Andy Davis is the Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church in Durham, North Carolina. When he arrived to begin his ministry, the church was not in good shape. Andy had to engage in many battles to bring about revitalization. If you can find the interview in which he tells the story about the early days, it’s worth the listen. It’s a fascinating tale.

Like any pastor, Andy faced many difficult days—especially early on. On one of those challenging Sunday afternoons, an older lady in the congregation knew her pastor was struggling. To encourage him, she recommended Psalm 37. Andy took her advice. He went home and read this life-giving Psalm.

Ever since I heard that story, I have used Psalm 37 to heal my hurting soul. When I face challenging times and problematic people in pastoral ministry, this is a go to Psalm for me, and I pray that it is for you too.

Allow me to highlight some helpful portions of this Psalm. My hope is that you will use God’s word as a resource for the soul.

Don’t get angry about difficult people

V.1-Fret not yourself because of evildoers;
      be not envious of wrongdoers!

V.7-Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him;
      fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way,
      over the man who carries out evil devices!

V.8-Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath!
      Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.

God tends to remove problematic people

V.2-Fret not yourself because of evildoers;
       be not envious of wrongdoers!

V.9-Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath!
      Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.

V.10-In just a little while, the wicked will be no more;
        though you look carefully at his place, he will not be there.

Continue trusting the Lord and doing the work you love

V.3-Trust in the Lord, and do good;
      dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.

V.4-Delight yourself in the Lord,
      and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Trust that the Lord will act on your behalf and vindicate your name.

V.5-Commit your way to the Lord;
      trust in him, and he will act.

V.6-He will bring forth your righteousness as the light,
      and your justice as the noonday.

Keep reading on. It’s a long, beautiful Psalm—a true balm for the broken soul. Brother Pastor, keep fighting the good fight of faith. Keep preaching the word and caring for souls. Your work is never in vain. The Lord will not forget what you have done for Him. He who called you is faithful. He will never leave you or forsake you. The crown will soon be yours.

Be sure to check out my new podcast—Faithful and Fruitful Pastoring.
It’s on Spotify and Apple. It’s for pastors and ministry leaders and designed to equip and encourage you for you ministry.