Honest feedback and helpful evaluation are difficult to come by in the church.  While a “culture of gratitude and affirmation” is important, we need constructive assistance in becoming the ministers that God wants us to be.  Far too often in the church “we have made a god out of being nice.”  In such a context, the church and her ministers never attain their potential relationally or spiritually.

• FBC, Asheville tries to create a climate where the congregation and the pastors “speak the truth in love” to each other even when it is painful and difficult.  How well do you receive “the truth” when it is painful or uncomfortable?  If you tend to become defensive, how can you begin to open yourself to listen, process, and use this “truth” in a positive and redemptive fashion?

• Do you have a covenant with your church clearly articulating expectations both of the church as well as yourself?  If you are in a multi-pastor church, do you have a covenant with the other pastors regarding how you will work together?

Layne Smith

A recent publication by the CBF Initiative for Ministerial Excellence, Well-Being and Excellence in Ministry—A Practical Resource for Ministers and Caring Congregations encourages ministers and congregational leaders to consider what good conversations they might share as they create their life together.  Download the resource and get more information at http://thefellowship.info/ime