This is the first time that I've witnessed a pastor being so honest and vulnerable. I remember one sermon when he shared that he dealt with anxiety. Having anxiety myself, I know that it sometimes comes back when you do too much and you feel the same 'tiredness'. It's important to take care of yourself. I took 3 months leave from work for the same reason. God bless you pastor.
Its usually the board / leadership of the house that peer pressures the most using legalism, and repetition creates assumptions. Normally its the attendants / audience that are cool people and understands. There are exceptions ofcourse, in my humble opinion.
Yeah, and just imagine if you, Shelly, and this pastor were in a third world country where men risk their lives to share the Gospel for Christ's sake. Just imagine the overwhelming anxiety and "tiredness" you both would experience there at this present time. Better still, imagine what the Twelve Apostles went through for Christ's sake. Eleven of them died a martyr's death. Just imagine.
This had to be one of the most difficult sermons he's preached. I admire and respect his courage. Too many times, officers of the church find ourselves here but don't take a break... or don't take a long enough break... then become broken. I pray restoration for his spirit, rest for his soul, clarity for his assignment, and a greater anointing!!! SELAH!!!!!!!!
Coming from someone who is currently working and laboring 7 days a week, this just convicted me to take time to rest and recharge myself. Thank you for your example Sir
I’m watching this in March 2022 and I am in amazement! He preached Selah for himself and his congregation and the next thing you know the pandemic hit and the WHOLE WORLD HAD TO SELAH! What a wonderful Man of God! Straight Chills!
Dr. Wesley, your sermons have blessed my life regarding your honesty and transparency as a person! Continue to follow God as he restores and recharges you!
Amen. Hi Rollins, it's LaToya!😃 I've been following Dr. Wesley's preaching and teaching as well. He's definitely the TRUTH! I really do admire his realness.
Selah! Pastor Wesley your YT members will be here waiting for you. We aren’t going anywhere. I’m excited and I look forward to the well rested, fresh anointing, and all the amazing life changing sermons from you. I appreciate the gift that you are to me and the world. Take your time do you we love enough to understand you’re doing what’s best for you. We’re praying for you.
"Wrestling with God" Feels distant from God. Empty. Thank God he is this honest. Not surrendered. Thank God he's doing this. The enemy can't use him if he's aware. Selah, Pastor.
Dr. Howard John Wesley is one of the realest person I know. I have been watching & following him for years and he have helped to transform my life in a major way. May God continue to bless you Sir, Your children, your church family, everyone you touch around the world and everything you do. May God keep his mighty hands on you and keep on pouring his sweet anointing on you, because God can trust you to bring the messages to his people that others are afraid to. God guide and protect you always 🙏🏾. SELAH. I needed this word today and I received it today in Jesus name. Amen.
So glad he’s being transparent in humility. Congregations need to understand that their pastors need support & the opportunity to rest. Sir, be blessed & take the necessary time to step away to rest, rejuvenate, recover, renew, refresh, & get restored.
Great message and relevant. In addition, I am a pastor's wife, also in leadership, so we need a sabbatical as well. I am pulled in all sorts of directions and still have to be a wife, mother, go to work, finish school, etc. And, be there for people. I am running on empty. So, thank you for the reminder. Praying that you will encounter God in a mighty way and come back full.
I'm praying for you and your husband as you try to balance your church life and your home life. Remember that it won't kill anybody if you say no sometimes. Take care of yourselves. God bless your ministry!
Praying for you and your family. For him I doubt if he will encounter God on his sabbatical since he listed only worldly and fleshly things like golf, cooking classes etc. nothing about taking time to seek God.
@Please and Thank You Thank you for your prayers. No joke at all. And, the enemy often launches attacks during moments of weakness. Yet, God is more powerful and greater. So, during this time I will polish my armor, fill my arsenal with the Word, and be refreshed by God.
Pastor Wesley, God Bless YOU on YOUR sabbatical... and may He reveal to YOU the NEWEST things that even your eyes have not seen...nor have your ears have heard...the things that He has prepared for you, your family, The Alfred Street Baptist Church Family, and every ministerial place around the world! Go in the Name of Jesus...and allow God to fill your NEW horn with the freshest oil, and pour into you the ever flowing wine of the Spirit into the NEWEST wineskin. We bid you safe travels... Godspeed... and we’ll see ya’ when you return.... SELAH.🙏🏾❤️🤗
If any of you have been listening to pastor Wesley preach and teach in the last year or so you could see this coming. The content of his messages largely pointed to man lost and struggling. Good for him for stepping up and admitting he needs to step down for awhile.
