Show Notes – Episode 22

Emotional Health in Gospel Ministry

Jonathan Hoover serves as the Associate Pastor and Couples Pastor at NewSpring Church in Wichita, Kansas. Jonathan holds an undergraduate degree in psychology and counseling from Liberty University, a Master of Science degree from Regent University in general psychology; and he is currently a student at Grand Canyon University, pursuing his Ph.D. in industrial and organizational psychology.

What makes pastoral stress unique?

The variety of roles and responsibilities placed upon the pastor.
The emotional pendulum swinging from high to low.

There is a negative aspect of positive stress. —Cary Schmidt Click To Tweet

Better results don’t happen past the sweet spot of over-stress. —Jonathan Hoover Click To Tweet

Tension is healthy as long as you can still rebound. —Jonathan Hoover Click To Tweet

If you are a serious stresser, you must be a serious rester. —Jonathan Hoover Click To Tweet

What are some challenges that will lead us to emotional breakdown?

Not monitoring stress levels
Lack of social support in ministry
Ignoring the indicators of emotional stress
Immense creative drain
Constant confrontational conversations

Everybody relies on the pastor, who can the pastor rely on? —Jonathan Hoover Click To Tweet

If you only have one passion, you will burn it out at some point. —Jonathan Hoover Click To Tweet

Warning Signs of Emotional Health

Executive Function Decrease
Working Memory Loss
Task Switching Lag
Feeling of Powerlessness
Loss of Purpose
Feelings of Threat

Applications from Elijah’s Discouragement

Rest
Relationships
Return to Work

Immediate Next Steps in a Nervous Breakdown

Make an appointment with your doctor. (Physical)
Make an appointment with a Christian therapist. (Emotional)
Make an appointment with a trusted Pastor friend. (Spiritual)

Helpful Resources: