It was my privilege to spend time with a group of church leaders at a pastors conference. It soon became evident that the rugged demands of the pastorate and the idealistic expectations of some congregations were taking a toll on these faithful servants of the Lord. Some were burned out and emotionally exhausted. Others were asking hard questions about the primary responsibilities of a pastor and how to find time for everything.

Some were stressed by the "watchdog" members of their church--you know, the kind who watch every little move and let you know if you're even slightly out of step. Other pastors wondered how to know when it's time to leave.

In one meeting, the conference director brought an encouraging message from the book of Haggai. He reminded these faithful laborers in Christ's church of Haggai's words from the Lord to Zerubbabel, the leader of the project to rebuild the temple: "Be strong" (2:4), "I am with you" (v.4), "I will bless you" (v.19), and "I have chosen you" (v.23).

These words from the Lord should encourage all who are weary in the work of God. If you're stressed and exhausted, remember that God is with you and He will strengthen you for the work He's called you to do.  — David C. Egner