their burdens on Jesus to achieve rest (Matthew 11:28-30)
God’s presence gives us rest (Exodus 33:14)
God rested after He created everything (Genesis 2:7)
Actively waiting can be expressed through rest (Psalm 37:7)
We can rest from worry (Philippians 4:6)

Now, we recognize the benefits of rest , the negative effects of not resting , and some biblical examples of how God gives us rest .

The real question is, will we choose to rest and reap the benefits for the sake of our kingdom-building work, or will we continue in the busyness of everyday life and feel the negative effects on our bodies, minds, and spirits?

Are we willing to give God our best? Can our best even be accomplished in these temples, walking in this fallen world without regular rest—even longer periods of rest, completely setting aside regular life?

So I ask you:

Will you make a weekly day of rest a priority?
Will you make your vacation this year a time of rest instead of an extension of your busy life?

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Finding Rest in the Midst of Ministry: A 31-Day Journey to Rejuvenation

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 19:11:39 GMT

Find a way to get the rest you need to rebuild your strength for God's work!

Do you not have a vacation scheduled for this year?
Are you struggling to see the light at the end of your tunnel?
Does the tunnel feel like it’s closing in with tasks and requests?
Do you feel suffocated by the weight of your to-do list?

Perhaps a time of rest is in order, but you can’t manage to leave.

One of our beloved pastor friends understands and has created a beautiful and practical 31 Days of Rest study for you to do at home.

Incorporate rest into your daily life over the next 31 days so you can find a way to get the rest you need to rebuild your strength for God’s work!

Do not go another day, letting the rush and busyness of life choke out fruit or produce weeds that hinder your kingdom-building abilities.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

We can do better!!

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 13:00:04 GMT

Should Christians be able to support their family with a "job" at church?

Depending on what Christian circles you run in, this conversation varies greatly. Terms like vocational ministry , servant leadership , lay pastor , and bi-vocational pastor often muddy the waters of clarity around what church leadership should look like.

Who should get paid?
How much should they get paid?
What should count as volunteer time vs. a "real job"?
Can a pastor do his job to the best of God’s standards if he has a second job to provide for his family?

Recently, we had a sweet family onsite for a time of rest. They were raising teenagers and serving in both youth and worship ministries at their church. The worship pastor role was a paid position , but the youth pastor role was deemed volunteer (perhaps because they had teens and it was expected... my words, not theirs), even though it was their primary job in terms of time and effort.

I'll save my battle cry for youth pastors for another day!

As I calculated the hours this family was putting in, it became clear they were clocking over 60 hours a week for the church while only getting paid for part-time work. Like any good, godly man, the father found a second job to provide for his family, working construction in the early mornings and then managing two ministries and his family in the afternoons.

Are we thankful for the Lord’s provision? Of course!
Can the church do better? Definitely!

A few years ago, I spoke with another youth pastor who was about to have his first child. Though his wife wanted to stay home with their new baby (a model the church supports), she had to keep working full-time because the church didn’t provide insurance or a salary that could support living on one income.

As the church, we have to ask ourselves: Can we do better?

Are we holding church leaders accountable for offering the double portion required of them in scripture?
Are we trying to do our part financially?
Are we serving to alleviate the burden on one man?
Are we showing up to planned church events? (I'll save this for another post, too, but it’s a thing!)

We can do better, and we should be doing better!

There’s no world where we should be giving our bare minimum for Jesus Christ, including how we treat, compensate, and encourage our church leadership. They are part of the body of Christ! You are part of the body of Christ! We all have our roles, gifts, and callings and need to do our part.

Doing our part doesn’t earn us salvation— only Jesus does that—but it does make our life and purpose here matter for the glory of our precious Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ .

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Do we still honor the Sabbath?

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 19:02:17 GMT

God exampled weekly rest in the creation story.

Since the Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath, I always tend to think that those who observe the Sabbath will be blessed. In my own life, I’ve seen this to be true. A couple of years ago, my husband decided we needed to observe the Sabbath with more intention.

His goals were simple:

Take a day to rest .
Have no obligations .
Make the day an intentional time to focus on the Lord .
Make the day an intentional family day .
Let our teenage boys practice giving a devotion to the family.
Engage in worship centered around hymns.

This was all very intentional, and a day was chosen in advance so we could prepare for the Sabbath. Because let’s be honest... moms with young children never really rest! They’re constantly cooking, cleaning, and managing the household. For our family of 10, a day without cooking or leaving the house takes some serious preparation .

The day before Sabbath, we:

Prepare meals that just need to be baked using disposable pans .
Use mostly disposable dishes for the day—thank you, Dollar Tree!
Do a decent cleaning .
Ensure the laundry is done and put away.
Have the teens prepare their devotions .
My husband gets the music ready.

On Sabbath, we actually:

Genuinely rest .
Avoid screens .
Sit for devotions .
Sing hymns .
Play family games .
Enjoy each other as a family .
Remember who God is and why we serve Him.

Why do we do this?

We believe the Bible supports the idea.
It seems to be for our benefit .
God exampled weekly rest in the creation story.

Is Sabbath rest necessary? For salvation, maybe not. But for a Christ-centered , focused life where you are well-rested and working with great purpose for the Lord— maybe!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

What is a Sabbatical Anyway?

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 31 May 2024 17:14:51 GMT

How do sabbaticals (or lack thereof) affect the church?

What is a sabbatical anyway?

As we finish up our sabbatical curriculum for our upcoming busy season of hosting ministry leaders from across the country, we realize we have learned so much.

God called us to start Cedar Creek Ministries. He gave us a vision, mission and direction. There was still so much we didn’t know!! The lingo still changes depending on what part of the country you are in or what church people attend.

Actually, as embarrassing as it seems now I have this memory of sitting with our old church board looking to raise support. We briefly shared our vision and then assumed they would support us because the Lord has trained us up there for over a decade. We didn’t share the statistics. We didn’t know the lingo.

As they asked us why we would do this or what our biblical support was, we just gave the answer of Moses’s arms needing to be held up, not really having looked up a ton of verses at the time.

Turns out we just didn’t know the lingo!! Pastoral care and missional care are super common phrases and ministries…we just didn’t know God had called us into a ministry with a name. We went blindly as we walked in faith, knowing what we were called to do even if we didn’t know what it was called.

And so enters sabbaticals. We always knew we were going to host personalized sabbaticals for leaders and their families, but at some point we had to say, “Wait, what is a sabbatical and are all Christians defining it the same way?”

Fun facts we’ve learned in the last 4 years of ministry:

Some churches require year (or more) long sabbaticals to keep the church centered on it’s vision and not one man.

Some leaders have worked 30 years with nothing more than 1 week of vacation each year that they spend working on their “honey-do” list.

With the upswing in mental health awareness and burnout prevention more and more churches and pastors are talking about sabbaticals, but not necessarily with the same definitions. Like all "Chrisitianese" we find that both regional and denominational differences affect definitions.

What everyone agrees on:

A sabbatical is a time of stopping traditional work related tasks.

What everyone is still working out:

How long should qualify: It seems a month is the shortest amount of time people take off and use the term.

What the time should be used for: We had one pastor call us, a little bit confused. His church had given him a 3 month long sabbatical and he was just home working on all the things he’d been unable to fix with his demanding schedule. He genuinely asked us if this was what he was supposed to be doing. He had no idea what value was to be found in resting besides the catching up on the life he’d been missing which just so happened to be keeping him as busy as ever!!

Questions people ask:

Is a sabbatical just another vacation?

What is the point of taking so much time off work?

Won’t it actually be a disadvantage to be away from church ministry that long?

Who will take over my responsibilities while I’m gone?

Will a sabbatical just make me seem replaceable to our church board?

How will I afford to actually get away from life and rest?

Here is where we have landed as Cedar Creek Ministries. Sabbaticals in general are times of rest geared with the intention to refocus on God’s work in your life, family and ministry. They are more intentionally purposed for rest and less the idea of a busy vacation.

The thing with vacations these days is that they aren’t restful either. We visit and new place and travel to destinations we’ve wanted to explore our entire lives and we spend our whole trips tirelessly involved in every aspect of culture and experience we can grasp onto, often forgetting opportunities God may have for us if we slowed down.

Vacations are not sabbaticals, BUT sabbaticals can be part of your vacation. If we are really honest, we often need a time of rest from our vacations and retreats!!!

Personalized sabbaticals as we see them. A time of rest, away from the busyness of life where you and your family can both intentionally rest and restore family relationships for the purpose of going home with a renewed sense of calling in your ministry vision.

How does Cedar Creek Ministries accomplish personalized sabbaticals:

Cedar Creek Ministries offers you a place to rest with your family for 3-7 days. This can fall on your sabbatical from work or during any time off.
We leave you sabbatical materials full of encouragement and recommendations for your family on your stay.
No busy work allowed.
Cedar Creek Ministries offers an opportunity to have an intentional time of rest with your family to focus on your first ministry with joy and purpose.
Our intake form helps you decide what you need most to rest with your family. All families have different needs and we want to make sure we do everything we can to ensure you get the most out of your sabbatical time.

5 Ways Ministry Work Teams Bless all Christians.

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 18:18:47 GMT

Work Teams: Good, better and best.

Ministry teams are such a blessing. We are partnering with people on behalf of the Lord to execute His vision on His terms. Occasionally, for some of us...some more than others, this process takes a great amount of patience and creativity. For example, if you have a building project and your team doesn't have any experienced builders, the week can be full of learning experiences and fellowship, but may not be up to par with deadlines you had in mind for the project time table.

Remember:

People are the most important: God designed us to live in fellowship and take on big projects as part of the body of Christ, not on our own.
Ministry teams are for mutual edification not just for the ministry to get work done.

5 Ways Ministry Teams Bless ALL Christians:

They stir up love and good works.
They remind us all that availability is the most valuable quality.
Teamwork makes the dream work!
Many hands make light work.
Brainstorming makes for stronger ministries who serve in stronger capacities.

Love and Good Works:

We are told in Hebrews, as believers, we are to stir up love and good works through not neglecting to meet with one another for the sake of encouragement. Work teams are such a blessing for encouragement, not only for the ministry, but for those who serve on the team as well. When people in communities see work teams serving a local ministry often their desire to partner with the ministry stirs as well.

Availability is valuable:

The ol' God doesn't call the equipped, He equips the called couldn't be more true in this context. When we are available to do God's work, we are used. When we see others serving, we remember to be available.

Teamwork makes the dream work:

Working with others to achieve common goals is such a critical aspect of ministry, especially when there is a large undertaking. Being able to bring others into a shared vision promotes the values of the ministry and gives everyone a sense of being personally vested in the project.

Many hands make light work:

The truth is, even if the people didn't know how to help when they got there, they do when they leave. Often times the educational process for people serving on work teams will benefit the kingdom down the road as they use their newly acquired skills on other work trips. Also, more people help with more projects. The more hands you have the more projects that can be started and often times even completed in a scheduled work week with a ministry team.

Brainstorming:

Often times getting more eyes on a ministry or project provides opinions and feedback that become instrumental to the strenght of the ministry going forward. The same Holy Spirit is dwelling in all His people, so we can trust and depend that He will use others to show us our blind spots, see something from a different perspective or just offer encouragement in the God given direction the ministry is headed.

We all need to work together to execute the visions God has given to His followers. Let His body of believers work as a body to work on God's time table with efficiency and fellowship!

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Cedar Creek Ministries is funded by Christians and churches who believe in the call to offer our leaders the double portion! If you feel the desire to make sure all those men and women called to serve God in missions and ministry have everything they need to personally rest, restore family relationships and revive ministry vision, consider joining us in regular prayer and financial support!!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Stop feeling guilty about rest.

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 17:51:56 GMT

One day of rest can actually improve your productivity.

As a mom of 8 children born in 10 calendar years, who homeschools and directs all operations for Cedar Creek Ministries, I get tired!!

Missionaries working on cultural appropriation are exhausted.

Pastors working to change the culture of a church from grace centered to repentant, but thankful for grace are drained.

Ministry leaders across the country are working diligently to accomplish the tasks set before them and are fatigued from over exertion.

Introverted pastor’s wives are bone-tired from putting on their game face at every church function. They love you, but they grow weary after extended amounts of peopling.

No matter the season we are in, we get worn out, over extended or restless from time to time.

We were designed for weekly rest. We see it from God in His design for all of creation.

“ And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.” Genesis 2:2-3

God likely showed us the example for rest for our own benefit. I have a difficult time believing in all his power and perfection, He needed the rest Himself.

As it turns out, this is all with great purpose. There is scientific backing for regular and scheduled rest being a benefit to both our mental and physical health.

Rest can be active, like taking a walk or it can be more sedentary like sitting for 10 minutes of quiet and meditating on scripture. The key is taking the time to sit and turn off your brain for stressors and physical work. Physical, mental and emotional rest are all beneficial to productivity, burnout prevention and stress management.

How to prep for weekly day of rest:

Pick a day with no obligations. We do Sundays generally, so still go to church, but try to keep it at that.
Make sure you prep food the day before. This is especially important for moms who make 2-3 meals a day every day. InstantPot meals or casseroles you can prep for breakfast and dinner.
Clean the house the night before. Many people can literally not, rest if the house is mess. They will clean. Do it the night before.
Make sure all the laundry is put away the night before. Nobody wants to see piles of clean or dirty laundry on a day of rest.
Plan to have good books, games and non-screen related activities for your family for the day.

Benefits of a day of rest:

Prevents burnout.
Reduces risk of anxiety.
Benefits your physical and mental health.
Obeying scripture’s example of rest.

Email: Do you take a day of rest each week?

As we dive more and more into ministry learning about the benefits of rest, especially for those who work diligently most of the time has really opened our eyes to how Christian culture perceives rest.

Don’t we tend to make people feel guilty for resting?

O.K. maybe not make people feel guilty, but feel guilty ourselves for wanting or needing rest when there is so much to do all the time. I mean even the Lord told us in his word that the work is plenty and the laborers are few, right?

Who has time to rest.

In our blog post this week, we discussed the benefits of weekly rest and how to prep for an actual rest day, but it made me wonder…

How many of our lovely supporters…those of you who are supporting personal rest, restoring family relationships and reviving ministry vision are actually observing a day of rest yourselves?

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Cedar Creek Ministries is funded by Christians and churches who believe in the call to offer our leaders the double portion! If you feel the desire to make sure all those men and women called to serve God in missions and ministry have everything they need to personally rest, restore family relationships and revive ministry vision, consider joining us in regular prayer and financial support!!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

Time to Decorate

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 16:11:05 GMT

Cabin 1 Booked this Summer!

When we bought almost 20 acres of woods, we had no idea all the blessings and challenges we had before us. The journey the Lord is taking us on has had such a great and beautiful purpose! We are so excited about all God is progressing in Cedar Creek Ministries. This Phase 1 of our building project is teaching us so much about both building and ministry. What a blessing it is to serving a Risen Lord!!

Quick Timeline to re-cap:

November 2022: Perry's buy land with intention of using part of it for ministry until ministry owns it's own land.

