We should never presume to definitively know that God\u2019s call on a pastor\u2019s tenure has come to an end for his serving a particular congregation. We can\u2019t know as God knows or see as God sees. Yet, as outside consultants or observers, as friends, or even as a close confidant, we may have sensed that a brother could be hanging on when he should be letting go and moving on to a new assignment or retirement.<\/p>\n
The fact is this: For some pastors it is time to go; it may even be past time to depart.<\/p>\n
There are myriad reasons why pastoral tenure may extend beyond God\u2019s blessing that local assignment. \u00a0And there are a number of signs that should be heeded \u2014 signs that indicate it is probably time to move on.<\/p>\n
Brother pastor, if any of these signs are true for you, prayerfully consider moving on for the sake of the gospel and the good of the church.<\/p>\n
Go: When you no longer have vision<\/strong><\/p>\n Vision is critical in church leadership and pastoral ministry. Beyond the gospel mandate that is the mission of every church, the vision of \u201chow\u201d your particular church will carry out that mission in your context is life-giving. If your vision has grown dim, if it consists of simply facilitating another worship gathering, if your vision is nothing more than attending committee meetings and preaching another sermon, and if you have sought to rekindle it and have nothing, it could be time to go.<\/p>\n Go: When you cannot or won\u2019t address conflict<\/strong><\/p>\n Pastoring involves conflict; no way around that reality. For some the battle has been too strong for too long, leaving them with no capacity or ability to do the work of exhorting, correcting and rebuking in love and with grace by the power of the Holy Spirit. \u00a0If you cannot bring yourself to confront and exhort when and where necessary, it could be time to go.<\/p>\n Go: When you\u2019re hanging on for the people<\/strong><\/p>\n Pastors are charged with loving, feeding, and caring for God\u2019s people. This is what Jesus has called pastors to do. Our care for God\u2019s people may require coming to grips with the difficult realization that being obedient to Jesus means we release them to His care as the Chief Shepherd. He can protect them, feed them, guide them, and watch over them far better than we can. Pastor, Jesus may be calling you to depart so the church will seek Him with greater passion and purpose.<\/p>\n Go: When you\u2019re only there for a paycheck<\/strong><\/p>\n The majority of pastors I know aren\u2019t pastoring for the money, yet some pastors I know are remaining as pastors because of the money. Meager resources and an uncertain housing future might handcuff pastor and people to one another, even though effective ministry and a vibrant call ended long ago. Pastor, God knows what you need; he can provide. If you are hanging on simply because you need a paycheck, you are not pastoring out of love but for personal gain. Repent, let go, and trust God. He is faithful.<\/p>\n Go: When those who love you say it\u2019s time<\/strong><\/p>\n Wise mentors and counselors always ask \u201cWhat does your wife say?\u201d Pastor, if you are married, your spouse is the primary source of insight about you, your ministry, and your well being. I\u2019ve met pastor after pastor whose wife is saying or has said long ago that it\u2019s time to go. Pastor, listen to your wife and hear her out. God can use her to speak powerfully into your life.<\/p>\n