Catalyst | The Leadership Filter for What’s Next in the Church

The Leadership Life of the Senior Pastor, Part 2
By Dan Reiland

Every profession has its set of pitfalls. Policemen deal with risk every day and battle cynicism that comes from who and what they see. Social workers wrestle with massive case loads that challenge personal touch. Professional athletes and entertainers face the oppressive competition, and on the list goes.

So what about senior pastors? There are no pitfalls that are exclusive to any profession, but there are a few that clearly and consistently rise to the top of what senior pastors communicate are “the things that just seem to take me out.” What are among the top pitfalls they face on a regular basis?

In terms of pitfalls, I’m not including sexual temptation and sin in general because it lacks relevance, but because, in contrast, it always exists. It should never be dismissed. Further, it is an area so huge and complex it merits an article all to itself. So when it comes to this area - guard your heart! Beyond this Grand Canyon-sized pitfall there are others that are more subtle, but nonetheless can have devastating results. The following three things are what pastors tell me are the “real deal” that competes with being and achieving all that God has intended.