May 15th 2022: Land cleared for building

May 20th 2022: Perry's get to Montana to stay full time. Dry camping on the property.

July 2022: Crawl spaces dug for both cabins and foundations poured (stem wall for inquiring minds)

July 2022: Craig and Connie Grogman (Amos's parents) get to Montana

Aug 2022: Work team comes out and dries in Cabin 1 in 10 days!

Sept-Oct 2022: Amos and Craig continue to work on Cabin 1 (basically every spare minute of the day)

Sept 2022: Land gets electricity.

Oct 2022: Panicking we won't have a well before winter. Neighbor generously letting us truck in water from their well.

Nov 2022: We get a well a week before snow hits the grown. Praise the Lord!! We were on a waiting list for a year!!

Nov- April 2022: Perry's and Grogmans spend the winter living in Cabin 1 together while working on finishing the build.

March 2022: College work team comes from Helena to start cabin 2.

June 2022: An interior designer friend comes to help decorate cabin 1.

June 2022: Men's group from a church in Fallbrook, CA comes out to help dry in cabin 2.

Our summer projects include:

Building an apartment for Craig and Connie.
Getting cabin 2 livable so the Perry's can live in it while they finish it this winter.

Ongoing Prayer Requests for the summer:

Amos and Craig to have endurance and speed as they continue to build.

The learning curve for the saw mill will be quick.

Both places to be finished enough before winter hits so families can live through the winter separately and not in trailers.

Need a little encouragement in YOUR calling?

Remember, when you are called, God equips you to do His work! We co-labor with Christ! He is the best boss and partner. Do not grow weary, but embrace His timing, be flexible and show love even when those he's called you to do ministry with are driving you nuts! We all have our purpose. Let grace and joy abound as you work diligently for the One who loves you most and best!!

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Cedar Creek Ministries is funded by Christians and churches who believe in the call to offer our leaders the double portion!

If you feel the desire to make sure all those men and women called to serve God in missions and ministry have everything they need to personally rest, restore family relationships and revive ministry vision, consider joining us in regular prayer and financial support!!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

What do we do when people don't catch our vision?

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 18:54:26 GMT

“Well, no, this couldn’t be from God, that’s definitely not it. You sure are lucky, though.” Words from a relative that sting as we share that God sent a work team to help us build cabin #2!

“We just think your vision is too big and you are doing too many things. We can’t financially get behind you at this time.” Words from a church board member we attended for 15+ years.

Sometimes the people who know you and love you, just DON’T GET IT!

It’s painful.

It’s awful.

In your worst moments it makes you question all the aspects of ministry you know God has led you to walk out.

But I encourage you (and me somedays) to remember:

Some people understand what you are doing instantly.
Some people will come alongside you at different points in your journey.
Some people are called to support other people’s vision.
God called lots of His people to do radical things.
Gideon, David, Noah and Abraham were all called to do big things, go far away places and I’m betting many people didn’t get it and we KNOW many people didn’t follow!

So, go ahead and be a Kingdom builder.

Be a disciple of Jesus Christ who makes disciples who make disciples.

Obey God’s Word.

Be Transformed.

The gate is narrow! Stay on your path!! If you are encouraging people in the Lord and walking in a manner worthy of the calling, then you have it right. Not everyone will understand and not everyone will go with you!!

Go Anyway!

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Cedar Creek Ministries is funded by Christians and churches who believe in the call to offer our leaders the double portion! If you feel the desire to make sure all those men and women called to serve God in missions and ministry have everything they need to personally rest, restore family relationships and revive ministry vision, consider joining us in continual prayer and financial support!!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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5 Ways to Show Love in Action February

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 10:23:00 GMT

Love is an action!

The older I get the more I hate those little conversation candy hearts. There comes a time in every adult's life where the conscious choice must be made to not consume chalk, even if it is only once a year!

Ah, but See's Candy is my favorite. Though not in the shape of hearts to represent the holiday, that box of Nuts and Chews makes me feel loved and understood EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.

Yes, yes, love is an action, but it's also the right action at the right time. Knowing those around you and what makes them feel the most loved is how you show the love of God. God's love is the only love that will never fail us and will fulfill us completely.

So under the disclosure of everyone is different and you have to be thoughtful, let me give you 5 great ways to show your love in action.

5 Ways to Show Your Love in Action:

1. Clean:

Seriously, anything. Clean anything. If you have a spouse who likes things cleaned a certain way, EVEN clean it their way. Love will be all over the place! You don't ever have to clean up love! ;)

2. Do:

There is something that whoever you are trying to love on wants to do. They want to hike or have time to paint. Maybe your loved one wants to go to see a play or take a trip. DO SOMETHING and make it fun!

3. Listen:

Nothing says "not loving" like talking over people, waiting to speak and not taking time to hear the POV of the person who is talking. Learning to listen is a skill believers should have as we are told to put others needs before their own.

4. Give:

Give your time. Give of your money. Give of your tacos...no seriously that last bite of something yummy is the best...which leads me to...

5. Pick the right food:

Knowing people's favorite foods is one of my favorite things. I wish I had a spreadsheet (someone add this to my to do list!) of people's favorite things so I can send them something when I want them to know I'm thinking of them. My friends that love coffee and chocolate are the easiest. I also, as you may have guessed, run in circles where my people can be wooed with a taco or 2! Whether you make a great dinner or take someone you appreciate out to lunch so much good fellowship can happen around food!

I will leave you with this, it is true that love never fails or perseveres, but only when you are using the biblical definition of love...

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."

May our love look like God's definition. May Valentines day with all it's drama and foolishness draw us to the true love of our Father and let us love people well, the way God calls us to in His Word.

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 2000 Christians (out of 67 million professing believers in the U.S.!!) donating $1000 each to fund our facilities project?! Want to join us on our mission in making sure church leaders have a free place to rest when they need it? Donate here !

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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3 Simple Ways to Boost your Prayer Life

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 10:24:02 GMT

When we hosted the Prayer Pledge Drive in February, I was blown away but how much 1 minute of focused prayer felt like at first! If you remember we gathered teams of 5-6 people and everyone picked a pastor to pray over for 1 minute a day for each of the 28 days in February! It was spectacular and helped create some great habits. Here are a few tips we all agreed really helped us all stay focused.

1. Pick the Same time everyday to sit down and pray:

Everyone is different. Give your best minutes of your day to your prayers, not your worst. For me early morning and late night are out, but around 8:30 I could stop with my children and we could take a time of focused prayer. It actually started a time of prayer and worship in our home that continued long after the month ended.

Whether you pray first thing, or find some time in the afternoon to sit quietly and plead on behalf of God's people, the point is that you pray. Schedule the time. Write it on your calendar. Pour your heart out and check your box everyday so you can get into the habit of daily, focused prayer.

2. Outline your topics/people:

This can be as extensive as sitting down and writing a topic of focus each day on your calendar or it can be as simple as taking 30 seconds to jot a few things you don't want to forget on your paper before you go before the Lord. You can use a journal or just a peace of paper you will not keep forever.

Some days I write a list of people and items and go down the list one by one. Other days I brain dump a collage of colors and thoughts for people as I pray for their lives and activities.

Outlining your topics is a great way to keep on track, but remember to be open to the Holy Spirit moving and bringing things and people to your mind.

3. Write or type out your prayers:

Though this is similar in keeping your focus as with outlining, it can be more personal and intense. Instead of speaking your prayers aloud or thinking them in your brain, you just write out your prayers to the Lord. It becomes a sweet, love letter, of sorts about all those in your life who you intercede for. It does take more time and thought, but it really deepens your prayer life in a very rich way.

Don't settle for a boring or non-existent prayer life! Pray daily and purposely!

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 2000 Christians (out of 67 million professing believers in the U.S.!!) donating $1000 each to fund our facilities project?! Want to help make a difference in the lives of church leaders across the country? Donate today!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries and host of the Church Royalty Podcast.

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7 Must Dos while Waiting...and a Really Long Story about a Kid

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Sat, 11 Sep 2021 10:39:37 GMT

If I'm being really honest I'm rarely impressed by people. It happens, but not super often. I don't mean to be harsh, but on the whole, with the exception of those that are working like dogs in vocational ministry, most people I come across seem wanting in some way.

Don't get me wrong! I know how judgey that must sound, but the thing is I adore people and wish the majority of them, Christians particularly, had a higher standard by which they were living their lives.

This extremely long and wordy preface is to let you know that I'm not one for flattery or false praise for the sake of filling words, however I just have to tell you about this rad kid we met in our travels, how he encouraged us and then let him encourage you with some words he jotted down for his daddy's church.

First things first. I should clarify. He is not a kid. He is 25 and quite a nice young man, but at 40, he just seems so young and thus, I will affectionately refer to him as, "kid," from time to time. Humor me.

You know how sometimes someone who is SUPER quiet can come off as a little awkward? Not because there is anything really awkward about them, but because you feel uncomfortable that said introvert isn't a conversation starter. Well...perhaps that would be a good way to give a first impression of this young man of many talents. He's the town golden boy though he doesn't know it or believe. He's keeping his eyes open for a bride though there are a couple ladies around who I'm sure wouldn't turn down a proposal to this pastor's son who just so happens to be a pastor's grandson too which is perhaps how his excellence in character has been rooted so deeply...generations of faithfulness and whatnot.

He is currently building a house on the land next his parents. He loves children and especially has a heart for our Howie's (age 4) launching hugs. I could go on and on into this kid's fabulous qualities in case you know an exceptional Christian woman who wants to settle down with a wood working Engineer in a quaint farming community in the northeast, but I'll just say... I don't generally steal (with permission of course) someone else's words at this length to encourage you, but they are from a good source and a worthy read.

And so with no further delay here it is...an encouragement from a young man who isn't perfect, but is one of the most respectable humans I've encountered in my life. I suspect he just happens to be waiting for God's choice for his bride.

"We all have things we are waiting for. Things that are seemingly so far away that we begin to lose hope. Maybe you're waiting for a prayer to be answered, a broken relationship to be restored, or for the doctors to have a clear path to healing. Maybe you're simply waiting for wisdom to take action. The list is endless and something different comes to mind for each of us.

Even though waiting can be crippling at times and you would rather have the enemy battle-ready in front of you instead of looming in the next valley, you are EXACTLY where God wants you to be. You see, when there is nothing that can be done, nothing that can be said, nothing that can be bought, it is the perfect opportunity for God to show His power. Because then when God moves on our behalf, we have no choice but to acknowledge that it was God that moved and not our own strength.

David waited 15 years after being anointed to become king, Jesus waited 30 years to begin his ministry, Grandpa Bob waited 70 years to shoot his first buck. So whatever it is you find yourself waiting for, take heart, dig in, look up, give thanks for the family that's by your side through the pain, see the sunrise from your foxhole, squeeze out the joy in the small things, and smile knowing that you are fully equipped for when God calls you to do your part. And when that does happen and you hear His voice, jump with all your might and every ounce of your being knowing that the outcome is already planned by the God who spoke the stars into place and is holding you squarely in the palm of His hand."

Exhale sigh of relief.. .

I've read it a good handful of times since the first time because I just so happen to be waiting for something. It was probably around the 5th time or so that I thought...there is a nice "to do" list here for those of us who are waiting!

7 Must "do's" of you are waiting:

1.Take heart:

Gain courage and confidence while you wait.

2.Dig in:

Refuse to give in to the discouragement and lies. Do not be pulled to and fro, but stay rooted in your firm foundation. Greedily consume God's Word. I don't know which he meant by dig in, but they are both valuable analogies.

3.Look up:

Eyes on Jesus people!! Keep an eternal perspective and hold on to the truth of providence and God having a plan that is far better than your own.

4.Give Thanks :

Thankfulness not only breeds joy, but peace in your circumstances. Daily thanksgiving should be a part of every believers life..

5.Build your foxhole:

Sometimes hunkering down in a defensive strategic position is what is required of us. Guard against the fiery darts of the enemy and for Pete's sake keep your armor on at all times!

6.Squeeze out the joy:

Finding joy in your circumstances and in the little things is such a beautiful part of trusting God. If we believe He loves us and is in control then we can find joy in the wildflowers and sunsets.

7.Smile:

Sometimes you just have to do it when you don't want to. Find something that makes you laugh and laugh. Be around people who make you smile, so you can smile.

So from one fellow person longing for a promise of God to another, do the right things everyday. Hold fast to your spiritual disciplines. Chase joy. Breathe Gratitude and keep hope and grace and the forefront of all you do!

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 2000 Christians (out of 67 million professing believers in the U.S.!!) donating $1000 each to fund our facilities project?! Be 1 of the 1965 people left who help us reach our financial goal!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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4 Reasons you Should be Listening to the Church Royalty Podcast

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Tue, 10 Aug 2021 10:25:24 GMT

If you are thinking I'm completely biased and shouldn't be writing this article, you might be right, BUT I will say that I'm often my biggest skeptic and God has showed up in every single of the conversations we have had on the show.

We have had youth pastors, senior pastors, pastors of small church and pastors of mega church satellite campuses. We have had men from all across America who have followed the Lord down roads they knew they were called, but couldn't see all the way.

Every episode is full of faithful testimonies that will inspire, encourage and restore your faith in the men of God who lead American churches.

1. You will find a new love for church leaders across America:

We are skeptical and critical, often looking for flaws in what we see as a broken system. Listening to these anointed and called men of God share their heart for their churches and Christians across the country ministers to deep parts of your soul.

2. You will find hope in the bride of Christ, flawed as she is:

When are eyes are fixed on people you lose hope, but when you hear shepherds talk about their sheep you are moved with compassion for the sheep. When you hear someone share the love they have for someone you are moved to love. We need more of this feeling.

3. There are so many godly men whose voice you may never hear otherwise:

This one really trips me out!! I never knew some of these men and if we had never heeded our call to go forward in ministry, I'd never know the hearts after God that live and breath for their Savior alone. In the same respect, if you don't listen to them, you will miss the sweet blessing of knowing these men (Season 1: Pastors) too.

4. We share some hard truths that it is time you hear:

We ask tough questions and discuss painful topics. They are conversations that need to be both had and heard. Many of our episodes stir as much conviction as they do hope.

Not a podcast person? Boy do I get that, but trust me, you want to be.

Want to listen? Here you go!

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 2000 Christians (out of 67 million professing believers in the U.S.!!) donating $1000 each to fund our facilities project?! Be 1 of the 1965 people left who help us reach our financial goal!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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5 Reasons you Should Start your Ministry

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Sun, 11 Jul 2021 10:26:32 GMT

When you are walking in your calling with purpose even the most challenging of moments and circumstances are full of life and hope. As we have been traveling this last year my heart has been heavy with grief over the wasted years.

Was the Lord training and preparing us? Yes!

Has He redeemed our testimony? Of course!

Did we find purpose in the ministries we were a part of before? Without a doubt!

Were we comfortable and happy and spiritual gluttons? Well, you may be starting to see a pattern here, the answer to this one is yes too!

When I look at our lives in our beautiful house, facilitating ministries, serving and teaching all while in good, strong fellowship and having a grip of babies, I look back with fondness, but I do wish we would have started this journey sooner. Perhaps it was all God's perfect timing and so I always take captive my thoughts, but my mind also often wanders to those who are not walking in their calling.

Are we all called to sell all our worldly possessions and hit the road to minister to the nation like the New Testament believers we read about? I suppose not, BUT we are called to obey the Lord where ever He has called us to be and there are too many Christians waiting to start their ministry out of fear or because they feel like their season of life is too busy to take on just one more thing.

One right thing is better than all the things!!!

If you know God has placed a ministry on your heart, you should go ahead and start it...like TODAY.

5 Reasons you Should Start your Ministry...like TODAY:

1. It can take a REALLY long time to build momentum:

Just the paperwork alone if you are going the 501c3 route is enough to make a person want to give up. There are places you can use like LegalZoom that make the process go much easier for you. It still takes time and money so just start slow, but start.

2. If you are not walking out your purpose you are wasting your life:

I know we need jobs and money and provision and all that, and I'm not advocating being irresponsible, BUT if the Lord is calling you to step out then you have to trust that He will provide and you may not use fear as an excuse.

3. Seasons will not get less busy unless you make them so:

We have 8 children. On my worst days, I look at our God and I say, "Couldn't you have sent someone with less children?" And yes, He ncould have, but he didn't! He chose us in all our imperfections with our grip of littles to travel the country in a camper for who knows how long while we run his errands. Do not use your blessings as excuses.

4. People need you RIGHT now and you don't even know it:

We didn't know there were people who needed what we are offering years before. We didn't know the Lord had placed our vision on the hearts of other faithful believers who had grown weary and given up. If the Lord is calling you, the I implore you to be willing to go because He wants to use you.

5. Many are called, but few heed the call:

When the Bible says the harvest is plentiful and the workers are few, He isn't kidding! There is a ton of work to be done to reap the harvest and there are so few people willing to work that it discourages the most steadfast soul. Walk forward in your calling.

Well, there you have it. No more excuses. Be faithful in your gifting's and go where you are called to go. God is faithful and even if you are paralyzed with fear, embrace the power of the Holy Spirit and move forward in spite of yourself.

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 2000 Christians (out of 67 million professing believers in the U.S.!!) donating $1000 each to fund our facilities project?! Be 1 of the 1965 people left who help us reach our financial goal!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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How to Know if you are a Church Leech

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 10:27:40 GMT

The nice guys like to call them "the consumer church" goers...I believe I have coined a new phrase that though not as gracious, creates a fabulous visual comparison we can all agree is loathsome.

In last month's article I shared my first experience with the concept of church "takers"...the ones who constantly need and take and rarely if ever give. They always ask to be served and complain when their needs aren't being met.

My husband and I recently had some heated fellowship about calling people out on their weaknesses. He said I lacked tact. Probably true. I said he sugar coated things making weaknesses appear to be strengths. Probably also true. However as I found myself apologizing to a friend who my husband said I was harsh with he responded with something I will not soon forget.

"Accepted. Your words challenge and strengthen me, carry on."

The hard truth is we don't really want to be more like Christ if we are not willing to change! We will not grow if we are only receiving false praise and never looking to be challenged or strengthen by the wounds of our friends. We must not seek the kisses of the world, when believers are speaking truth into our lives.

Let's make one idea very clear:

God's church is designed to be a healthy body of properly functioning parts. (Eph 4:4, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 ) I'm not making this stuff up, it's actually in the bible. God calls us all to be different parts and when we are all working well in our full capabilities the body flourishes!

So, let's get down to it. How do you know if you are a healthy, "normal" church goer or if you are in danger of or have already become a church leech.

You may be a church leech if:

You do not tithe.
You do not serve.
You complain about worship.
You complain about the leadership.
You always find something wrong
You gossip
You have never met your pastor.

If you are reading through these justifying the to yourself, please STOP IT.

Your church needs you to be a part of the body. Just like our physical bodies, when all the parts are working how they are supposed to a great many things can be accomplished! As far as it concerns us as the body of believers, we do not want to be the malfunctioning part! So often I think we are worried we are going to mess something up with our imperfections but the truth is it's our not even showing up that is preventing the body, YOUR local body from working at it's full, God given capacity!

So I implore you, as a fellow servant of the Most High God to tithe, serve, be content, stop complaining, look for the good, encourage, be a peacemaker and introduce yourself to your pastor with a thank you note and a gift card for some coffee or lunch on you!

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 2000 Christians (out of 67 million professing believers in the U.S.!!) donating $1000 each to fund our facilities project?! Be 1 of the 1965 people left who help us reach our financial goal!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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Don't be a Church Leech. Walk Worthy

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 10 May 2021 10:28:54 GMT

I remember the first time it happened. I shared with the family and marriage pastor at our church an idea I thought would benefit the church and his ministry. He said it was a great idea and then hemmed and hawed for a couple minutes. In my confusion, I asked him if he was just being nice saying he liked the idea. He wasn't going to hurt my feelings. I gave him permission to speak freely and asked what he was really thinking. His reply went something like this:

Well...I really like the idea...insert long pause...and I really see the value and the need...but...really long pause...(my mind was reeling over what he could possibly say!!) the thing is...I know this is terrible to say, but....I just don't have the time to take on one more thing right now.

And then he almost visibly flinched to await my response.

"Oh, I said, well, I was going to do it, but if you there is a reason you would rather someone else handle it I can find someone you trust."

In that moment I thought maybe he just didn't trust me to run an event, but when the visible relief took over his entire body and his eyebrows went up, I knew it had to be something else.

"Are you serious? You want to do this yourself? You aren't asking me to do it?"

As the conversation went on I learned a few things that you should know:

People ask pastors and ministry leaders to do things all the time and don't even offer to serve!!
People are offended when leadership doesn't implement their idea, EVEN IF they aren't willing to put in any time themselves!

It is many years later and we travel full time visiting churches across the country and it seems not much has changed in Christian America as far as church goers seeking an experience for themselves and not really wanting to participate themselves.

I do not write this to condemn the world of Christians who camp here, but I implore you, dearest reader, to not be one of them.

And so I will encourage all of us to walk worthy and at the very least, do not be a church leech.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries and host of the Church Royalty Podcast.

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Theology of Giving

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 10:38:12 GMT

When an organization chooses t o co-labor with the body of Christ in ministry, the question of money always comes up in one way or another. As believers in Christ we understand we are stewarding God's resources for the glory of His purposes. Sometimes I have to wonder though if what we are "believing" in theory actually processes in our actions in real life.

Let's get a couple things straight first:

Our God is rich. He is the Creator of all things. He owns everything and needs nothing from us.
(Col 1:16-17, Ps 50:7-12)

Everything we have has been given to us by God.
(1 Chron 29:14-16, Psalm 24:1)

We have been bought with a price and God has rightful claim to all we are and all we have.
(1 Cor 6:20, 1 Pet. 1:18-19)

It is more blessed to give than to receive.
(Acts 20:35)

O.K. Now that we got that out of the way... I have a quick story.

Recently as a pastor was sharing with us what a blessing our social media was, he said something that really struck me. After his praise of our content and his frustration in our lack of likes/followers I asked him why he didn't share our content on his social media. His response hit me like a ton of bricks.

"Well, I don't share your posts because it's self serving." I, of course, threw my head back dramatically and let out a long frustrated sigh.

What he was basically saying was that he wasn't going to share our posts because he didn't want to seem like he was looking for the benefits as a pastor. Well isn't that a conundrum!! Here we are looking to serve him and his general profession and he doesn't want to share, even though he loves and supports what we are doing because he doesn't want to be self-serving in action. It's noble. It's also incredibly deflating to a content creator.

It is in this same light I'm tempted to NOT talk about money...I mean, hey, we are raising a couple million dollars for facilities this could get weird and fast.

But here is the thing...if I don't talk about money then:

I rob people of the blessing of giving.
Christians don't get to labor with us for their church leadership.
I neglect the idea that stewardship of finances is a huge part of our faith as believers.
God's people do not get the opportunity to bless their church leadership on a massive scale.

God loves a cheerful giver and so do we! We aren't even saying we'd love if you'd give to us (though we would, of course!), but you should be giving! For us and our ministry, our confidence is in the Lord, not in money. The calling is upon us. The money will come.

God has that part!!

The question begs to be asked though...do YOU want to be a part of what God is doing?

Do you want to be a part of Cedar Creek Ministries?

Do you want to be a part of Samaritans Purse?

Do you want to adopt an orphan?

Do you believe everything you have is God's and you can freely without worry that He will provide?

What are you doing with your money that reflects a heart after God's business? What are you doing with your financial resources that is going to have an eternal significance in this life and the next?

As you pray and move forward thinking about where the Lord would have you give, consider if He is calling you to join us in our passion to help church leaders rest, restore and revive.

We are to esteem those who are laboring in the Lord for our sake.

"We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves." 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13

"Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith." Hebrews 13:7

Share your favorite place to give! We want the blessing of being able to partake in the Lord's business too!!

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 2000 Christians donating $1000 each to fund our facilities project?! Be 1 of the 1976 people left who can help us achieve our vision.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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Servant Leadership: 5 Great articles to encourage

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 05 Apr 2021 10:36:26 GMT

You know what really helps church leaders? Servants!! LOL!! I know, I know we always need something from you! Seriously though, one of the best ways you can serve your church leaders is by working in your giftings at your church. If there is something you are capable of doing and may not be in your actual giftings, but there is a need, then you should do that too!!

Here are a few (5 to be exact) articles sharing their perspectives on serving. I thought one or more might sway you to get involved if you aren't already.

Did you know ministry leadership is really all about serving?
Here is a great read of 12 Ways to Serve Your Pastor Well . This is a REALLY great list!
Servant leaders are the best kind. This one is a fun read even if you already serve.
Still not convinced you should be serving? Here is a really sweet read that may change your mind.
Ready to serve, but still really curious about what options are available for serving? This one is for you!

One of my favorite pastors always says his job is so much easier when people are serving in their giftings. When we are serving in our God given strengths we are less work for those above us. We are careful and passionate and focused on how to bring God glory in our actions for the purpose of blessing the body.

There are a lot of articles out there that express what a blessing it is to us to serve and that is true, but our blessings are not to be our focus for why we serve. What we know how to do well should be shared with other believers particularly in our body of believers because what we have been given is God's to use as He sees fit. He will always seek to have you work in a way that brings Him glory so people can ultimately come to know His salvation and grown in their relationship as disciples of Christ.

2 points I must make before we finish.

1. You are not above menial tasks at your church .

If the trash needs to be taken out or the toilet needs to be cleaned then do it. We are all working as unto the Lord here and if something needs to be done, please do it.

2. If you think you have no giftings:

Then you either need to take one of those tests to see where they are OR you need to get over yourself by not thinking about yourself so very often. Contrary to what the culture is currently telling you, IT. IS. NOT. ABOUT. YOU.

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 2000 Christians donating $1000 each to fund our facilities project?! Is God calling you to serve alongside us with a financial contribution? We have to ask!! Click here if He is calling you to get involved!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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3 Conversations Christians shouldn't be having

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 10:35:08 GMT

Yesterday we visited Renew Church in Miami Florida. We were greeted by friendly though masked faces with joy in their voice and demeanor. The people were welcoming, the children loved children's church and our older children and adults enjoyed the enthusiastic worship and passionate message from the youth pastor who happened to be teaching the main service!! I love showing up when the youth pastor is teaching!! It was even communion Sunday! Blessed morning no doubt.

Pastor Mikie, as his co-laborers lovingly refer to him spoke about there were some conversations we just didn't need to be having because they were not glorifying to God and they didn't help people walk out their faith well.

Thinking about the message and re-reading my notes filled me with a deep sense of remorse over past conversations in both real life and om social media that were genuinely worthless and DID NOT help anyone grow in the faith or love in Christ.

I will be the the absolute first to admit, I LOOOOVE a good conversation even if it gets a bit heated. I love people and their opinions and I even like to know why people believe opposite of me! But the hard truth is not all conversations need to be had...please do not confuse this with the hard conversations that DO need to be had, but that is a post for another day. There are times to be quiet and times to let it go because as far as it concerns us we are to live peaceably with all men.

Conversations you are trying to win:

Some of us are born with more fight than flight. I thought I was going to be a lawyer for the first 20 some years of my life. I also love people and love to hear everyone's opinions on everything. But alas...I hate when people have wrong opinions! HA! In all seriousness though some of us should just stay clear of apologetics because it makes us want to fight. If we are thinking, AT ALL, "Oh I'm going to win this!" then, perhaps it's a conversation we don't need to be having.

Idolatress conversations:

O.K. I'm not sure I want to go toe to toe with Jack Hibbs on this one, but some of the political conversations believers have been having the last several months have been straight up idolatrous. There shouldn't be any conversations we are engaging in that any man or country is going to save us from evil...I mean besides Jesus. I'm not saying at all that we can't be political or that we shouldn't expect good men to stand up and fight for what is right. I am saying tht we need to be careful to keep our Savior who He is and not let our emotions stir us into a frenzy.

Conversations that stir up dissension and strife:

I love a good conversation and even debate and with a certain kind of person debates can get heated and still end peaceably, but let's be honest...it's rare! There are some "non salvational" topics that really don't need to be so heated.

We need to be ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us...and so we need to be careful to not be total donkeys in regulars life and conversations so people can see our hope and want to learn more!

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 20,000 Christians donating $100 each to fund our facilities project?! Co-labor with God and us in creating a place for your leaders to rest, restore and revive.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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3 Things to look for when you walk into a church function!

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 18 Jan 2021 10:33:03 GMT

Sitting across my kitchen table sat a lovely woman whose youngest son happened to be the same age as my oldest. Our families were having dinner getting the general feel to see if we were going to be a good fit for everyday friends. We had children who really liked each other and that was a great start.

My new friend worked full time and her children were in school everyday. I stayed home and homeschooled my children. The fact I hadn't met her before was not a big deal in light of our different schedules.

I assumed she went to bible study Monday nights when I went Thursday mornings. When I asked about bible study, she froze. I had felt her out. She seemed to really love the Lord. Her husband and her had precious testimonies. We loved their children. Why was she freezing up talking about bible study.

She didn't go. It just wasn't for her.

I couldn't let it go.

Why not?

And then with a deep sigh she relived the night she went to bible study, nobody talked to her and she felt completely ostracized or at the very least ignored.

I wanted to defend the women I know...the women who had loved on me the last decade of my Christian life. I wanted to say someone must have smiled at you or said hello or tried to make friends, but I couldn't because I could tell by her face she had fallen through the cracks.

She had fallen victim to the church where the bonding has already happened, the fellowship was already in friend groups and she caught a bad (and hopefully rare) night when nobody looked her way.

This would have happened to me to, if I wasn't an extrovert who just barged my way into people's lives and conversations.

I told her I was so sorry. I invited her to go with me one night so I could introduce her to people. I hugged her even though we both felt uncomfortable at first. She said she would try again with me, but never did.

