Full-Time vs. Bi-Vocational

[Richard A. Young]

As a young, up and coming pastor, starting a new work, I am presented with a dilemma. Many veteran pastors advise me to work a secular job as I build the work God has given me until the church or ministry can take care of me and my family. Yet, I wonder if in the genesis stages of planting and developing a new work requires full-time attention and effort. Share your thoughts, experience, and even strategies for this awkward time.  

[HOPE - Psalm 43:5]

Many people will give you advise on this issue. But guess what... there is not cookie cutter answer. Your decision will need to be based on your particular situation. So, please remember that when people offer advice. What worked for them may or may not work for you and your ministry and your finiancial situation.

Some pastors NEVER can go into ministry "full-time" because their congregation is too small to support he and his family financially.

Others work a secular job full time AND pastor "full time" because they understand that the work at the church requires the pastors due diligent work BUT he has a responsibility to financially provide for his family.

Others have wives who are able to financially support the family while the pastor does the work in the ministry without the distractions of holding down a secular job.

Don't just talk it over with your collegues... remember to include your wife in on the decision as what you decide will most definitely affect her in a major way.

I'm sure there will be many who will have pretty good advice for you hear.

Gather them all in, pray about it, make a decision and move forward fearlessly!

I pray that God guides you in this decision.

[Richard A. Young]

Thank you so much for your insight and care. Is there also a question of faith. Some will say to step out on faith. If God has called you then He will provide for you. Staying in a secular job is only a lack of trust in God. You make a most important point when you say to consider my wife and include her in the decision making and also pray. I most certainly do both, and I am thankful for a wife who understands the burden of the labor of love that mministry is, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to "help" with what ever is required.