The greater the demands of ministry, the greater your need to pull away. Over the last two weeks, I shared five strategies for you to consider as a pastor when planning your next vacation.

Though the word “vacation” is not found in the Bible, there’s nothing unspiritual about taking a vacation. Even Charles Spurgeon is known for talking about how they’ve nourished his soul and prepared him for his next season of ministry.

But did you know there are three types of vacations you can take to get some much-needed R&R?

Mini-vacation: Lasts two to three days, and is normally planned after a pressured season of ministry, such as Easter! It generally runs from a Thursday through Monday. It can involve travel, or it can be a “stay-cation.”

Regular vacation: Lasts one or two weeks, which you take off around the same time each year. You should build consistency with this dedicated time. It acts as an anchor in your calendar.

Extended vacation: After ten years, you should consider taking a month off. This may coincide with a study break or a special anniversary. It’s reserved for certain seasons or celebrations.

Beware of the “false vacation”. This may be a vacation that’s tied to a denominational meeting, or to visiting extended family, where the focus isn’t on a time of rest and recreation with your immediate family.

Click here to read Part 1 of this series.

Click here to read Part 2 of this series.

Your partner in ministry,

Nelson

© Nelson Searcy. All Rights Reserved.

About Nelson Searcy

Nelson Searcy is an experienced church growth strategist, pastor, church planter and coach, consulting with churches around the world. As founder of Church Leader Insights and the Renegade Pastors Network, he has personally trained more than 3,500 church leaders in over 45 denominations through live events, seminars and monthly coaching. Nelson is also the Founding and Lead Pastor of The Journey Church, with locations across New York City and in Boca Raton, FL. Nelson and his church routinely appear on lists such as “The 50 Most Influential Churches” and “The 25 Most Innovative Leaders.” He is the author of over 100 church growth resources and 18+ books, including The Renegade Pastor: Abandoning Average in Your Life, Ministry and The Difference Maker: Using Your Everyday Life for Eternal Impact, and At the Cross with the People Who Were There. He and his wife, Kelley, have one son, Alexander.