As a young pastor, I face my fair share of challenges in ministry and leadership. At times, I find myself questioning whether I had stepped into full-time ministry too soon. There were moments when I felt the weight of others’ expectations because of my relatively younger age and their level of seniority.

Nonetheless, I continually reminded myself of Paul’s advice to Timothy: “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).

Many times, we want to prove that we can change the world with all our knowledge and strength; but our confidence should be rooted in God rather than in ourselves. Years ago, I read Eugene H. Peterson’s book “Working the Angles” about the three essentials of pastoral ministry: prayer, scripture, and spiritual direction. 

Today, these are pillars that support me as I find peace with my vocation and calling: When I grapple with doubts and troubles, I commit them to the Lord in prayer. When I seek spiritual revelation, I delve into the word of God, the Holy Scripture. When I need advice and support, I turn to mentors for spiritual direction.

These essentials do not only apply to pastors, but to every believer going through any difficulty today. I pray that whatever you’re facing, you’ll find God’s peace amidst your situation through prayer, reading scripture and asking for spiritual direction.