Whispers from the pastoral heart that few hear—but God fully understands.
Introduction
Pastors are often seen as strong, unshakable, full of faith, and always available to meet others’ needs. But behind this respected image lie inner struggles, silent wounds, and deep personal reflections. This article gives voice to 10 questions that many pastors silently ask themselves, yet rarely speak aloud.
1. Am I truly called by God… or did I make a mistake?
Even after years of ministry, this question sometimes resurfaces. The lack of visible results, criticism, or exhaustion can shake one’s sense of calling.
Biblical truth: “For God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable.” (Romans 11:29)
2. Is my preaching really transforming lives?
Pastors sometimes wonder if their sermons are reaching hearts or if they're just eloquent words.
Biblical promise: “My word… will not return to me empty.” (Isaiah 55:11)
3. Why do I feel so alone?
Despite the crowd and the members, the feeling of isolation is real. Few understand the spiritual burden a pastor carries.
Example: Elijah under the broom tree (1 Kings 19:4)
4. Am I neglecting my own family for the church?
This is a painful tension. Pastors want to be faithful to God without sacrificing their household.
Biblical instruction: “He must manage his own family well…” (1 Timothy 3:4)
5. Am I pleasing God… or just people?
The desire to be accepted can become a prison. Some sermons are held back for fear of offending or losing members.
Galatians 1:10: “If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
6. Why do those I helped turn their backs on me?
Betrayal and ingratitude deeply wound. Pastors must learn to love without expecting anything in return.
Example: Jesus with Judas.
7. Can I admit that I’m tired… without being judged?
Spiritual and emotional exhaustion is real. But few dare to say, "I’m at my limit."
Jesus said: “Come away… and rest a while.” (Mark 6:31)
8. Is it still okay for me to fail sometimes?
The expectation of perfection can crush the humanity of a pastor. They bear the pressure to never fall.
But God says: “My grace is sufficient for you…” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
9. Who encourages me while I encourage everyone else?
Pastors give, teach, uplift… but often receive little in return. They too need a mentor, a confidant, an intercessor.
Example: Paul had Barnabas, Timothy, Titus...
10. Is all of this really worth it?
Sometimes the trials make one wonder if the cost of ministry is too high.
Yet God says: “Your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)
Final Encouragement
Dear pastor, you are not alone. These questions do not make you weak—they make you human. The Lord sees what you do in secret. He hears what you never say out loud. One day, you will hear Him say: “Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Master.”
Prayer
Lord, You know the thoughts I don’t always speak. You see my doubts, my pain, and my fatigue. Strengthen me. Remind me of Your calling. Restore my joy. And help me to continue—not by my strength, but by Your Spirit. Amen.
About Pastor Missionary Jefistan Kombi
Pastor Missionary Jefistan Kombi is a committed servant of God, affiliated with the Assemblies of God (37th CADC/ECC) and a missionary within the Last Harvest Mission, led by Apostle Louison Tunasi. He currently pastors two churches: Last Harvest Church Port Elizabeth in South Africa and La Dernière Moisson Goma/La Borne in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
He holds a theological degree with a missionary focus and teaches at the Biblical and Theological Institute of the Assemblies of God (IBTAD). Married to Mrs. Aline Kombi, he is a father of two children. Passionate about church planting, servant training, and spiritual leadership development, he is driven by a clear vision: to serve God with excellence, impact, and integrity.
Phone: +243 8 0877 0877 E-mail: jefistankombi@gmail.com
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