Maybe you have been there. Maybe you are there now. Maybe, just maybe, you have been in the same room with someone at church who feels unloved and ignored.

My friends, may it not be so!!!

Here are 3 things to look for whenever you walk into a church event.

Someone standing or sitting alone: Introduce yourself. Ask a few questions. People who finally get up enough resolve to go to church and have their feelings hurt that they appeared invisible, don't historically come back to church. Look around for the lonely people and be friendly! They are likely introverted so keep asking questions until they feel comfortable!!!

Someone looking around confused: Introduce yourself. Ask if they need help finding anything. Even as we have visited churches for the first time I do this. I have helped people find the bathroom and childcare even though I didn't really know where something was. I have also noticed when I was lost and people helped me...or didn't. It is the difference in making someone feel at home or uneasy and let's just not give Satan a thing to work with!

Women with children: Tell them you are glad they are here. Compliment their children. Say something positive about motherhood. Nothing is worse that working diligently to get all your children fed and out the door to church just to hear some old lady tell you, "I sure am glad that season is over!" Don't be someone who acts like children are a burden when God calls them a blessing! Be an encourager and love on those mamas who are worn out and fought hard to get there!

Being at an event at church can be really challenging for some people. Look for opportunities to love on people! Love makes all the difference.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement! We love and need your support as we raise money for facilities that offer rest and restoration for church leaders. Just 20,000 Christians giving $100 would get us to our goal!!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

January 18, 2021

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Jesus, trees, stockings and an elf on the shelf

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 14 Dec 2020 10:31:23 GMT

With all the traditions of man and the church surrounding us, it's interesting to watch and observe which Christians hold to which ideologies. As a large family with young children we often discuss the true meaning of Christmas and the truth of what the Bible says about the birth of Jesus.

This year we are living tiny in our travel trailer, close to where we used to call home with our tiny tree and our Dollar Tree ornaments. We will eat dinner with my mother and attend a Christmas Eve service, but what does it matter if we let the hustle and bustle of December blend into the rest of life leaving Jesus as yet another afterthought.

Here is what I desperately try to keep in:

Little overlooked aspects of the birth of Jesus story
Scripture
Advent activities
The idea that though we celebrate Jesus's birth in December many scholars believe he was probably born in the spring.
Watch nativity movies.

What we do for fun but work to not let take away from the truth of Jesus's birth in the gospel:

Decorate a tree
Bake cookies
Drink peppermint coffee and hot chocolate
Watch movies about Santa

As a long time Berrien and woman who spent many years deceived by empty philosophies of this world I have struggled with what to let into the Christmas season. With grandparents we've never been able to be completely rid of the commercialism of the holidays. They buy more gifts than we can store, but it's how they show love so we try not to gripe and be ungrateful.

We don't pretend Santa is real, but we share with the children how fun it is for parents to pretend with their children. We don't let them spoil it for other children.

We notice some churches have Christmas trees and some don't. Some focus on the Jewish traditions which is lovely. I know families who love Jesus who move the elf every night. We know families who love Jesus who only put out a large nativity to keep the focus on Jesus.

It's special to celebrate births and lives everyday. This Christmas Season we, here at Cedar Creek Ministries, wish you the most peaceful and gracious time with your family however you choose to celebrate the birth of our Savior.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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3 Fun Gifts for your Pastor this Christmas!

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 10:30:09 GMT

Just like any other human, all pastors are different. To really give a great gift you should take the time to know your pastor and his favorite things. Does he love his Traeger? Perhaps meat is the way to go. Is he a die hard Chiefs fan? That's easy! Grab him some garb or tickets to a game.

I will tell you right now, there is nothing on this list that is going to replace a well thought out gift. Feel free to ask his wife or the elders what the pastor loves so you can get something that will be loved and appreciated.

That being said, let's get to this!!

1: The best pastor mug I've ever seen:
Given the way Christians obsess over coffee, I'm thinking pastors might get a coffee related mugs and gifts frequently. I'm not even sure this mug is one every pastor would love or sport for his daily grind, but I think it's hilarious and fun. This mug will be enjoyed by almost all who read it. Some of us do end up in the sermons and may not find the joke as funny as others.

2. Funny Socks:
I don't know what kind of socks my pastor wears. As I type this out I'm really torn between wanting to know and REALLY not wanting to know what socks he sports on Sundays. If he happens to wear fun dress socks I'll be tempted to buy all the socks. If he just wears plain ol' socks I feel like I'll be disappointed. But I digress. Many men have on the fancy socks these days. If your pastor is a fancy pastor who is clothed in dress pants while he teaches from the pulpit, I say you get him fun socks ! Or check out these socks that will remind your pastor of all the Lord brought him through in 2020. Quick tip: If he shows up to preach in flip flops skip the socks!

3: Money, gift cards, subscription boxes!
At first thought, these gifts might not seem fun to you, but they are the gifts that keep on giving. Money is a nice treat at Christmas time because we all think of last minute items we wanted that we didn't ask for or get. Having money given to you is always such a blessing. We may never really know how people live on a daily basis.

Gift cards are kind of like the thoughtful money, right. Oh, you couldn't think of the perfect idea, so you did the next best thing and bought money for a specific place. It makes the giver feel better than if he just gave straight cash. However, though I have known many people who have stood on their soap boxes and refused to give cash or gift cards I've never known a recipient to be disappointed.

Remember it might be difficult for your pastor to keep trinkets, as cute as you think they are. Be thoughtful and practical about any gift you choose to give to your church leadership this year. They will appreciate being appreciated, that is for sure.

Thank you for sharing your time with us. We could sure use your help to serve more ministry leaders faster!! Want to help? Click here .

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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Help us Reach our Goal!

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 10:21:46 GMT

We want to send 10 ministry leaders on overnights with their spouse!! We want prayers for pastor's and their families to be a part of every home! Join us in making these goals realities!

See what Amos has to say about it here .

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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Top Reasons to be Thankful for Your Pastor's Wife

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 23 Nov 2020 10:20:35 GMT

I wasn't always friend's with "the pastor's wife, " but some of the women I hold most dear today are pastor's wives. They are a uniquely sturdy, delicate breed of women, hand chosen by God to be much of what their husband needs for him to fulfill his calling to be a pastor. Pastor's wives are lovely. They are precious. They have been gifted a high calling. They are human and not perfect, so remember, dear reader, to think before you speak. They are a privilege to know and love. Even if you don't know yours well, there are many reasons to be thankful for them...here are just a few!

She is your pastor's helpmate:

In the glorious way God designed marriage, he deemed the woman a helpmate. The intricacies of what this looks like have been debated over centuries, so we will not preach them here in this brief post. Perhaps it needs to be said though that the helpmate is a glorious and selfless position of encouraging and building up another human for the glory of God. All husbands need this by design, but I believe those called by God into ministry need it on a whole different level. Pastor's wives are amazingly selfless and generally gracious women. They have to be because their calling is brutal and challenging.

Manages the home so your pastor can have more time to work:

Particularly in a child rearing season of life, a pastor's wife becomes the caretaker of the home and children. A pastor must biblically have a well managed and behaved family to be able to walk out his calling. This isn't a standard of perfection or even necessarily order in a way that you see fit, but that works for their family. Remember you don't get to manager your pastor, his wife or their family. That is the job of your dear pastor's wife. Tell her she's doing a great job. Come along side her and help. Be an encourager to her. Heck, send a cleaning lady over once a month!!

Selflessly embraces her role:

I've actually never known a pastor's wife to own up to this because all the ones I know are incredibly humble and brutally honest, but the hard truth is you see it their actions, particularly toward their own families and husbands. They are shining examples of how to guard and protect family time because theirs is so precious and limited. They see their husband's work for the Lord and want to support it in any way they can. For many that means making sure the home is a place of refuge for their husband, their bellies are full and their children are disciplined and happy. Of course, pastors, like all fathers, parent and are included in all aspects of parenting and life, but for pastor's wives and perhaps military and first responder wives, the role is different. These women embrace their calling selflessly knowing they are called to a greater good. It's quite beautiful.

Serves where needed:

Particularly in the small churches you see the pastor's wives being a tremendous help anywhere and everywhere needed. What you may see most on Sunday is them doing their good work in children's church!! Oh boy is there always a need there, especially when our brood shows up! Ha!! Seriously though, when there is need and there is nobody to fill it, you often see a pastors wife greeting the congregation with a baby on her hip, teaching Sunday school, or organizing the church picnic. They do so much we don't see or take for granted. I'm so thankful. You should be too!

God uses her to fill in a great many gaps:

I'm a fire wife with a sister who is a police wife and tons of friends with husband's in the military. Our lives are more challenging than many with our husband's crazy schedules and dangerous jobs. Military wives have husband's who leave for months at a time. Fire husbands can leave for weeks at a time. We all know it and prepare for our "seasons" without our husbands. Pastor's wives, though, really have it tough because they have no "season". Many of their husband's are available 24/7, 365 days a year and can spoil a precious family moment at the drop of a time. Tragedy doesn't often strike at convenient times and pastor's are the men who Christians run to when tragedy strikes. Consider how often these women have to fill in the gaps for their godly husband's when they are away dealing with life's most terrible moments. They have to play whatever role is needed to minister to their family. They may have to coach a game or fix the bike or whatever other task was on the dad's to do list for the day. Even if their husband normally handles that part of life, pastor's wives have to fill in the gaps. Be thankful they are there, so your pastor can come minister to you.

She holds down the fort:

In some ways this is so similar to the filling in the gaps point that I almost didn't add it, but the truth is filling in the gaps and holding down the fort are different to me. Holding down the fort means you are in charge while the leader is away. A Christian wife, and I'll venture out and say particularly a pastor's wife has to be in charge while the leader is away. We believe the husband is the leader of the family, right? This obviously comes more naturally to some moms than others, but it is not without it's challenges. There may not be a "wait until your father comes home" sort of time frame with a pastor's wife which puts more leadership responsibility on her more often than may be in a lay Christians home. Handing authority back to a father and husband as head of the house can be challenging when they aren't able to be home as much as the mother and pastor's wives have to do this more often. What a blessing to know these women hold down the fort while their husband's handle God's work and ministering to their flock.

Side note:

Many pastors are extroverts and very likely have introvert wives which is a great fit for their family. Be careful to not expect a pastor's wife to be your women's leader. It happens, of course, but please be careful to know that it is not always the case. My heart has broken a great many times to hear women say things along the lines of how "their pastors wife" is just not friendly or social or whatever. It maddens me to think of how quickly we assume the worst in people. Most of the time anyone who falls into those categories, is just shy or has been burned by people who say foolish things. Be careful not to think you know someone, particularly a pastor's wife, if you really don't.

Special prayers for your pastor's wife:

Give her the strength to be a humble servant.
Give her the discernment to know what she can do to best help her husband achieve God's vision for their church.
Give her energy and good health.
Send people to help her when she needs it most.
Help her to have good godly women in her life to build her up and encourage her.
Multiply her time.
Let her always choose to draw near to You, first and foremost.

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know if only 20,000 Christians gave $100 we could purchase a facility to help 100's of Christians rest, restore and revive every year. Please consider being a part of the change in American church culture today by making a one-time donation to support church leaders.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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3 Reasons to be Thankful for your Pastor

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 10:19:23 GMT

When I think of the ways our pastors teach us, serve us and help us grow spiritually, I'm overwhelmed with gratitude! Are you? How often do we find ourselves thanking God for our pastor instead of staring at his life through a microscope. There are hundreds of reasons to be thankful for your pastor, and mine for that matter, but here are 3 of my personal favorites.

1. Pastors layout the direction of the church:
We've heard it say that sometimes God gives one man a vision and then walks with him through the trials it takes to get to seeing that vision fulfilled. Though generally all pastors are concerned with serving their congregation well, teaching and outreach, God gives very specific visions to different pastors across the country and nation. It is a privilege to serve alongside a pastor with a vision. These godly men have callings on their lives and because of that we should be so thankful. Whether it's for orphans, clean water, biblical counseling discipleship or testimonies, whatever biblical direction your pastor has been called is a blessing worth being thankful for!

2. Teach and minister to us with weekly encouragement and admonishment from the Lord:
This is the most common job Christians associate with being a pastor, but are we really thankful for what this is in our lives? Are we thankful that our pastors take the time to go before the Lord and prepare thoughtful, biblical messages to help us thrive and grow in our Christian walk. We tend to criticize and keep our focus self centered, but the fact that God has ordained people to do this in our lives is such a fantastic blessing.

3. Pastors walk with us through life's greatest highs and lows:
Perhaps it's easier to take for granted to be thankful for the role pastors play in life's most challenging times. When there is death, betrayal or even a great many victories our pastors are there with condolences, prayers and edification. They marry us and speak at the funerals of those we loved most. They make hospital visits, house calls and take middle of the night phone calls when tragedy strikes. They are available to their congregations day after day and year after year. What a reason to be thankful!!!

There are so many more reasons to be thankful for your pastors, but I'm going to leave you with a quick bonus of ideas on how you can pray for your pastor,

Prayers for your pastor...Lord,

help me to be thankful for my pastor and not be critical
bless their family
multiply their time
give them wisdom and discernment
let them give their burdens to you on a daily basis
give them a safe place to rest
help them restore any broken family relationships
revive their ministry visions so they may walk in your calling.

Amen

Did you know it will only take 20,000 Christians donating $100 each to fund our facilities project?! Be 1 of the 20,000 who joins us in creating a place where leaders can come with their families, on their own time table to rest, restore and revive.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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7 Reasons to be Thankful for your Large Church

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 09 Nov 2020 10:18:05 GMT

As I write this post I'm so homesick for my own church, that my eyes are full of tears that refuse to overflow. The church we visited yesterday was a medium size church where the pastor sang while he played the piano during worship, gave the announcements and then taught the message. When the message was over he sat back down at the piano and let 3 more songs to conclude the service. His wife was working in one of the children's classes. They started the church 24 years ago and were enduring through the trials Covid 19 and state restrictions brought this year. They were full of joy, had servants hearts and loved every human that walked through their doors. Even though it wasn't a small church, they noticed us walk in and introduced themselves with smiling eyes.

Our home church would be considered a large church with it's 3 weekend services and 11 pastors. It's the only church I've really ever served the Lord in so you couldn't really even tell me going to a large church has it's drawbacks. Home is home. Though I have been able to see the benefits of a small church as we have traveled and using my imagination of what I dream to be true, my home church has my heart, as many large churches could. Let me tell you why you should be thankful if you go to a large church.

7 Reasons to be Thankful for your Large Church

1. Many opportunities to serve:

When there are a whole slew of ministries there are so many opportunities to serve. There is always a need and finding your place can come quickly and without effort. As an added bonus if the first place you are serving is a terrible fit for you, there are likely other opportunities to find your place. When I first gave my life over to the Lord's leading I served on a women's decorating team for our large annual women's retreat. For 3 years, I did what was needed and what I was told and helped create beautiful things for women to enjoy. I hated it. I wasn't great at it, but I loved the women I served with and I grew leaps and bounds along side them meeting after meeting. One day, in the midst of a detailed conversation about centerpieces I broke into tears. I just had nothing to offer the conversation and really didn't care in the least what would decorate the dinner tables on our retreat weekend. Off to Jr. High ministry I skipped. I served there until I was married with a child of my own. There was a place for me. Even after children and throughout the different seasons of life and motherhood there was often a place to serve, even if it was only once a month or managing a ministry from home.

