Author Richard A. Borg, Denver seminary alumni, offers the upcoming generation of ministry leaders an eye-opening perspective on the ministry in his new book.

In “A Field Guide To Pastor Watching: A Rare View of Their Life and Work Between Sunday Appearances,” Borg undoubtedly responds to the query on what it's like to be a pastor? 

Having served the local church ministry for more than 50 years, Borg is one most qualified to answer the query.

He has worked as a pastor, church planter, and denominational leader for his whole life.

He has written a lot of books on discipleship, raising money for building churches, and giving pastors one-on-one counseling.

He also has a Master of Arts from Denver Seminary and a Bachelor of Science in Theology from Nyack College.

That said, his work seeks to educate everyone who is engaged in ministry, thinking about a career or instructing theology to aspiring pastors.

Borg stated that general ignorance among non-pastors concerning the calling, ministry, and personal lives of local church pastors was what motivated him to create the book.

A Field Guide to Pastor Watching

According to the overview of the book, every Bible and theology student who has been called by God to a career in local church ministry deserves an open and sincere response.

They require an honest assessment of the difficulties—both anticipated and unforeseen—as well as the rewards—that lie ahead.

The real stories in this field guide describe potential future events as well as similar past occurrences.

Some are funny. Others speak about divine interventions.

Still, others are taxing on both a spiritual and emotional level.

Borg kept nothing back.

For him, the call to ministry unfolds inexplicably in the muck and mire of everyday life, which is far from a cushy and dull typical work life.

That said, the book offers a wealth of practical advice on how to lead wisely in maintaining a happy marriage and distinctive family lifestyle and winning the respect and trust of followers.

It also delves into the self-the awareness's sheep must see in their shepherd, how to multi-task work and how to avoid staying too long or leaving too soon.

The overview also stated that the various suggestions and reflection questions in the guide will be appreciated by all people in the ministry.

This ranges from professors and teachers of applied theology, denominational leaders, and seasoned pastors who train up the next generation of pastors.

The guide also enlightens lay leaders' minds and emotions.

Struggles in the Pastoral Ministry

In a blog post, Church Answers’ founder and CEO, Thom Rainer, talked about the major struggles that pastors face.

One of the struggles he tackled was family problems.

Rainer stated that many pastors struggle with the expectations placed on their marriages or kids by churchgoers.

Some people struggle to make time for their families.

Meanwhile, families of pastors frequently experience "glass house" syndrome, wherein people who make mistakes shouldn't judge others for making the same mistakes as them.

Rainer also tackled the struggle of burnout.

He stated that the idle and the workaholic are two categories of people who may be drawn to local church ministry.

Accountability is frequently lacking, and it's simple to get away with doing little work or clocking in for more than 70 hours a week.

Another struggle he discussed was regarding expectations.

Rainer stated that pastors may face unfair expectations.

Pastors are frequently required to participate in several meetings, visit a large number of members of their congregation, produce outstanding sermons, and more.

Many pastors are not adept at delegating, or they don't have somebody who can manage part of their tasks, and many don't know how or when to say "no."

He stated that most pastors adore what they do. And even if they could, most pastors would not alter their position.

However, many pastors continue to face difficulties.

That said, a lot of them would be grateful for the assistance, words of inspiration, and prayer.

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