After 13 years I decided to leave the ministry. Not sure where God wants me to go, but am hoping I hear the call. 

Would you like to share why you decided to leave?

7 minutes ago, theguru said:

Would you like to share why you decided to leave?

Nothing scandalous. Membership had kind of plateaued and there was a small conflict amongst some people about a year ago. I should have been able to squash it but it drug on a little bit, then this spring weekly attendance was up and down despite my teachings and appeals. Then I found myself kind of going through the motions a little bit. This led me to believe that I probably stayed two years too long. Not many Christian preachers stay at the same church for 13 years. Catholic priests do, but not typical evangelicals. 

I just prayed about it and thought it was time.  

Scandalous was not even on my mind. 

13 years is a long time and I agree with following your prayers and heart. 

12 hours ago, PP1 said:

After 13 years I decided to leave the ministry. Not sure where God wants me to go, but am hoping I hear the call. 

Prayers out thanking God for inspiring you to serve your mission of the past 13 years and for all you did in furthering His work and sharing His word. Praying that same inspiration and calling that led you to preaching the past 13 years now comes upon you and shows you your next path. 

I left the ministry 15 years ago, and I've been praying about my next ministry position, seems God has led me to what I call the "marketplace" ministry. Working and job and "ministering" while leading. Tougher than any church I've ever led. 

15 hours ago, Big East Zebra said:

I left the ministry 15 years ago, and I've been praying about my next ministry position, seems God has led me to what I call the "marketplace" ministry. Working and job and "ministering" while leading. Tougher than any church I've ever led. 

The most challenging ministry there is and one all Christians are called to. A balancing act with every word - sharing and not judging, attracting through action, example and the well placed thought provoking comment. So much discipline and intuition required. Prayers to you and to all of us for success in learning and teaching.

I might be back in the game. New church called and they seem really interested in me. 

On 5/3/2025 at 8:32 PM, Big East Zebra said:

I left the ministry 15 years ago, and I've been praying about my next ministry position, seems God has led me to what I call the "marketplace" ministry. Working and job and "ministering" while leading. Tougher than any church I've ever led. 

I have always felt we (all Christians) have much more influence Monday through Friday in our daily interactions than any of us, ministers included, do on Sundays.  It is all in how we walk the walk.  

As the old adage goes, "Preach the Gospel at all times, and if necessary, use words"