One time Pastor Craig Groeschel walked up to preach and had a terrifying realization: He had not prayed all week.

Yes, he was doing ministry. Writing sermons. Leading people. Carrying the title. But his soul was empty. So instead of launching into his message, he did something most pastors are afraid to do.

The Power of the Truth He told the truth. He stood in front of his church and confessed that his relationship with God was not what it should be—that somewhere along the way, he had started performing for God instead of walking with Him.

And something powerful happened. The confession he thought would weaken his leadership actually strengthened it. Years later, that church became Life.Church, one of the world’s most influential churches. But Craig might tell you the turning point was not the growth or the numbers. It was a moment of vulnerability.

The Ministry Trap See, the trap for us is subtle:

• You can preach the right words while your heart drifts.
• You can lead others toward Jesus while slowly walking away yourself.

Ministry is a role that rewards activity while starving intimacy. The sermons, the meetings, the Sundays—they don’t stop.

Intimacy Over Activity But God never asked us to impress Him. He invited us to know Him. If your soul feels tired, perhaps it’s not because you are doing too much. It may be because you are working for Him, instead of walking with Him.

Churches don’t need a pastor who looks the strongest. They need the one who stays the closest.

I’m Justin Trapp, and this has been Ministry Minute.