Isolation . . . Loneliness . . . Solitude. Though surrounded by scores of people, pastors know these feelings all too well. Our position as shepherds, separated from the flock in many ways, can cause us to become closed off to much of the world.
(Image from Pixabay)
Living a private life in secrecy or inaccessibility leaves room for self-betrayal and, ultimately, to what I call an accountability breakdown.
To prevent that breakdown, we need the vulnerability that connecting with others provides. Recognizing our need for others means that we stay aware of any tendency to compromise. We also understand that we are not immune to a fall. We must be willing to open up and connect.
So how do we maintain genuine accountability as pastors?
Let me ask you a tough question:
Do you struggle with internet pornography?
If you do, you’re not alone. Many pastors today are caught in porn’s deceptive tentacles and they feel there is no way to escape.
But there is.
I want to recommend an article that we recently published on our Insight for Living Web site. It’s Pastor Darrell Brazell’s candid story of his addiction—but more importantly—of his freedom from pornography’s grasp. You can read his story here.
Let me also add that if you want to contact someone in complete confidentiality, you can connect with our pastoral counseling team on our Pastor-to-Pastor line at 972-473-5102 (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. central time). They are well-trained and can offer you some practical steps.
You will also find encouragement and resources on our Men’s Purity topical page.
If you struggle with porn as a pastor, I know that you want to break free. I’m certain that you want to honor the Lord. Freedom is possible.
I urge you to begin right now.
—Chuck