2. Lots of service times to choose from:

Oh I do love a church that has a Saturday night service, especially when you just happen to be close to church at the right time and get to just pop in. We are 1st service Sunday folk though normally. With children that wake up at the crack of dawn there is no reason to not just up and go to church and spend the rest of the day lounging around. But if you happen to miss Saturday night and 1st service on Sunday the large churches generally have a 2nd service too!! The family can always go straight to lunch and enjoy the rest of the afternoon. I will say 2nd service is tough to sit through when you are really hungry.

3. Special events:

When you go to a large church that hosts special events, you get first word on tickets, have opportunities to serve and often get to meet people you wouldn't normally get to. It's a perk for sure!

4. Pastor specializations:

I mentioned my home church has 11 pastors. Our senior pastor teaches the Sunday services. There are other pastors who oversee other ministries as well. When you are blessed to be in a large church the jobs can be spread out a bit leaving more room for a family/marriage pastor to meet the needs of those struggling in their marriage. Of course youth pastors and administrative pastors are more common, but in really large churches there can be pastors who handle military, first responders, home fellowships and so on. It's a blessing for sure to have leadership enough to meet the needs of the many congregants.

5.Financial resources:

Let's face it; more people, more money, generally. I know we all hate to talk about money, but it's how there is money for resources the people in the congregation use to hire more pastors, give more benevolence and offer up more programs.

6.Ministries by interest:

There is a special blessing that comes when like minded believers get to do things they love together. You can often find softball teams, fishing group, sewing ministries and book clubs at larger churches which makes it easier to do life together. There are also many outreach opportunities with ministries like this.

7.Ministries by age group or season of life:

This is seen as a benefit to most people who love their big church. It's a double edge sword really. Breaking off by age or season negates the biblical responsibility the older women have to teach the younger women and I hate that. That being noted though, there is a great blessing in Moms groups, youth groups and young adult ministries.

Don't forget last's weeks post on the blessings of small churches. Where ever the Lord has called you to be, there are blessings to be seen. These posts are meant to stir up a love for where you are and give you hope if you have not quite found your home church yet. I will tell you with all truth, there are good, God-fearing men out there pastoring churches well, both large and small.

We travel the country and see the need for pastors and their families to have a place to individually rest, restore family relationships and revive their ministry visions. God has given men across the country great callings in their communities. We take them to lunch, send them on date nights and overnight mini retreats while we raise money to prepare a place for them to rest in Montana. Should you feel led to join us on this journey you can donate here . We long for the body of Christ

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This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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7 Reasons to be Thankful if you Attend a Small Church!

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 02 Nov 2020 10:16:53 GMT

My adore my home church which would probably be considered a larger church, but I have always envied my friends who worship in smaller churches. As a believer you go where God calls you to be and you find your place there large or small. I believe the church is designed to be a family and you work out your problems and stay with those people unless God calls you somewhere else.

In our recent travels we have visited smaller churches we could easily call home if we lived there. There are 2 church plants that immediately come to mind. They were overflowing with love and kindness. The rooms we met in were small and cozy and the teachings were fierce and full of God's truth.

My prayer for you, if you are reading this, is you are content where you are knowing you have a place to serve God's people in a family. If you are still church hopping and trying to decide or in a rut in your own small church, I hope God will use this to stir up love for the small church in your heart.

7 Reasons to be Thankful if you Attend a Small Church!

1.Everybody knows everybody:

If church is meant to be a family of believers living life together then knowing everyone at every service and function is a blessing indeed. People know your likes and dislikes. People know the names of all your children. There is a peace that overcomes you in dark times when you can walk into your church and anyone in the room can pray for you, hug you or give you an apt word of encouragement. It should be noted this can happen in a large church too if you are constantly involved, serving and staying plugged in.

2.People notice when your family doesn’t show up:

Now, I will say in a larger church, the people who sit by you week after week, may notice if you are not there and may ever reach out to you if you are REALLY good friends, but at a small church, people really notice when your family doesn't show up. When recently visiting a lovely church in Virginia, the children and I showed up one Sunday and we were greeted with great exuberance. People asked the children's names, they set out more chairs for us. We are quite a large group. It was such a warm welcome. They didn't know us at all. We were blessed to make it back to that church the next week, and a man we had only spoken to for a moment the week before yelled from across the parking lot, "You made it back!" What a pleasure to be noticed when we only had the blessing of joining their congregation for 2 weeks.

3.Accountability is easily sustainable:

If we are honest with ourselves and honest with God, we are in desperate need of people who will call us on our sin and set the standard for righteousness in our lives as achievable. Knowing fewer people at church more intimately means there can be genuine accountability that God can use to bring about change. This can happen in small groups at large churches too, but what if the whole church came along side you?!!

4.You know when there is a need and can meet the need:

People get sick, have babies, have family members that die suddenly. When you know everyone then you can serve them quickly and meet their needs personally. This is such a huge part of belonging to a body of believers who knows you intimately. Prayers come more naturally with friends who you fellowship with too! More points for the quaint congregations!

5.Quick integration of new families:

It is so easy for newcomers to quickly find their place in a small church, partly because there is surely a job to be done and partly because there is no place to get lost.

6.Feels like family immediately: Family is the goal.

Your church should feel like family. Your church should feel like home. You shouldn't feel lost or unseen, but in a family where you have a place and a purpose. As with many of these points, I must say I have felt this for years in my large church, however I was shocked to feel it immediately in small churches on my first visit.

7.More opportunity to discuss messages in depth with your pastors:

We have always had the benefit of knowing our pastors well enough, but truth be told they are in high demand. I always say seeing them at church is like seeing Tigger at Disneyland. There are lines of people waiting to talk to them, not always in the traditional sense, but congregants hovering, hoping to get a moment with the man at the pulpit. The blessing of a small church is that there is time for everyone to not only speak to their pastor, but to get to know him and discuss things with him.

Next week I will write about all to be thankful for at a large church. I truly believe God calls us to where we are most needed, not necessarily where we are most comfortable. Will you allow love and gratitude to reign in your heart wherever the Lord has you?

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Our passion at Cedar Creek Ministries is to serve pastors and ministry leaders! We would love your help in serving those who serve us so well.

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This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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Why Pastors are Awesome? Part 2

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 19 Oct 2020 10:15:47 GMT

Maybe you saw my post last week sharing my personal stories about why I love pastors and I know so many people that have so many personal stories about the way pastors have blessed them and their families. Just in case you like lists, I came up with one to support pastors' awesomeness!

They:

give us the truth of God's Word
give wise counsel
take our middle of the night phone calls
pray for us and our families
sacrifice time with their own families
manage church business
are held to a higher standard
study the bible daily so they can weekly minister to us
cry with us
are smart, reliable and motivational
are strong leaders, mediators and mentors
love you and your family
are personally vested in your spiritual growth
pray with us
walk with us through life's most difficult times and seasons
create outreach events
disciple us and teach us how to disciple others
encourage people to evangelize
are responsible and disciplined
protect us from wolves

Isn't it crazy we have to have a pastor appreciation month and day? Pastors and their families should be the most appreciated people in the church community and yet statistics show many wanting to leave the ministry at one point or another from simply being drained and discouraged.

As believers reading this I pray you will look to your pastors and church leaders with love and appreciation. If you find yourself asking what the church can do for you it's time to check yourself and ask what can you do for the church.

To all my beloved pastors, past and present, I thank you for being a blessing in my life and to my family. We are thankful for the role the Lord has given you.

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 20,000 Christians donating $100 each to fund our facilities project?! Be 1 of the 15,950 left to help us achieve our vision!

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This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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Why Pastors are Awesome? Part 1

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 12 Oct 2020 10:12:25 GMT

The first time I went to a public place after our second trimester pregnancy loss, I didn't want to talk to anyone but the couple of friends I'd ventured out with. I felt protective of my family, closed off from everyone around me and in a very dark fog. I can't remember if I had been to church or not yet, but this was the first time I'd been around strangers. It was a public pool with a play area for the tiny ones, so I didn't have to do much, but watch tiny ones splash around with my feet in the water.

People don't know what to say in times like this. I don't blame those who are uncomfortable or keep quiet when people grieve. I understand.

But pastors...

A then acquaintance and pastor from another church saw me and walked over to our group. From the words of friends and probably social media he knew of my heartbreak and grief. He looked right in my eyes, his eyes full of tears, gave me the most genuine hug and told me how deeply sorry he was for our loss. He not only asked how I was doing, but inquired of my husband and children and their grief. When I describe the event to people and how it moved me I can only say that "it was pastoral." He was like a father and beloved teacher and sweet counselor in a moment with a few kind words. Perhaps it was his training, his life experiences or just good upbringing, but God used those few minutes that day to place the first balm on my broken heart.

You have to understand, this wasn't MY pastor.

Pastors are:

thoughtful
teachers
caretakers
counselors
bosses
servants
leaders
protectors
husbands
fathers

And the harder truth to hear is that they are often:

under paid
under appreciated
overworked
exhausted
friendless

As with all my posts lately, there is a caveat. While we appreciate all pastors do, we have to remember they are know all knowing and can't be in multiple places at once. They must make difficult choices in regards to tragedy of of their time. If you are reading this post thinking about yourself, you are reading it wrong. This post is about all pastors do and not all you feel they have not done personally for you. Not all pastors are to be all things to all people. God is sufficient for us. Forgive your pastor if he missed something. They are amazing, but they are also human.

Show grace and forgive when necessary.

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 20,000 Christians donating $100 each to fund our facilities project?! Be 1 of the 20,000 who give to support their leadership.

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This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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5 Reasons you should be serving in your church

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 05 Oct 2020 10:09:03 GMT

When I first surrendered my life to Jesus, making Him Lord of my life, I didn't know what to do. thankfully I was surrounded by mature believing women who said to serve. there was always and need and so they plugged me into the decorating committee of the women's retreat. I served in this capacity for 2 years even though it wasn't really my thing. At the time, as a new believer, selfish as all getup and not knowing a darn thing about putting others first, serving in any capacity was just what I needed. It wasn't my gifting. It wasn't my calling. There was a need and I served a purpose in filling it. Sometimes serving is as simple as that.

After a couple years of using a hot glue gun to attach lace to varies oddities the Lord called me to Jr. High ministry. There was a calling. There were gifts being used. There was growth, excitement and purpose. When I started having babies I served my family most and filled in small gaps at church when needed. Eventually I was called back into ministry and lead ministries and taught women.

Serving looks different to different people in different seasons. There is always a need and always something that needs to be done and/or someone who needs help. Do not talk yourself out of serving because:

you think you are too busy
you think you have no gifting
you don't like people
you are too shy to ask how you can serve.

There are many great reasons to serve, but today I give you 5 of my favorite.

1. You are being a good steward of God's grace and your gifts:

God has giving you giftings...special strengths He wants to use to bless others. Even if you are at a loss as to what they are you can be confidant you are needed. There are people who make coffee and sweep floors. There are people who pray and send cards. There are teachers and small group leaders. Servants are needed at your church. I can almost guarantee it. Fill a need, even if it isn't what you see yourself doing. Fill a need. You will grow and leadership will see your faithfulness in small things.

"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. "Amen."

2. Serving is a great way to show love:

One of my favorite pastors used to say, "Love is an action. Do the action and the feeling will follow."

If love is an action than serving is a great way to love people. Sometimes people need actual helping hands! When we love by serving we share the love of Christ to everyone who is watching.

For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

3. Serving practices humility.

A wise man once said, "humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less, " and I agree with him. True humility comes in learning to think of others before yourself. We are called to look out for the interests of others and have a like mind with other believers.

"So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,"

4. Serving glorifies Christ over self:

Our time is such a huge commodity these days. How we spend our time reflects what we love most. Spending our time doing kingdom work shows we are putting the needs of Christ and His bride even before our own selfish desires. We have responsibilities to God which include family, of course, so we are not to neglect our family, but be good stewards of our time.

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

5.Contributing to the needs of the saints shows hospitality:

Many Christian Americans today have lost the art of hospitality. I suppose it's because we are so self serving. Giving one others need...hospitality. Love by filling the needs of the church body.

" Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality."

I must end this post with a caveat...not every season of your life with be one of serving weekly in your church. If you are in a season of rearing young children or unwell, then let the body serve you. However, if you are able bodies and using life as an excuse to not serve, then please, stop it.

One of the principles I try diligently to imbed into my children's sweet minds is that "helping" is not doing what we want, but "what needs to be done." Does that mean we are not always serving in our specific "calling?" Yes. You purpose may be to fill a need. Do what needs to be done and know the Lord will provide you with the capabilities you need to do the job well.

So, let's all serve to the best of our ability in line with the season of life we are in!!!

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This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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Prayer Walk 2020: Getting a little personal

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 28 Sep 2020 10:07:50 GMT

Standing in the hour long line for the bathroom I heard the voice of the Vice President of the United States of America. That is when it hit me...we have an administration that is prayer for our country. WHAT A BLESSING!!!

There were 7 stops along the way and 7 different ways 10's of thousands of Christians prayed for our country. It was one of the most amazing scenes I've ever witnessed. People of all races, sizes and economic backgrounds coming together with the joy of the Lord to pray.

This song was played and sang all throughout the day! I still have it in my head. The presence of the Lord was strong. At one point, surrounded by people, someone said, "If this is this amazing, can you imagine the throne room of God when we are all at His feet?"

It was a beautiful picture of the unity Christ has in his body of believer when we are submitting to His will in prayer.

I thought these 7 ways to pray for our country were so well thought out that they were worth sharing!!

1. At the Lincoln Memorial the prayer focus was:

Humbling ourselves in repentance and asking God to forgive our sins and heal our land.

2. At the WWII Monument the prayer focus was:

Our military, police and other law enforcement, and their families-and security and peace for the nation.

3. At the Washington Monument our prayer focus was:

Salvation of the lost, renewed strength in our families, solutions to the corona virus pandemic and an end to abortion.

4. From the view of the White House we prayed for:

The President and the Vice President and their families

5. In front of the National Museum of African American History and Culture we focused our prayer on:

Compassion and kindness toward one another, respect and reconciliation between races and healing in the community torn by violence and injustice.

6. At the National Archives ( and we were pretty behind and this point from bathroom line waiting which comes with the territory of taking children to large events) our family grouped together and prayed for:

Religious freedom, and for the churches to have boldness to stand firm with the Word of God and to preach Jesus Christ to a troubled word.

7. The last stop on our walk was the Capital Building and what a sight it is to take in...such a beautiful building representing all America wanted to and while standing there we prayed for:

Our congress and other leaders at the national, state, and local events; the Supreme Court and the judges across the nation.

It should be noted that we were standing there when we heard who the new nominee for Supreme Court Justice was...it was surreal and rad!!

