You Lift Me Up: Overcoming Ministry Challenges

by Albert N. Martin

It happens little by little. . . Even in the context of a very faithful ministry, a pastor may be at risk of a gradual-but ultimately debilitating-downfall. Al Martin speaks from years of experience as he guides pastors to identify warning signs of dangerous paths: * Backsliding-a spiritual decline manifested first in the prayer closet. * Burnout-erosion of one's mental, emotional, psychological, and physical resiliency and buoyancy. * Washout-the loss of credibility among the people.

Genres: Christian Living

144 pages, Paperback

First published October 22, 2013

About the author

Pastor Albert N. Martin shepherded the people of Trinity Baptist Church in Montville, New Jersey for 46 years. He was a Reformed Baptist at least a quarter-century before anyone considered it to be cool. Now retired from ministry, he has written this book for Cruciform Press to recount what he learned from the death of his wife, Marilyn, at age 73. Grieving, Hope, and Solace is his second book, and his first for a lay audience. To offer a sense of the depth of Pastor Martin’s ministry, the late John Murray, Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, and author of several classic books, including Redemption Accomplished and Applied, once said regarding an upcoming conference,“If Al Martin is to be there I really think he should be asked to take the three evening services proposed for me. He is one of the ablest and most moving preachers I have ever heard…I have not heard his equal.”

Reviews

[Zack · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely a book that I will revisit (if not reread) often.

[Philip Harrelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are a pastor/minister, this book is a must! Especially at the beginning of the year. It goes into the various areas of burnout that leads to backsliding.

[Isaac · Rating 5 out of 5]

This volume should be on the shelf of every elder and teaching-elder, and it should be read and re-read. Incredibly useful. Although it is "geared" towards pastors, any Christian could read it with significant benefit.

[Timothy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an easy read, and fittingly so.
It provides useful tips and advice for pastors suffering from backsliding or burnout.

[Alex Spooner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came across this book due to the multiple references I seen on GoodReads; I would simply concur with all the previous comments. This will be without a doubt a yearly read along with “The Tale of Three Kings.”

[John Brackbill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart searching preaching to preachers. Focused especially on guarding against ministerial backsliding or burn out. Brimming with spiritual insight obvious wisdom from experience.

[Seth Channell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful

[Dylan Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book that is necessary for future and current pastors. I plan to read this again and again as I progress in my calling.

[Luis Munoz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book with great insights and guidance! All from a pastor who faithfully served the saints of Trinity Baptist Church for over 40 years! A book to return to over and over and over again.

[Adam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every potential and current pastor should take time and read to remind what the pastor is to be and to be doing.

[Pete Williamson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful book for any pastor who may feel he's "losing his edge". Martin doesn't pull any punches, but he writes with much wisdom and concern for his fellow pastors.