There are places in the Bible where the Apostle Paul describes the qualifications necessary to be a pastor (1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1:5-9).
But there are some additional characteristics I think every pastor should have if he wishes to survive until the next Easter service or deacons’ meeting… and believe me, I speak from experience.
This photo was taken at a bi-vocational pastor and wives retreat. These men were gathering around a fellow pastor who’s son who was a drug addict and missing.
Among other things, a pastor should have a thick skin, a broken heart, a humble spirit, and a hope that rests in the fact that Grace is there to pick up the pieces.
As for you, the congregations they lead, be reminded that the only perfect Shepherd was Jesus; the rest are human.
Pray that the light of Jesus will shine through the cracked vessel which is your pastor.
The Recovering Legalist 
Amen.:)
Amen Brother. If Pastors don’t have a prayer support team around them, a difficult position becomes even more difficult, and probably a shorter term than it should be.
Amen! It’s a tough, tough, job. Pray for their wives, too! Sometimes people can be something else and make me feel grateful I married a roofer. 🙂
Oh, if my wife would only write about her experiences! Honestly, I don’t know why any woman would have willingly endured what both the ministry and I have put her through. Yet, to hear her side of it, she’d ask the same thing. But for the grace of God… If it weren’t for Him we would have walked away from everything and everything a long time ago, but His love – Yes, HIS love – constrains us. The cross he bore…the pain he endured…the shame and reproach…the humiliation…but for the JOY that was set before Him he endured! It’s worth it. It’s worth it. With tears in my eyes as I type this, it’s worth it!!!
May you continue to be blessed and highly favored, Anthony. God is good, always. 🙂
Agreed with your additional qualifications mentioned