Rachel It’s my first time listening to this Pastor and I admire him already. This is what Pastors need to do. Don’t let it go too far. They are humans too and need rest.
Rachel, I agree. When Pastor Wesley announced he was back in school, I thought how could he carried that load with all his responsibilities as a single parent and a 24/7 pastor. I am not a member of ASBC but I have visted several times and have been watching on line for a while...but, I am glad he is taking Selah for HIMSELF!
@Omar Savory Hi Omar. I heard that same sermon and saw him on a panel with other ministers expressing his belief that Jesus might not be the only way to salvation. And just like that...Jesus was reduced from being "THE way, THE truth, and THE light" to an option. That is a significant difference in the Christian church. It's okay for him feel this way but not while preaching in the pulpit of a Baptist church. I hope he finds a way to feel near God again...I've been there myself... it's quite depressing.
@Omar Savory , true. We as humans can begin a calling and become weary and disenfranchised and become doubtful and running on empty and relying on self as time wears on. We all do, i think that showed in his past year and a half of ministry. Some things he taught were questionable at times and caused you to pause when you heard it. Happy for the dude to take a needed break to recharge and recenter himself with the Lord. Good for him.
Pastor Wesley, I will be praying for and with you during your sabbatical. Rest and self-care is so important. We cannot take care of anything or anyone else if we don't care for ourselves. I learned the hard way: obesity, heart attack, open heart surgery and abandonment. As Whitley was told to repeat to herself in an episode of "A Different World" may you take time to... "Rest, Relax and Release!" Much love.
This spoke to me. I've been in my own Selah for 2 months and hear God saying...stay right there....people always want to tell you that you need to be in Church, or you need to be running around until exhausted. Selah Selah Selah.... Enjoy your Sabbatical HJW.
This is such a cutting edge Pastor and People. A role model for other congregations to emulate. I suspect Pastor HJW will return from his sabbatical refreshed and he will find a more mature parish to lead. All will benefit from this selah! I marvel at the water walking faith Pastor HJW exudes!
when you compare apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers, pastors seem to have the most pressure to be right theologically and in character. I think pastors are like counsellors and psychiatrists of the church, so when they teach, they are pressured to preach at people, but that goes against nature. Check dr leaf's work. Ministers should make sure they are not being peer pressured to do stuff, by family or friends etc, at the end they dont have to do it week in week out.
Don't worry, once pastors hear this sermon, most of them will be more than willing and ready to emulate this pastor. But first, they have to find out how their followers reacted to it. From the comments under this video, most of them seem to think it's a great idea! Why am I not surprised? We're living in the end times, and the Bible is still true.
A very honest and honorable message. To me, the fact that he's willing to take a step back as a means to prevent the enemy from stepping in is the type of christlike behavior we need in the church in the first place. ...This is exactly what Jesus did for us the "two nights" before the third day. I pray that this man comes back stronger than ever!!
@@rainyhollowell2280 Two nights, three months, however long it takes. What's important is that the pastor comes back stronger spiritually than he was before.
This message has me thinking. I will take better care of my body also. Thank you for pouring into my life. Get some rest! I will be here when you get back.
Years ago I left a denomination. We would have church 7 days a week, have a state holy convocation, go back to our own church and have a revival the following week. As a Deacon I would be on call 24/7 open the church, close the church, drive the van, to the point that my wife was in pain and I didn't even ask how she was doing when she came home from work, because I got called to the church. My wife eventually had to have surgery. I got burned out, that I was spiritual dead.i left that church and when I left I felt the burden was off me, I like going to other churches than go home and spend time with family. I loved that I didn't get called to open the church, drive the van start service, so I understand what pastor is saying but not what he went through. I didn't join a church for about six months and now I'm happy
@@craigacook8360 I understand what you went through. We serve the Lord through so many ministries and activities that we don't take time to rest like Jesus did. Jesus was our perfect example of maintaining balance in ministry. I'm glad you were able to get some rest and spend time with your family. I pray that you have found a church where you can freely serve with balance.
