How alarming for the Christian cause when men and women of God feel forced to brood about the future of ministry as they watch their work get harder and their world grows more corrupt. Ministry hazards are choking the hope out of pastors' souls. They feel disenchanted, discouraged and often even outraged. They question why they should be expected to squander energy on trivial matters when evil threatens to wreck the human race. Fatigue shows in their eyes.
Worry slows their stride.
And vagueness dulls their preaching. I think that the major cause of stress for the pastor is unrealistic expectations of his people. The pastor is caught between what God has called him to do and what his people expect him to do. The pastor has an incredibly difficult job. The implications and ramifications of his responsibilities are more extensive than most church members realize.