If you are joining those praying (and fasting) these 40 days before the election then I hope you will add these sweet and timely prayer focuses to your prayer time.

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 20,000 Christians donating $100 each to fund our facilities project?! Be 1 of the 15,930 left to help us achieve our vision!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.
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3 Key Elements in a Note of Appreciation

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 07 Sep 2020 10:06:28 GMT

I once heard a pastor say that when someone told him that they "liked the message today" he always asked them, "which part?" It sounded obnoxious at first, but as he went on he explained that he never knew if people were just saying things to be nice, tickle his ears or really had God speaking to them through his message. It was such an interesting perspective that I always come back to when giving compliments, encouragements or notes of appreciation. When the Lord uses someone to speak to us, convict us or encourage us shouldn't we take a moment to say thank you to the vessel He used. Of course, all the glory goes to the Lord who doesn't need us, but in fact uses us in spite of ourselves. Let us be great encourages. May we build up with salty words that bless the soul, whether from our mouths or our pens.

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

"Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up." Romans 15:2

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Genuine notes of appreciation can be a great blessing...just remember these tips!

1.Personalize your encouraging words:

Be authentic! Remember that people know when you are just kissing up. It doesn't seem to happen in church circles that pastors are being kissed up to as much as they are being criticized and fussed at, but be sure they know the difference between praise and disingenuous flattery. Say what is nice, but true.

2.Don't be cliche or pious:

Nothing is worse than a bible verse quoted out of context. Make your church leader proud of your biblical literacy by using applicable bible verses to encourage.

3.Send a gift card:

Whether you know the favorite place of your benefactor or not you know that you can generally bet on a coffee or burgers being a good bet as a wanted gift! If you have a bit more money to spend then a gift card to a nice restaurant would be a sweet gesture.

Sometimes we are more likely to enjoy a treat when it's a gift because we don't have the guilt of spending.

So when...

you are blessed by a teaching
shepherded well
attending a church with solid theology
thankful for those who minister to you

Try a thank you with a genuine note of appreciation.

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This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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4 Way to Encourage your Pastor

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 31 Aug 2020 10:05:20 GMT

All believers should consider how they can encourage their pastors. A pastor friend of ours recently told us that if he has just 1 great encourager in his congregation of 100 he is lucky and when there isn't one it's tough. Wouldn't it be amazing if there was a church full of great encouragers to help keep the arms of all the pastors and leaders at churches lifted up while they are doing God's work.

Here are a few super basic ways to help encourage your pastor:

1. Listen to his teaching:

Don't be the guy whose asleep in the pew in the back. I know there are good reasons people are tired and it's a victory to make it church some days even when you are tired. Some people work crazy hours. Some new moms haven't slept in weeks. Being attentive, taking notes and having positive feedback for your pastor can be so encouraging. You can't have genuine feedback if you aren't listening. I know it's tough sometimes because you are just thinking about where you are going to go to lunch, but that's where taking notes comes in. If you are taking actual notes of the lesson, then you may be less likely to write a note to your spouse asking where they want to go to lunch!

2. Be a biblical Christian:

Knowing God's Word and doing it is the greatest blessing for pastors. It's not just youth pastors that want you to read your bible and pray everyday. Get your fundamentals down and then move on to the meat of God's Word. Cultivate the fruits of the Spirit in your life. Walk in a manner worthy of the calling. It will bless and encourage your pastor beyond measure.

3. Love the body:

I once heard it said that you can't love God and not love His bride. The man said I may really like someone, but if they don't like my wife, we aren't going to be great friends. And so it is with Christians. If you can't bring yourself to love the body of Christ with all it's flaws and imperfections then you are struggling with loving God well. Be kind and generous. How encouraging to pastors to see a well loved body.

4. Be a peacemaker:

Divisiveness and backbiting is one of the most discouraging aspects of leadership pastors deal with on a regular basis. Between counseling and basic mediation among people there is so much added work when there are fewer peacemakers in the congregation. I strongly recommend all believers read The Peacemaker by Ken Sande not only for your own personal gain and sanctification, but to take the load off the pastors who are going to have to counsel you if you have no biblical conflict resolution skills.

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This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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How to Assume the Best of Your Church and Your Pastor

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 24 Aug 2020 10:03:47 GMT

Years ago, when I was knee deep in crying aged children and hadn't been to bible study in quite a long time, a friend and I decided we needed to stop worrying about how inconvenient it was for us to get to church and we really needed to get to this particular women's study at church. We pushed in our strollers. Re-registered our children for that specific day at church. I'd been at our church for years and in several different leadership positions. My friend has also been at our church for years, but is more of an introvert so getting her to go anywhere was a bit of a struggle.

So we get there...we get to the door to register. We made it to loading and unloading all the tiny ones. Strapping on whichever babies were still nursing at the time and we heaved our relieved breath and stood in line to register. When we finally were at the front of the line the woman told us we couldn't attend the study. Even though the flyer in hand didn't say anything about limited availability or pre-registering she sent us away and with the reason of their not being enough table leaders.

We were not only completely defeated and on the verge of tears we felt ousted from our own home church in a way that felt like deep betrayal for some reason.

The part that bothered me most was that if we had been visitors or people more apt to leave a church we would have. It wasn't handled well and even I, who am not easily offended, had my feathers ruffled.

We could have:

Done nothing
Thrown a fit
Left the church

but...

we prayed.

After a time I felt compelled to speak with church leadership about what had happened. I was concerned we weren't the only ones it had happened to and that it would have turned people completely away from our church because of attitudes of exclusivity and unfriendliness. In the end we were told that shouldn't have happened, they were very sorry and who knows what was or wasn't said to the offending party.

Seeing her after that was tough, but I HAD to assume the best. Maybe she was new. She didn't seek to offend us. She had no idea how much we needed to be there or how the enemy used the experience to keep us from trying again for some time.

Here is the thing about assuming the best:

Assuming the best helps in all relationships: We were told in our pre-marital counseling to always just assume the other person wasn't trying to hurt you. This is great advice for all of life.

People make mistakes... they are not generally malicious: Remember we all make mistakes, say foolish things and mess up. Remember that when you are the one offended.

Grace and forgiveness are fabulous qualities of a Christian: Being quick to forgive is biblical even when it's challenging. Having grace for others shows the maturity of knowing all you have been forgiven. Who are we to hold grudges.

Keep your mindset focused on someone else always having the best of intentions and you will do well to assume the best of all situations.

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This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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3 Ways of Escape when You are Caught in Gossip

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 17 Aug 2020 10:02:38 GMT

Standing talking with a group of women all the sudden someone says something unfavorable that is non of my business. Ugh...it's the worst. I hate it. Maybe it's the other more subtle kind of gossip that started as a regular conversation and now has taken a turn down a bad direction and you are in the throws of gossip without realizing and now don't know what to do. Oh or even worse maybe you said something you shouldn't have and now the conversation has gone in a direction of speaking unfavorably about people or just sharing things that aren't your business to share. What do you do?!!? Here are a few ways of escape to help in any of these situations.

1. The Bold Way:

"This conversation has taken a turn and I don't think we are honoring God anymore. Let's
change topics please."

"That sounded a bit like gossip. Let's not go there."

"I'm not sure this is any of our business. I don't want to hear these things."

2. The Nice Way:

Just fight fire with water. When someone says something ugly about a person you think of something nice to say or push for giving them the benefit of the doubt in the situation.

3. Flight Mode:

I know some people are very uncomfortable with any sort of confrontation or any possibility of confrontation. I understand this though and though it's not generally my personality I've done this before. Just excuse yourself. There are a few people who over the years I've often had to excuse myself from and they usually get the picture at some point.

I feel like this post needs a cliff note. Christians LOVE to pendulum swing on issues and be very extreme one way or the other. I had a friend once who really struggled (this is my opinion) with seeking wise counsel because she always thought if she brought another person into the conversation it was gossip. Gossip is when you are speaking about another persons affairs that have nothing to do with you, not your own. This, I find is a particular struggle with parents. We think we have a right to discuss the private matters of our children because they are our children. This is particularly horrifying, I find, with parents of adult children.

A side note to the gossips out there: We see you and we don't trust you one bit. We know our secrets are not safe with you. We love you and pray about if the time will be right to rebuke you in your unbiblical habit.

A note to us all:

We have all been guilty of gossip at one time or another. Asking for forgiveness from those you spoke to about someone else is always the best course of action. When we are unsure if we should speak something about another person, consider just being quiet. If you have caused a big ruffle or division in your church, please make a list of those you need to seek forgiveness from and get to seeking.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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4 Ways to be Loyal to your Pastor

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 10 Aug 2020 10:00:50 GMT

Personally loyalty has always been an interesting emotion/action to me. I have felt strong loyalty to non biblical principles or people who were wrong. That is not the kind of loyalty we are talking about here. Loyalty, if you are a Christian, should not be blind or ignorant. We know we can be loyal to God without question. It's important to show loyalty (constant support and allegiance) to your pastor because he is doing God's work. We should be loyal to all those who are doing God's work, but how much better to those who are serving us on a daily and weekly basis!

1. Support their biblical teachings:

Know your bible and do what it says...Christianity 101, right? Any good pastor will tell you to check what he says against the Bible. When your pastor gets up and preaches a solid, biblical message and you don't like it because it convicts you, do it anyway. Don't rant about his teaching. Don't kill the messenger. God's Word should be the authority in your life and you are being both loyal to God and your pastor when you support his biblical teaching with your actions and positive response toward his teachings.

2. Get behind their church philosophy:

It's important to remember that biblical teaching and church philosophy are different. We need to remember that men called by God to pastor can all lead differently. They may have different ways they lead, manage and teach, but that is o.k., even encouraged! Their are many different philosophies of leadership that are biblical, so get behind your pastor even if he does things a bit differently than you'd prefer. God has called him, not you.

3. Submit to church authority with thankfulness and joy:

Christians today don't like to talk about church authority, but your leadership should be able to correct you or your family and you should be thankful they want you to be in a right relationship with man and God. I had an experience once at a church wedding where one of our pastors called and talked to my husband about my parenting of a wild 2 year old. He wouldn't listen to me and I'd grabbed his ear to get his attention...well it just so happened that he had a big ugly scrape across his face from an outside fall earlier in the week. The pastor told my husband he knew us and he knew we weren't abusing our children, but with my frustration and the coincidental scratched faced he knew it looked worse than we realized and we wanted to be above reproach! It was the most encouraging (and humbling) thing to know he was willing to reach out and talk to us was amazing. I thanked him for the "rebuke" to which he responded horrified that he hadn't meant it as a rebuke at all. Still...we have to be willing to hear what our leadership has to say to us.

Church rules are also a big thing. Who cares if you don't understand why the rule is there, do it anyway. It's a great example to people and your family to obey the rules given by those in authority over you.

4. Remember they are put into authority by God:

I have personally been blessed to be under pastors who taught the word of God faithfully and encouraged us to search the scriptures. Believers should all be in churches like this. I will say though that God allows who He allows in the pulpit. These men are given the authority by God to be pastors. God's authority is to always be respected.

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This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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10 Ways to Pray for Your Pastor

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 09:58:58 GMT

As we have built and centered an entire ministry around serving those in Christian leadership I would be greatly remiffed to not mention how important praying for our leaders is. I have been guilty of falling into the “works” category of helping more than a time or two and let myself forget the biblical truth that the fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

We have an entire prayer team that covers our ministry in prayer, we pray for the health and safety of our family and friends, but so often we forget to cover all our spiritual leaders in prayer. Maybe we even through up prayers for our senior pastor after we see him teach on Sunday, but what about the others who are helping make our churches the well oiled machines they are.

How often do you pray for your tech guys?

When was the last time you prayed for the youth pastor?

What about the church secretary, the administrative pastor or the elders?

Here are 10 ways you can pray for your church leaders:

1.Thankfulness would come easy to them:

Let’s face it, they deal with a ton of people, complaints and problems. Attitudes of gratitude are super helpful, but not always forefront.

2.Joy would be a choice they make no matter their circumstances:

James tells us to find joy in our trials because they produce patience. Pray your leaders have a biblical outlook on joy in and out of trials.

3.Discipline:

Knowing what to do and when is difficult in almost all of life, but when you have “emergency” situations pop up all the time having the discipline to work on what needs to be done first can be challenging.

4.People to lift their arms:

One man can’t do everything that needs to be done for his congregation or the administrative side of church. Praying for the right people to come alongside the church leaders to encourage and uplift them is imperative.

5.Protection over family time:

Many Christians don’t realize that being a pastor is a 24/7 job that includes crisis calls in the middle of the night and holidays upset by tragedy. These leaders still have families and need relationships with them to be strong.

6.That their home would be a sanctuary for them:

The world is a wild and dark place and I often pray for the leaders I know to love being home and to feel like it is a safe-haven and refuge for them each night when they arrive.

7.Their friendships would be fruitful and sharpen them:

Believe it or not many pastors and leaders admit having genuine friendship is difficult. Always pray that they have someone they can trust and confide in for wise counsel.

8.They would never lose sight of the gospel:

With all the administrative responsibilities and counseling church leaders go through, keeping the gospel at the forefront of their thoughts so they can keep an eternal perspective is really important.

9.Wisdom and discernment would be gifted to them:

Divine wisdom and discernment is so much better than man made use of knowledge correctly.

10.They would be surrounded by peacemakers:

Oh how humans love to divide and quarrel. Lord, please let our church leaders not only to be peacemakers, but be surrounded by peacemakers too.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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Mission Breakdown Part 2

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 09:57:38 GMT

Rest. Restore. Revive.

Recently my father in law was at a restaurant wearing one of our T-shirt designs and a man approached him and said he really liked his shirt. Much to my father in laws credit he embraced the opportunity to share the vision of Cedar Creek Ministries with the gentleman and his friend. We actually visited their church last weekend and are constantly in awe of the relationships the Lord is creating as we travel.

One of the main reasons our desire to create a family retreat that is different from the traditional retreat model is because we really want individuals and families to be able to actually rest, restore family relationships and revive ministry vision.

Rest:

The hard truth is we all rest and feel refreshed in different ways. To some rest is legit, not leaving the building, and watching movies all day while food is delivered to your door. For others getting out for a hike or having the opportunity to do their hobby is the best kind of rest. For some the phone needs to be 86'd from life and for others using technology is really relaxing. This is true in families too! Not everyone in every family is the same and so all individuals in the family getting to rest is rare.

Restore:

Pastors and ministry leaders are busy. Statistics show many pastors burning the candle at both ends. Families will be able to have the time they need to enjoy family fellowship in a relaxing environment without the distractions of everyday life. Good relationships need time to cultivate friendship, love and encouragement. Just scheduling time to be together can bring draw families closer together even when life has made them feel distant from each other.

Revive:

After individuals in families have rested and had time to refresh family relationships, then leaders can have fresh eyes to focus on the callings God has on the lives. Cedar Creek Ministries is founded around helping pastors and ministry leaders revive their vision for ministry so they can go back home with renewed fervor and strength to pursue all God has called them to do!! Getting a clear head can make all the difference.

With personalized hospitality in mind and a mindset to rest, restore and revive, Cedar Creek Ministries will be able to lift the hands of those who serve on the front lines of ministry on a daily basis. It is such a privilege to be called to serve in this way.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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Mission Breakdown Part 1

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 13 Jul 2020 09:56:05 GMT

The Need:

You have probably seen it on every Cedar Creek Ministries piece of literature and email we’ve sent out. We are creating a place for pastors and ministry leaders to go with their families to rest, restore and revive.

But what does it mean?

First, let me share with you why we chose “personalized hospitality” for ministry leaders.

Year after year I watched my friends and faithful servants work all year on the annual women’s retreat. They delegated people, worked in their giftings, teachers were chosen, worship was planned, decorations were made and 1000 other tiny details and prayers went into every aspect of the many cherished events.

Family camps, women’s conferences, Christmas and Friendship Teas. They are all amazing, but what you don’t necessarily see is all the man power and work that went into making these events successful.

Pastors are working crazy hours, often every day of the week because they know they are called to be the caretakers of the people the Lord has giving to them. It's admirable, but the general congregation can do more!

The truth is 20% of the church is doing the work for 80% of congregations. Servants are tired.This is noticeable if you are paying attention and actively involved in your church.

But the other statistics for pastor’s specifically are even more disheartening. Just the first 2 statistics in the are enough to make us want to serve the ones who are shepherding God’s sheep.

72% of the pastors report working between 55 to 75 hours per week.

84% of pastors feel they are on call 24/7.

80% believe pastoral ministry has negatively affected their families. Many pastor's children do not attend church now because of what the church has done to their parents.

Which brings us back to how we have seen the need for pastor’s and ministry leaders to have a place they can go at little to no cost to them, to rest, restore and revive.

If almost ⅔ of pastors are working over 50 hours a week they have to be tired. If their job is 24/7 they are in need of some time away.

Cedar Creek Ministries can help. You can get involved too! Help carry the weight of the burden of this knowledge by making a difference in your pastors life! Take this knowledge and let it make you a more considerate person! Think. Act. Serve.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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6 Ways to Support Cedar Creek Ministries

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 06 Jul 2020 09:54:50 GMT

We know you want to help and we are so thankful. What Christian doesn't want to be a part of supporting leadership once they recognize there is a need?

Cedar Creek Ministries offers an amazing opportunity to help pastors rest, restore and revive, even now before facilities are purchased.

As we travel the country and meet pastors, visit churches and shake the hands of ministry leaders we see more and more every day why God has started Cedar Creek Ministries. Pastors and Christians who hear are vision are so excited to know there will be a place to rest. Already we've been able to encourage believers, pray for ministry leaders, give gift cards and even send a pastor and his wife for 2 nights away because they were weary and needed rest.

Here are 6 ways you can help support Cedar Creek Ministries. Chose one or all!!

1. Give a one time donation:

Every little bit helps!! We love all of our one time donations and they not only contribute to our end goal of purchasing facilities to host families, but they encourage us on a daily basis to continue to walk in faithfulness trusting the Lord's provision.

2. Donate on a monthly basis:

Budgets are tight and we understand giving large chunks of money may not be possible for everyone. Donating a smaller amount on a monthly basis really adds up! Our family is actually footing the bill for the year of fundraising so you can be confidant that all the money we collect goes toward our facilities fund. (The exception here are the online fees if you donate online. Those come right out of your donation and we never see them.)

3. Host an online fundraiser:

Due to Covid 19 our entire fundraising plan became completely irrelevant. We had a large benefit planned and other live functions that could no longer be held due to restrictions and the simple unknown of what the rest of the year will look like in other places. Hosting an online auction or donation party for the ministry would help raise both awareness and funds and we would be ever so grateful!

4. Join the campaign:

This is actually our biggest favor to ask. We want to start a grass roots movement of financial support and Christian awareness through YOUR friends and family. We want your love and support for our ministry to reach into places we can't go because we don't know who you know. Joining the campaign is actually the most fun because you get your own web page and get to build a team of people to help you. We are actually looking to give prizes to the team who raises the most money!

5. Offer a corporate sponsorship for the Unsung Hero Program:

Every month we give away between $1500-$2000 to someone in the country who is doing rad things for the Lord. We are looking for businesses who can support us each month in this venture. In return your company gets great PR and we help raise brand awareness for you as you partner with us in this way.

6. Share our social media posts, videos and blogs:

This one is for everyone. We need your love and support with sharing. We know it takes so much to get you to push that share button, but we ask that when you see our posts you take that extra moment to click share and give us a quick sentence or two of support. This goes a long way in helping us reach the Christian community with our vision.

We believe one of the primary reasons God called us to crowdfund this project was to get the church involved in serving leadership. Cedar Creek Ministries is going to be a place where church leaders get to rest, restore family relationships and revive ministry visions. The more people who know about this the better. Obviously we will raise the money faster which is great, but think of all the people who will know about the ministry so that when the time comes that they need us, we will be ready. There are those who wish we were ready now.

Please consider the ways you can help and choose a couple to show your support!

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 20,000 Christians donating $100 each to fund our facilities project?! Be 1 of the 15,500 left to help us achieve our vision!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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5 Ways to Make New People Feel Comfortable at Church

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 29 Jun 2020 09:53:38 GMT

This week my family has been to 2 different new churches. Attending a mid-week service with a family friend was no big deal because they told us what to do and how everything worked. The Sunday service where we showed up not knowing anything was a bit more intimidating for a moment.

For us it's easier because we are looking to bless leadership and serve. We are not committing to pick a home church because we are just traveling through, but going through this last weekend make me realize how important it is for Christians to have some common ground when welcoming new believers to their church.

Over the years we've seen welcoming new comers done both really well and really poorly. If you have been to a church more than once then you should know and remember these few ways to help the newbies showing up for the first week.

1. Be on the lookout:

People will look super confused and be looking around for signs. If you see these people, head over and introduce yourself to see if you can help. Newbies don't know the layout of the church building, how childcare works or where the coffee is and they need your help. Be on the lookout for them.

2. Smile at everyone:

This is applicable on Sundays and at every other church function. Perhaps there is no confusion, but there is the misplaced feeling of not belonging yet and a smile and hello can go a really long way. I'll spare you the stories of women scorned in this area, but it's a thing and we need to smile, even if it's behind a mask and only with your eyes. That's where a simple, "hello" can come in handy too. If you go to a Bible believing church then there is a high probability that the Holy Spirit is going to do some convicting to everyone in the room, but the newbies might feel this is directed at only them. Just having regular people smile and say, "hi" when they are walking to their seats may really change the feel of the church. We have to be careful as regular church goers to not only be speaking to our own circles thinking the friendly is left to the ushers and greeters.

3. Train childcare workers to give a 30 second comforting speech:

We are a family of 8 and if we are going to leave our children in childcare it can be quite an ordeal. We basically have to name all the children, spell their names for the gatekeeper and remember all the birthdays to get in the door. We also need to know our children are safe and the workers have been trained and have had their backgrounds checked. Reassuring parents that their children are going to be safe, loved on and get the word of God before they drop them off has to be more important than getting them into the computer. Please teach your childcare workers this. They MUST be in the computer. It's most important for their safety, but make sure parents understand this and feel comfortable. It will make all the difference in whether a family comes back or not.

4. Be flexible and kind:

Make sure your staff knows all the options and how to deliver unfavorable information in a friendly way that makes people feel they are being served and not bossed around. Some churches don't allow children in the sanctuary...OK, but that is not the right verbiage to tell a new family who is rightfully protective over their children. "Let me show you are most family friendly venue. Follow me." is so much better than, "Oh children aren't allowed in that room, let me show you to childcare." Ask people how they are doing and about themselves if you have to walk them to another venue. Silence can be really uncomfortable in these situations. People are who we serve. Rules are established to prevent chaos, but loving people is the most important thing. Be sensitive to people's newness by giving them the lowdown and quick tour so they can feel like they are welcome and wanted. Again, make sure they know where the bathrooms and coffee are!!

5.Find a way to engage:

All church leaders should be taught to be friendly to people they don't know at church. This is good for both new people and getting regulars plugged into to serving. I can't tell you how many people I've invited to moms groups just from talking to someone while washing my hands or in the nursing moms room. If you are in leadership at your church then you should be "team church" and as such always looking for ways to serve and make people comfortable in a hospitable way.

The bottom line is whether you care about church growth or not you should care about people enough to want them to feel comfortable. Perhaps you don't feel you have the gift of hospitality or worse you are a hard core introvert. Don't care, Be friendly. Smile. Make sure people are not confused about services, childcare or the church site plan.

Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. Did you know it will only take 20,000 Christians donating $100 each to fund our facilities project?! Be 1 of the 15,920 left to help us achieve our vision!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries. To follow their families journey as they travel check out Little House of the Perrys

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3 Ways to Encourage More Like Jesus

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Tue, 23 Jun 2020 09:52:23 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Early on in my faith someone who seemed to really love the Lord said to me in a sharp and offended tone, "Well, I guess you don't have the gift of encouragement!" Even through the sting, I knew he was probably right. I only had the gift of slap you in the face boldness back then and it has take years for the Lord to teach me to be encouraging and I still, like many I know, am pretty terrible at it!

What about you?

The last time you felt really discouraged did you go to church leadership for encouragement?

Sadly, you probably didn't.

Maybe you felt like you couldn't go to church leadership because you would be judged. Maybe you are tired of pious answers or cliches. Perhaps, like myself, you've been guilty of not knowing what to say or saying wrong things and you just weren't up for it from somebody else.

How did Jesus encourage? What does discourage mean? How do we as believers stay strong and courageous when we feel constantly powerless and empty?

These are questions we should seek to know the answer to so we can be better Christians knowing how to speak with the kind of grace that imparts grace to the hearer.

Here are 3 tips to get you started on your journey to being more encouraging.

1. Consider empathy over sympathy:

I know how you feel is better than I'm sorry you feel that way. Jesus knows just how you feel and we as believers should be ready to meet people where they are and walk with them. We want to say the right things, but we need to listen

2. Consider your words:

We have to provide guidance and wisdom. We need to actively listen to give the right answer. Be perceptive. Listen for the sake of listening and give the Holy Spirit time to marinate your words in salt and grace.

3. Consider how much time are you spending encouraging your people:

We all have busy schedules, but what would the body of believers look like if we scheduled encouragement into our daily and weekly routines.

Challenge: Choose 3 people to encourage...walk alongside them and listen and only speak when God would give you the words.

This blog post was inspired by our Normal Christian Leadership Video Series in our Leadership Training. To check out the video on Encouraging Normally click here . Better yet watch the first video !

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This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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5 More (SIMPLE) Ways to Love Your Neighbor Like Yourself

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 15 Jun 2020 09:51:26 GMT

The world feels divided.

There is chaos and fear in quantities I've never experienced before. Even though we have the ability to keep our family units in relative order, our minds wander to what we can do, how we help, where the truth is found and how to teach our children to be the kind of humans that change the world for the better.

As I have been active in a city not my own recently, I've noticed how much a smile, wave and greeting can change someone's demeanor. It's one thing to wave to your neighbors or even in your own neighborhood, but what else can we do to really love others as much as we love ourselves.

I don't want to give a bunch of pious rhetoric on bible verses and how God is in control. He is though and the Bible is the only truth I really know for sure.

The basics are:

Love your brother. (1 John 4)
Don't seek revenge. (Leviticus 19)
Do good to people. (Romans 13)
Treat others the way you want to be treated. (Romans 13)

But what do these things look like today? Are the bold Facebook posts that polarize us and create thicker lines of dissension the answer?

If we are the light and salt of the earth, don't we have a responsibility to be on the grass roots movement of showing love to the world looks like?

A lost and dying world needs the gospel, but not on cardboard signs at street corners, so here are 5 simple actions I think that will change the world.

Say hello to strangers
Make eye contact with people and smile
Ask people in line with you or in the service industry how they are doing...then after they say, "fine." ask them how you can pray for them.
Teach your children to say excuse me when they are close to someone or passing them.
Give compliments and I mean look for ways you can say something nice to someone!

Should we be informed and have tough conversations? Yes! Call your public officials. Exercise your right to peacefully protest. Teach your children our country's history...the good, the bad and the ugly.

But in between all those things, don't forget that God has a heart for people, all people. So love and treat people like they are as valued as they are to Christ.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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5 Ways to Love your Neighbor Like Yourself

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 04 May 2020 09:49:22 GMT

5 Ways to Love Your Neighbor Like Yourself

The outreach and missions pastor at Calvary Chapel Oceanside shared this week his heart for believers across the country, and his church congregants particularly, to love on their neighbors during this time of shelter in place. Even though some states are getting back to less time at home with some businesses opening back up this week, he really encouraged us to remember the place God had us...literally, at home

Jesus uttered the precious words,

" The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment
greater than these." Mark 12:31

In a world raging with bold proclamations of self care and high self-esteem, you might be shocked that Jesus would tell us to love our neighbors like ourselves. We live in a world that tells us we don't love ourselves enough and yet here we find Jesus telling us to love our neighbors as ourselves. Why?

He knows we love ourselves SO much!! We meet our needs first. We know our bodies best. We do everything for ourselves and then are angry if someone imposes on our plans or doesn't help us meet our time frame of what we think is most important at any given time in all of life.

We are selfish and self centered and we think about ourselves SO much that we don't think we think highly enough of ourselves...and you know it's all pride.

But I digress and I'm not typing up a post on humility or the pride spectrum today!

So, How can we love our neighbors like ourselves. I promised you 5 Ways!!

Here you go!

1.Take them a meal:

Whether a meal or a treat, it's always so nice to be loved on with food. Just last week I had 2 different people leave me a meal. One needed a tiny bit of preparation and both came with dessert for the entire family! Some weeks I can make an extra meal for someone else and sometimes I'm struggling to get food on the table for my own family. You know what you can always do though? Send pizza delivered to someone's home. You probably even know your neighbors address!

2. Give them a gift card to a local mom and pop:

Businesses are struggling. Even a $25 gift card to a local eatery can put a dent in most bills at an average restaurant. Plus you are supporting local business who really need your help right now too.

3. Pay for their gardener for a week or pull their weeds:

Pride of ownership is something we all want in our neighborhoods and most work to achieve, but it is a ton of work and even just a little big of help would always be appreciated.

4. Bring them a coffee when you drive thru to get yourself one:

I know some of you are still driving through everyday for your caffeine fix. Why not just grab some extra coffees for your neighbors to show a little extra love?

5. Offer to pick up their groceries when you are out so they don't have to go to the store:

Food and supplies have been a real issue for people as of late. If you are headed to Costco you can ask a neighbor if they want to split the paper towels or pick up extra bagels for them. Going to the store is really stressful for some people because of Covid-19 and you never know if just bringing back a gallon of milk for them will make their day and save them a stressful trip!