@@craigacook8360 I understand what you went through. Our churches have so many ministries and activities for us to serve in that we sometimes forget to maintain balance and rest like Jesus Christ did. He was our perfect example. I'm glad you were able to get the rest you needed and spend time with your family. I pray the Lord leads you to a good church home where you can serve where He wants you to serve without obligation or stress.
Selah! I am not a pastor or preacher, but I understand that deep tiredness and it is your body and spirit telling you to rest. We want him bringing the Word for many more years. Rest and recharge pastor.
I salute you Pastor Wesley for taking a sabbatical! I've always said pastoring is the hardest, most unappreciated position! Pastors are spiritual doctors--on call 24/7! Will be praying for you and all Pastors. May other pastors follow your lead and get some rest!
I absolutely loved this sermon. As a PK, and family full of Pastors and Preachers, many people don't really, totally understand what these men and women go through. It hits all areas of there life. It's a calling and work that never stops. Their spouses, children and families go through it as well. ASBC will be in good hands and so will Pastor Wesley. He will come back renewed and refreshed! I LOVE his transparency and authenticity! Until Easter Pastor Wesley, I'll be looking forward to your return.
Everyone in the bible had a job for a salary, they did their spiritual calling freely. It was donation based. Turning ministry into a salary is a tradition. If you make that a career, you only went to school for one thing. People in general should have a side business. It brings relief, especially if your talking to crowds of people every week. [If there is biblical example of a salary based ministry, please correct me if im wrong.]
I hope the church family received this message b/c this is a good pastor to know and acknowledge that he needs a break!. Not many pastors will this transparent .. Glory to God. Selah.. We all need to know when its time for us to take a break. This message blessed me.
Praying for ya Pastor Wesley a great example of preaching from the heart courage and humility. In my opinion true preaching tends to recondition your heart draws you nearer to God causes you to desire to operate like the love God has and when dealing with all the hate backstabbing promises from others unfulfilled and feeling un-appreciated it can have you waiting to exhale in need of some deep Selah I also serve as a Pastor for 20 years I feel ya blessing Pastor Wesley enjoy your sabbatical.
I FEEL THIS ON EVERY LEVEL!! Good bless him and his church. I pray that God cover them,and that they become stronger and wiser than ever. This is a POWERFUL and courageous act of obedience.
BLESS YOU MAN OF GOD! I ALSO HAD TO GIVE MYSELF A REST! NOT FROM GOD BUT FOR ME! SOMEBODY NEED TO HEAR THIS! REST RELAX & REVIVE! COME BACK STRONGER & BETTER! BLESSINGS!
Wishing Pastor Wesley the sweetest selah known to man. He definitely deserves it... plus that means we get to hear more from all the associate pastors who are equally talented and anointed!
Amazing sermon. I really enjoyed it immensely I give thanks to the selah I want to thank the younger pastor Who took over from the previous pastor And I thank him also for keeping the the believers motivated And bringing people towards God Amen to that I find that the Baptist sermon really motivates and it keeps me close to God and others Thank you once again ☝️💖👑 🌹
Pastor John Wesley I thank God for your transparency in this timely message. You reminded us that pastors are human too, and need to rest and rejuvenate to continue the work that God has called you to do. Your message has truly spoken to my spirit and the anxiety I had been experiencing due to possible being tired from work and ministry. Thank you for reminding us to follow Jesus' example to rest and take care of ourselves. May God restore and rejuvenate you, as you spend time resting in His Presence! God bless you, your family, and your church family!
I commend you for your truth Takes courage to bare one's soul You have inspired me Sir Praying you get renew and refresh and God fills you up with a new energy in Him to continue your assignments in His kingdom. God Bless you and your family Sir, always in all ways. Salute
Not just pastors I believe Levites need a break too, those who serve nonstop with no break, most times no break during and between multiple services on sunday, learning music at home, rehearsals, bible study, funerals, weddings and all the extra auxiliary services churches come up with and if you miss a beat you're fired I believe all those who serve should be given the liberty to take a break
I agree! Ministry burnout is real! Doing ministry in more than one service takes a significant amount of spiritual and mental energy. Even Jesus led his disciples to a secluded place so they can rest (Mark 6:30-32). Sometimes we’re so caught up in ministry that we do not allow time to allow the Lord to minister to us through solitude, rest, and restoration (Psalm 23).
You get fired from a job. Biblically speaking, spiritual callings are free or donation based. Servants dont take salarys, they are taken care of. People can get very isogetical when it comes to finances.
