Pastoral guidance
The role of pastor today is rife with authoritative spiritual abuse. Some pastors imagine their job is to tell you what to believe, how to think, and how to live. Not a few seek to micromanage your spiritual life. Many sincerely believe they have authority over you and that the grace of God will be hindered in your life if you do not submit to their authority.
Most pastors are just trying to do their job the way they were taught in bible school or seminary or it is part of their denominational tradition. Occasionally pastors are hostile and enjoy the power they wield in their entitled position. They are not legitimately committed to your genuine spiritual well being nor are rarely open to discovering how abusive they are.
As I understand it, a pastor is someone whose spiritual development, knowledge of the bible, and familiarity with the challenges of the Christian life are sufficient to prepare them to facilitate within you the spiritual insights you are ready for. Because a helpful pastor has dealt with many issues and numerous friends from a Christian perspective, they often can help you cut to the chase and resolve your questions sooner than if left to yourself.
Nonetheless, the role of a pastor in your life is that of an equal whose involvement with you can help you in your own spiritual journey. The goal of pastoral it to feed, guide and teach without making you dependant.
Your spiritual health thrives only when your relationship to God belongs to you and God. Your pastor can never be more than a guest in that relationship. A pastor can bring his expertise and knowledge for your consideration. A pastor should be patient and without an agenda.
"Believe those who are seeking the truth; doubt those who find it." ~ Andre Gide
A word to the wise
On this page I would like to reiterate what is on the home page. Although I can be a resource to you, our relationship cannot be a substitute for therapy. If you find you need professional help to resolve significant psychological dysfunction, I suggest you consider a licensed therapist. Living With Wisdom is an opportunity for those well enough to take reasonable responsibility for their thinking, their emotions, their choices and circumstances.
Posted: 11/13/09 @ 4:12pm