Being kind and generous are traits Christians should aspire to have all the time. They are especially valuable in our Christian witness when others are being cranky and stingy. Jesus means for us to be set apart for his good work. The second greatest commandment after loving God with all we have is to love our neighbors as ourselves.

How can we be more loving to our neighbors today? How can we bless them and share Christ today? Will it always be something on the bottom of our to do list or will we be Christians of action reaching out and obeying the commands of our Savior?

Love our vision to help pastors rest, restore, and revive at no cost to them? Great! Like us on Facebook . Follow us Instagram . Share this post. We need your support! Your pastors need your support! Every donation is needed and appreciated and can be received 24 hours a day here on our website.

Know a pastor that needs encouragement? Email us so we can send a gift of appreciation!

Thank you so much for letting us share our hearts with you! We hope to see you face to face very soon!!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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When Inspiration Comes

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 09:48:19 GMT

Within minutes of launching our first T-shirt campaign I was notified by Bonfire that we had an order for 9 shirts from one buyer.

Of course besides being thrilled I wanted to know who to thank for their generosity and so we have our inspiration for our Matching Family T-Shirt Contest.

This lovely blended family are a self-proclaimed Brady Bunch coming together each bringing 3 children to the marriage.

If you are counting 8 people and 9 shirts ordered, good eye! Their family has a niece who tags along with them regularly and they didn't want her to feel left out!

Krista's thoughts on Cedar Creek

Why nine shirts!?! That's a big contribution!!

"We haven’t had an opportunity to need/want completely matching shirts before. We have had similar matching outfits where the boys match the boys and the girls match the girls but this will be our first true matching shirts for the family and we are excited!"

What do you love about Cedar Creek's Vision?

"There are so many positive aspects of Cedar Creek Ministries vision that just draws us in. Knowing first hand how easy it is for not just a person but a family to get burnt out while serving others makes a huge difference in understanding the need for this ministry. I love that the goal is to bring families in to give them the rest and ability to be served can really restore not only an individual but the family as a whole as well. Making time is hard but often saving up for a retreat like that can seem impossible and just adds more stress where it shouldn’t have to be. An with the Perry’s vision it would make it not only possible but affordable as well which is a huge blessing."

Why are you supporting the Perry's and Cedar Creek Ministries?

We trust and support the Perry’s because they have been such a light and beacon to us. Our whole family became close to the Perry’s in such a short amount of time and the impact that they have had on our family will never be forgotten. We want to support the Perry’s and their mission every step of the way so that other families can have the opportunity to be blessed by them as we have."

We are blessed to have friends love and support our vision. We'd love for you to come along side us too. Buy shirts for your family here or donate here on our website!!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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3 Ways to Keep Your Ministry Alive During Covid-19

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 20 Apr 2020 09:45:49 GMT

In a discussion today with a friend, he mentioned it was times like this we really see what people are made of and how they handle bumps in the road.

We all have a tenancy to dig in when a challenge arises or cower and not know how to move forward.

Some churches are killing it right now with online devotions and live teachings every week, but others are struggling to catch up all technology has to offer. Churches with older congregations never saw the need to have online giving or teaching. The time is upon us. Maybe your church leaders have all the resources and maybe they are getting there, but either way if you have a group of people you normally see regularly and facilitate in some way, you really should stay connected.

People need people right now and those who are leaders can reach out in ways that make people remember they are part of the body.

Here are 3 Ways to keep your ministry alive during Covid-19.

1. Stay in contact with your people.

Make phone calls, send texts and even encouraging notes are a lovely gesture of kindness.

2. Have virtual meetings for your group .

You can use platforms like zoom to create a great environment for people to connect.

Everyone has a common bond right now because we are all in the same storm. Connections might be made that would not have been in real life!

3. Go for some "social distancing" visiting .

Pack you family up in the car and drive by and say hi to the families you are missing from your group. You can be cautious and still fill your fellowship tank. Roll down those windows and let your whole family say hi to those families you love. We had an opportunity to be on both the giving and receiving end of this this week and it was amazing.

Don't give up on the moms group God was growing at your church or neglect bible study. Learn how to weave your way through this curvy road and stir up love and good works along the way. God is still good and faithful and if you were called your calling has not changed. You way of doing things may have changed, but when there is a calling on your life you can't let outside circumstances dictate where you know you are called to be.

Use social media and today's technology to stay connected and grow relationships in a new way. We are here and praying for churches. If you want your church and/or ministry on our prayer list please email us or reach out on our Facebook page .

Cedar Creek Ministries exists to help pastors/ministry leaders AND their families rest, restore and revive. We hope this article was helpful and encouraging to those of you on the front lines of ministry at your churches! Do not grow weary!

Oh and don't forget to check out our fundraiser and contest that ends this week too!! Click here to grab shirts for your whole family!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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A Letter to my Pastor...and yours.

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Tue, 14 Apr 2020 09:44:19 GMT

Dear Pastor,

Life as a believer comes with many challenges. You know probably better than me the validity of that. You do such a great job making our church feel like the church that when we can't be there it hurts and it's tough. My children are excited to see you online, but they miss their bible teachers too.

I know you are busy right now trying to meet the needs of your congregants. I know you are taking care of your family and we all see that you do such a good job at protecting them. Our husbands see it too and we all love you all the more for it.

Thank you for staying ahead of the curve with technology. Thank you for working diligently to make sure we an still see you and hear your teachings.

We feel like the building is home and in some ways you sort of feel like a parent to us. We might complain about what you expect from us, but we believe you know what's best and we will do what you say because we know your heart is aligned with God's. You always take us straight to His Word and there are no words to express our gratefulness for your faithfulness to truth...His truth!

Thank you for hugging us mamas who have lost our babies. Thank you for encouraging husbands to be faithful to their wives, even with their eyes. God used you to save our marriage once and you may never even know it. God uses you weekly to help mold us into better humans.

Thank you for accepting our late night phone call when tragedy struck. Thank you for sacrifcing your family time because God has called you to be our pastor.

Thank you for your weekly jokes and sentiments about the news.

Thank you for helping me check in my children when I walked into church alone. So much of what you do goes unnoticed. The details are more than I will ever know, but for what I do know, I am eternally grateful.

Signed,

Your sheep...well, His sheep, entrusted to you.

This letter was written by Nickole Perry co-founder of Cedar Creek Ministries. It was written to all her pastors really as she took moments with all of them and even stories she thought of about others as she was writing. But a special shout out must go to all the Calvary Chapel Oceanside pastors, past and present because she has never really been a Christian anywhere else and they have all been so instrumental in her growth and walk with the Lord. There are a couple other pastors "mentioned" here who are just so pastoral even if you don't go to their church. You may or may not know who you are, but thank you.

Do you love your pastors and forget to say thank you? Share this post and let them know!

We are down to only 19,999 more $100 donations needed to fund our facilities, so if you love our vision and want to get involved don't forget to click that donate button before you head out!!!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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Pastors are Essential

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 06 Apr 2020 09:42:59 GMT

We are trapped at home sending highest praise over the internet to all the front line first responders and healthcare workers. They are on the front lines and we notice them. We are even super thankful for those still working the drive-thrus because we are overwhelmed with homeschooling, more meals than we are used to making and not being aloud to hang out with our friends.

Have you thought about all your church leaders are doing at this time to help you feel plugged in to the church body? Our pastors are a bit of the unsung heroes at this point. They are working and harder than ever.

Cedar Creek Ministries was created to support and encourage church leaders. Now, with Covid 19, pastors and ministry leaders are having to navigate technology in a way they have never before. Some churches are just now establishing their online presence and giving congregants ways to tithe online...literally just this week in some churches. Their jobs are still intense and they are all at the mercy of our tithes for their paychecks.

Pastors are still:

preparing teachings
giving sermons
counseling
communicating with church members
managing churches

but they also have the added stresses of:

being constantly criticized for every decision
making sure the tech at church is ready to sustain the entire congregation
preaching to empty churches with video cameras
creating extra videos to encourage people who are scared and lonely
doing other people's jobs to keep others safe and self-isolated

Please remember:

Your church leaders need your encouragement too.
Give grace to your pastors as they make difficult choices for your church.
To continue with your tithe whether online or by mail.

So as you blindly feel your way through whatever new life you are living in the wake of Covid 19, I'd ask you to think of and remember your pastors. Send them an encouraging email or card. Tell them you are thankful. Tell them they are doing a good job.

Your time and support is appreciated. Keep your faith strong by keeping your eyes on Jesus!

Sincerely,

Nickole Perry

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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7 Verses to Focus on to Conquer your Worry

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 09:41:27 GMT

I know, I know, It's the go to...the mother of all trust verses. We are NOT to depend on what we understand, but to acknowledge God and know He will keep us on the right path.

When you find yourself in a place where your entire plan has been disrupted, focus on acknowledging who God is. He is faithful and good. He is with you in the darkest places.

Believe in the Lord and His goodness and do not keep your focus on your circumstances.

I know, I know, It's the go to...the mother of all trust verses. We are NOT to depend on what we understand, but to acknowledge God and know He will keep us on the right path.

When you find yourself in a place where your entire plan has been disrupted, focus on acknowledging who God is. He is faithful and good. He is with you in the darkest places.

Believe in the Lord and His goodness and do not keep your focus on your circumstances.

Life feels like a literal drought right now, at least for things like toilet paper eggs. We have a limited supply of goods for the first time in most of our lifetimes.

But God tells us when we trust Him we are blessed because we stay near the source of our nourishment for sustenance.

Our trust can't be in our plans, our riches, our goals, our real estate, our ministries, or even our church leaders. We must trust in God alone knowing He will never fail us. He will give us enough to be fruitful even in a time of drought.

In this life, we do not get to choose everything, but we can choose how we spend our time and what thoughts we dwell on.

Circumstances may seem dire, but remember who God is and let your trust be found in Him.

In His Love......

Oh and don't forget to browse the website and if you love our vision to serve ministry leaders please consider being part of the 20,000 people who donate $100 to our facilities fund!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, Founder and Board Secretary for Cedar Creek Ministries, Inc.

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5 Reasons Believers Need a Home Church

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Mon, 24 Feb 2020 09:39:05 GMT

Last weekend we said goodbye to our home church and set out on our long journey to serve churches and bless ministry leaders! We joined Calvary Chapel Tucson for worship and fellowship yesterday. It was such a bittersweet morning missing our church but enjoying the reminder that the body of Christ is alive and well outside of our church, town and even state.

As I took a bit of time to peek around during worship (dark confession) I took a deep sigh of satisfaction watching believers with hands raised and eyes lifted to God in their private moments of worship.

We all have our testimonies.

We all have our defeats.

We all stand before God with humble hearts when we remember all He has done for us and how we fail him daily.

I was reminded of how blessed we are to have a church family and why all believers should have a church they call their home church.

5 Reasons Believers Need a Church Home:

1.Genuine fellowship doesn’t just happen on Sunday’s:

Mature believers meet with believers more than once a week. They break bread with them whether in home fellowships or after mid-week services. Relationships take time and work and if you are not spending time cultivating relationships with people at church then they will not become your family. We are called to encourage one another and confess our sins to one another. Those are not the kind of activities you do well when you only see someone once a week.

2.The Body of Christ needs your service:

Mature believers serve in their church body. There are seasons for different types of service and a variety of ways people serve. Whether you are on a prayer team or teach children, there is great value in every way people serve in their church. I heard a story today from a sweet older couple who are snow birds so only in town for a few months and they walked into the church said they would be there for 3 months and asked where they could serve while they were there. The church placed them in the 5th/6th grade class and they are blessing the church they are essentially just visiting. What an encouragement to us all to get out and serve!! How many people attend their church week after week and do not think to fill a needed spot in their church. When a church is your home, you help there.

3.Real Christian relationships cultivate godliness:

Being around godly people cultivates godliness. Believers have opportunities for biblical rebuke and growth in the Lord when they have real loving relationships with people they know and love on a regular basis. When we want to be our best for God then we are open to correction. Correction leads to right relationship with God and makes us better Christians and humans!

4.Believers need wise counsel: Life is HARD!!

Seriously, we go through awful things in this fallen world and if we go to the world for advice we will quickly fall away from biblical teaching. Being in a church where people know God’s Word and can give you biblical counsel is so needed today. Wise counsel is also easier to swallow when we know and trust the person dishing out the advice. Your home church should have solid biblical teaching and be able to use God’s Word to draw you toward Christ in all circumstances.

5.We all need a place to call home:

Home really is where your heart is. It is difficult for most to keep our focus on eternity with Christ and our heavenly home, but that is really where we should be. A home church should give us that sense of home. It’s the people and knowing them intimately that is going to give that feeling in a God honoring way.

Believers, don’t settle for just going to church. Get plugged in. Get to know people. Fill needs in the body that need to be filled even if they aren’t your favorite. Love your local body of believers. Find a church to call home and do your part to make it true.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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Top 5 Facts to Find at Cedar Creek Ministries.org

info@cedarcreekministries.org (Nickole Perry) — Tue, 18 Feb 2020 09:10:51 GMT

This weekend we had the blessing of sharing our new vision for ministry with our home church in Oceanside! It was such a blessed time sharing the vision the Lord has given us.

We had some of the most amazing questions from simple ones like what constitutes a “ministry leader’ to ones we couldn’t even answer yet like: Will you be able to host international pastors and supply information for their visas?

While we couldn't answer that last question...but don't worry, I'm looking into it, we hope our new website will answer most if not all of your other questions!

Here are my 5 favorite nuggets of info you can find at Cedar Creek Ministries new website:

1.The Vision:

Our goal is to create a destination where ministry leaders can come with their families to rest, restore and revive. The goal is to edify those who serve the body in the way that ministers best to each of them.

2.The Building Project :

The conceptual drawings for the property are in and up for all to see!! We really want to offer whatever experience people need to rest. We will offer a full-service experience for those who could really use practical help or a peaceful getaway with a fully stocked fridge for those who just want the get-out-of-dodge, Camp David experience.

3.How to Help:

Cedar Creek Ministries is looking for Team Leaders to host events and raise awareness with their friends and church family about how we want to serve the church. Cedar Creek offers an amazing online platform for those looking to help and of course all the support you need to accomplish the goals!

4.How we serve:

On our website, you can “nominate an unsung hero” at your church. Those leaders will be receiving encouraging letters from Cedar Creek Ministries, gift cards and be the first to be informed about how to apply to visit Cedar Creek when we are up and running.

5.How to donate:

If only 20,000 Christians who love their church leaders donated $100 we would reach our goal! Every Christian has an opportunity to help this venture!! How rad is that!?!? So though we’d love your financial support, even more so we’d love your passion for our vision to shine through to your friends. We are thankful for every hard-earned dollar you share with our ministry!! When you donate on our website you can also share with your friends why you are supporting us and ask them to help too!!

Don’t wait, go check out our website today! Give us your feedback! Share your favorite ministry leader with us so we can bless them. Keep us in your prayers and if the Lord leaders please consider a financial contribution to the cause!!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for our live videos and follow us on Instagram for weekly encouragement!

This post was written by Nickole Perry, co-founder and Director of Operations at Cedar Creek Ministries.

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