Man this speaks to me!! Not only does this this weight fall on Pastors but also the congregation. I know exactly how he feels. Serving the Lord is great but there is also a price. I'm not promoting a deterrence from God but you yourself have got to know when you need a break from the church atmosphere for a moment. This doesn't mean, you cease from seeking the Lord period. You may just need to spend time with God on a one on one basis. To grow in wisdom, stature and to clearly seek God for a more clear intimidate time with him to solidify your relationship with him. I been involved in church since I was 11 and been in plenty of ministries through my Christian walk. I been feeling this way for the past 2 years. Though I been pushing and pressing, I am getting weary. i feel drained. It might be time that I myself may need to take a break from the church atmosphere. ONLY FOR A MOMENT! I believe all Christians should. But be careful that you don't stay away too long. I have seen people who took a break and never came back. To the point where the devil manipulated or have them second guess the Christian faith. I don't see that happening to me. This spirit inside me is too strong for me stay away for good. Some of the Key things he said that stood out: “I believe in boundaries, and some of my personal life is none of your business,” he said to shouts of “Amen.” “I want to read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation without trying to write a sermon,” he said. “I want to travel and go sit in the back of somebody's church and hear the word of God and not be worried about what time we got to get out for the next crowd.” “When I started, I was working seven days a week. A member of the church at the time - an older lady - said, ‘Why do you work every day?’ I said, ‘The devil doesn’t take a day off.’ She said, ‘Why is the devil your role model?’ ” he said. “Jesus models that we need to rest.”
I have done that. I attend online for now. Funny thing is that I probably watch or listen to 20 sermons a week during my "break.". I love my church though so, I will be back right after the holidays. I am resting from several things right now. But not resting from my relationship with God, I'm actually increasing that. And I believe that the directive to rest came from God. I am being obedient.
@@ellec2935 I love the church I attend to. However, being in ministry for 30 years under many many ministry auxiliaries and not having a break to just sit and just absorb the word, will wear you down and that is where I'm at. From Church choirs, praise and worship groups, playing the drums, armor barrier, security, men's ministry, managing church finances, hospitality. Then hearing foolishness with gossip, back biting over and over and over and over again. My soul has had enough. Like Pastor right now I don't like church folk. I love yall but I don't like you. I need to get away so can enjoy fellowshipping with the saints again. I watch different church services online at home. I call it my even service at home. I get involved just the same way as if I was right in the congregation. Its refreshing. I already told my pastor I'm taking at 3-6 months off. Him and several others felt some kind of way about it because i'm and highly involved in the ministry but I have to obey God. Even if one person absent God never delay his glory from happening to any church because someone is absent. God always makes a way to make sure the show goes on.
Praise God for you Pastor Wesley!!! I have been following your ministry since you were in Massachusetts at St. John's. You came out here to California to run a 3 day revival at my sorors church (for 3 consecutive years) And you ain't missed a beat since. I look forward to the amazing things God will continue to do in your life. Selah my brother!
I have never ever seen such transparency. God Bless this Pastor. He’s following God’s direction. He deserves this. Pastoring is difficult. My husband is a minister and it’s tough. God Bless you Pastor. Selah 😊
🙏🏽🙏🏽Prayers for strength and peace for this shepherd. Also, prayers for this congregation’s obedience. May God renew his strength and mind. Selah...my, my, my...
I believe that this is necessary. Pastors are as human as you and I. Often we get so busy, we lose sight of what and why we do what we do. Being "so busy" can make us truly lose our way. And we need to take time to come back to our first TRUE love, that is our God.
We love and gonna miss you and Pastor Howard Wesley , I was watching you this morning on TV in Birmingham, Alabama Dec.18, Do know that rest and relaxation is a must so sit back renew and fellowship at home for a while we'll be here when you get back!! Now we see what GOD deals with every day so he says he got you, you've done well my faithful servant.. Be Blessed Pastor enjoy your Holidays and The New Year.
bless you, pastor, for YOUR courage, honesty, transparency i hope a throng of pastors/congregations follow you into sweet sabbatical enjoy your time away! 🤗
Pastor... I'm in a season of life caring for a variety of family concerns and I heard the word to take some time myself. I'm over 60 and health numbers are nothing to play with...but hearing that you are submitting to God calling you to selah is a blessing to your ministry and the people you touch. Too many of our black pastors are dropping dead or falling to sinful or distasteful behaviors because they just won't stop! Praying for you, your family and the ASBC. They all will be fine because you've placed them in your care... I just hope 3 months is enough...that's quite a list you have...smile peace, restoration and love to you...
