Pastor Burnout Is Real: Philip Miller on How Churches Can Help

Pastors are called to lead, teach, pray, counsel, encourage and care for their congregations—but what happens when the weight of ministry becomes too much?

Pastor, author and podcaster Philip Miller joins Steve Marston for an important conversation about pastor burnout, ministry fatigue and the pressure many pastors quietly carry.

Drawing from his own experience with burnout, Philip explains how pastors can unintentionally place expectations on themselves that God never did. He discusses the importance of understanding the biblical role of the pastor: devoting themselves to prayer and the ministry of the Word while equipping believers to do the work of ministry.

Steve and Philip also discuss the role the congregation can play in preventing pastoral burnout. Rather than expecting the pastor to handle every hospital visit, ministry need, committee responsibility and church program, healthy churches equip members to serve one another.

Philip shares practical examples from his more than 20 years at First Baptist Church in Bryant, Arkansas, including ministry teams, Sunday school and small-group leadership, accountability relationships and the church's “Find Your Place” ministry initiative.

Plus, Philip talks about his work with Bogard Press, writing the Adult Study Guide and helping provide through-the-Bible Sunday school curriculum.

If you're a pastor feeling the weight of ministry—or a church member who wants to better support and encourage your pastor—this conversation offers practical and biblical encouragement.