Loaf, putter, play, doze and run about
(A. W. Tozer, 1897-1963)
One trap into which the preacher is in danger of falling,
is that he may do what comes naturally, and just take
it easy. I know how sensitive this matter is and, while
my writing this will not win me friends, I hope it may
influence people in the right direction.
It is easy for the minister to be turned into a paid idler,
a social parasite with an open palm and an expectant look.
He has no boss within sight; he is not often required to
keep regular hours, so he can work out a comfortable
pattern of life, that permits him to loaf, putter, play,
doze and run about at his pleasure. And many do
just that!
To avoid this danger the minister should voluntarily impose
upon himself a life of labor as arduous as that of a farmer.
No pastor has any right to a way of life less rugged
than that of the workers who support him.
"You therefore must endure hardship, as a good
soldier of Christ Jesus." 2 Timothy 2:3
"Endure hardship. Devote yourself completely
to your ministry." 2 Timothy 4:5
