What To Do When You Feel Like Throwing In The Towel

Being a pastor of a small church can be a challenging and demanding role. The responsibilities are numerous, resources are often limited, and the journey can sometimes feel isolating. It's not uncommon for pastors of small churches to experience moments of frustration and contemplate quitting. However, before making such a decision, it's crucial to pause, reflect, and seek renewed purpose. This post aims to encourage pastors of small churches who may be feeling fed up and considering quitting, offering them hope, perspective, and practical advice.

1. Rediscover Your Calling:

Remember why you answered the call to ministry in the first place. Reflect on the initial passion, the sense of purpose, and the desire to serve God's people. Reconnecting with your calling can reignite your motivation and remind you of the impact you can have on the lives of those within your church community.

2. Seek Support:

Do not shoulder the burden alone. Reach out to fellow pastors, mentors, or trusted friends who can offer guidance, understanding, and encouragement. Share your struggles and seek advice from those who have experienced similar challenges. Remember, you are not alone in your journey.

3. Embrace Self-Care:

As a pastor, it's crucial to prioritize self-care. Often, the pressures of ministry can consume every aspect of your life. Take intentional steps to care for your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Make time for rest, engage in activities that bring you joy, and nurture your relationship with God through prayer, worship and time reading the Bible for your personal benefit.

4. Refocus on the Core Mission:

Revisit the core mission of your church. Remind yourself of the transformative power of sharing the gospel and serving others. Take time to evaluate your ministry's impact, celebrating the lives that have been touched and the growth that has taken place. By focusing on the lives you've positively influenced, you can find renewed purpose and motivation.

5. Identify and Celebrate Small Wins:

Recognize the small victories within your ministry. Celebrate moments of growth, even if they seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things. These wins may include increased attendance, meaningful connections made, or testimonies of lives changed. Embracing these victories, however small, can rejuvenate your spirit and give you the strength to press on.

6. Collaborate and Build a Supportive Community:

Reach out to other pastors or church leaders in your area who face similar challenges. Establish a network or support group where you can share insights, resources, and experiences. Collaborating with others can provide fresh perspectives, inspire new ideas, and offer encouragement during difficult times.


To pastors of small churches who feel fed up and contemplate quitting, remember that your work is significant and valued. Take time to reflect on your calling, seek support, prioritize self-care, refocus on your church's mission, celebrate small wins, and collaborate with like-minded individuals. Remember that challenges are an inevitable part of ministry, but they can also be catalysts for growth and transformation. By embracing these suggestions, you can find renewed purpose, strength, and inspiration to continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of your congregation and your community. Stay resilient and trust that your dedication is making a difference. 


We are here for you! If you feel like throwing in the towel, we hear you but before you do please reach out to us...



Small Church Guys exists to serve you and your congregation, and we are committed to empower small churches to make a difference in their communities. We believe that no church is too small to have an impact, and we're here to help you fulfill your mission. If you are interested in learning more about how we can support you please give us a call or visit our website we hope to hear from you...

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