Why?

Why?As we navigate the moments, people and circumstances of life, often we find ourselves worn to a frazzle. Life can become wearisome when we don’t keep the “why’s” uppermost in our thoughts. I feel sorry for those who dislike what they do, or who find little meaning in their day to day activities. The “what’s” may keep us busy but it’s the “why’s” of life that bring meaning and fulfillment. If the “what’s” override the “Why’s,” then life tends to grind us down. Now, let me move from theory to a personal example. 

May I use my late father as an example of what I’m talking about? Dad was a hard worker, a man of his word, and a wonderful provider. However, he hated what he did for a living. He worked in a factory that manufactured very toxic metallic uranium, and had to wear a respirator during his working hours. He possessed a strong work ethic and it often wore him down. But dad never answered the “why’s” of his life. He often lost sight of the bigger picture and lived an angry and even hostile life. 

Lori and I have pastored for almost 50 years. Overall, our journey has been wonderful and fulfilling. We thank God for the many people God has brought into our lives and ministry; and we choose to elevate the rewarding, enjoyable times of ministry above the difficult times and knuckleheads that ministry includes! Let me be a bit more precise. 

If we’re not careful, difficult people, financial setbacks, unmet expectations, trying circumstances, and the demands of everyday life can cause us to lose a healthy balance and perspective. We can be prone to give up. As a ministry couple, we, from time to time, have to remind ourselves “why” we do what we do. This helps us to wisely choose our battles, not to allow anger to dictate our decisions, and to be authentic in the pulpit and toward people in general. 

Recently, I learned that over 42-percent of evangelical pastors considered leaving the ministry in 2025. The reasons are unclear but I can’t help but feel that the grind of daily life and the many challenges that accompany it, were the culprit. Many of them allowed the “what’s” of ministry to override the “”why’s.” The “why” of ministry is that people need the Lord; some people and situations are difficult; that hell is real, heaven is our goal, and daily life is much more meaningful when we keep Jesus uppermost in our priorities. Let me encourage you to keep the “why’s” of what you do over the daily grind of living – over the “what’s.” Service to Christ and others should head the list for all of us. 

Are you in a dead end job? Then, make 2026 your reversal year. Set into motion a new plan, a new focus and stay on course, re-defining the “why’s” of your life. When life bears down on you, your “why’s” will help you stay the course and to walk in joy.