Required reading
Lectures to my students by Charles Spurgeon (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read Chapter 11 (The minister's fainting fits).
My summary
Today Spurgeon gives counsel for ministers in depression.
Firstly Spurgeon discusses the reasons why ministers go through dark periods, including being:
(i) men;
(ii) unsound physically;
(iii) in work which lays us open to attacks;
(iv) in positions in the church that conduce this;
(v) sedentary.
Secondly Spurgeon examines the times most favourable to fits of depression:
(i) the hour of great success;
(ii) before any great achievement;
(iii) in the midst of a long stretch of unbroken labour;
(iv) one crushing stroke;
(v) when troubles multiply.
Thirdly Spurgeon admits that sometimes the evil of depression will come upon us we know not why.
What grabbed me
An important chapter.
It was good for me to be reminded to take time off: 'It is wisdom to take occasional furlough. In the long run, we shall do more by sometimes doing less. On, on, on for ever, without recreation, may suit spirits emancipated from this “heavy clay,” but while we are in this tabernacle, we must every now and then cry halt and serve the Lord by holy inaction and consecrated leisure. Let no tender conscience doubt the lawfulness of going out of harness for awhile, but learn from the experience of others the necessity and duty of taking timely rest.'
I find it hard to believe, but less is sometimes more.
Next week's reading
Read Chapter 12 (The minister's ordinary conversation).
Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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