Regular spiritual recharging is essential for pastors, just as David demonstrated in Psalm 23:3 with "He restores my soul." This need for restoration is a fundamental aspect of our relationship with God.

Like sheep, pastors have inherent limitations. We can become easily worried, have clouded spiritual vision, and lack natural defenses against life's challenges. These limitations highlight our need for the Shepherd's care.

The Good Shepherd knows our needs intimately, unlike any other relationship we have. While algorithms and people must learn our needs, God already understands them completely and provides abundantly.

Weariness in ministry isn't a sign of failure—it's a natural result of our human limitations. When we feel depleted, we should view it as an invitation to seek the Shepherd through:

• Meditation on past provisions and answered prayers
• Prayer that acknowledges our dependence on God
• Casting our anxieties on Him

In our increasingly disconnected world, Psalm 23 reminds us of God's constant presence and purpose in our lives. The psalm concludes with eternal hope: "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever" (v. 6).

While pastoral ministry brings inevitable weariness, God remains present and faithful, continuously restoring our souls as we trust in His care.

In "Gospel Fluency," Jeff Vanderstelt shows how to think about life through gospel truth and apply it to everyday situations. This resource helps believers apply the gospel confidently to all areas of life.

Daylan Woodall serves as senior pastor of First Missionary Baptist Church in Decatur, Alabama. He holds degrees from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and is pursuing a PhD at Regent University.

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