The most important lesson I’ve learned in recent years is to be a member of my church, not just its pastor.
As both a small church pastor and an introvert, this is especially difficult and important.
When I give, but never receive, I can—and have—become bitter and angry at the people I’m trying to serve.
I need to actively resist the temptation to work alone, ministering to the church but not being ministered to by it.
It’s important for me to do what I ask other church members to do—learn, grow and be refreshed by my local congregation.
Jesus almost never did anything alone, and he allowed his disciples to get close enough to him that they became his friends (John 15:15).
If Jesus needed friends, so do I.