Awesome message. I’m not surprised by the negative comments though. They probably have never served in ministry let a lone as a Pastor of a church. Besides the demanding aspect of ministry there is always the spiritual warfare. Yet some church folks think you’re suppose to be on 24/7 with or without a family. They don’t know what a persons goes through just to deliver the Message. I commend him! So many push through knowing they are not in a good place. Could this have been a contributing factor for some of the pastors we have heard taking their life? I’m not saying it is but I know that was almost my story. I sat myself down because I was battling suicide. I got sick and tired of showing up to church pretending I was ok and then go home fighting to live. Even when I was transparent with senior leadership and the church I was still expected to show up pray, preach, teach, helping others with their problems and anything else needed. Yet I was drying. So what did I do, I went to God! I was gone for 2 1/2 months. During that time the I was able to focus on my healing and deliverance. Today I am stronger than ever. Depression and suicide has no place in me. Listening to and being concerned about what people say can have you jacked up. God doesn’t need to talk to us or get our permission for His servant take a sabbatical. I know God was with me so I support Dr. Wesley. Some churches idea of sabbatical is taken from Lev. 25:1-5 25 The Lord said to Moses at Mount Sinai, 2 “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘When you enter the land I am going to give you, the land itself must observe a sabbath to the Lord. 3 For six years sow your fields, and for six years prune your vineyards and gather their crops. 4 But in the seventh year the land is to have a year of sabbath rest, a sabbath to the Lord. Do not sow your fields or prune your vineyards. 5 Do not reap what grows of itself or harvest the grapes of your untended vines. The land is to have a year of rest (NIV).
Pastor we love and appreciate you. You have to do what is good for you and what God has called you to do. Something Greater is coming. Deeper anointing is coming. I am involved in Ministry and I have been fighting the Lord for over a year. Finally, after trying to open doors that would not open, I realized that God had closed them and that He has been telling me that He closed the doors and for me to rest. So I've decided to take about the same amount of time that you were taking which is so bizarre. Not a coincidence I believe. Your testimony and your obedience is something that I needed to hear for myself. God is not finished with us. We have to be obedient. January 10th will be my last day inMinistry until God tells me to go back. *(3-5 months). I'm so grateful for this preaching and I'm very proud of you. We will keep you in prayer. Bigger is coming! Greater is xoming. Deeper is coming. A heavier anointing is coming. As a matter of fact I'm ordering a Selah t-shirt!😂🤣Selah...blessings
I am going to miss you. God has spoken to me through you in ways you’ll never understand. Go and rest Ps HJW. May you come back well rested, renewed and rejuvenated. I hope in this time you’re gonna travel. Should you end up in South Africa, i’ll take you out for coffee 😃. God Bless You.
Take a sabbatical every year Pastor. You deserve that. When you return, allow someone else to preach once a month. You pour out every Sunday. You deserve this. Take care of yourself. We are praying for you.
Pastorship/shepherd/counsellor is a spiritual calling, its not a career. People who get peer pressured into turning ministry into a salary, when they want to change careers, its hard if they only went to school for that. Everybody in the Bible times had a profession, they usually started at 12. Today people are over taught, all theory no application, no experience. I think, biblically speaking, spiritual callings are donation based, not salary based, in my humble opinion.
Pastor may you find the Selah that you seek during your sabbatical. God bless you on your journey, the Lord is waiting to commune with you on a deeper level.
Praise God for you Pastor... praying with you, may God restore your soul, & you be refreshed... Be Still & know that HE'S GOD... A few weeks earlier I asked my Pastor to do the Same... it does seem that a sabbatical is not really utter amongst "our" Churches.... but it is needed... We need our Pastors/ Leaders to be strong for us... often I've asked... who pours into them? They need refilling, they need to be refreshed and restored.... SELAH... Pastor... To God be the Glory
You got to take a sabbatical. Members and the Pastor can and will get burnt out. Pastors should give his members a break who commit themselves to the ministry daily. You got to rest
This is the first time that I've witnessed a pastor being so honest and vulnerable. I remember one sermon when he shared that he dealt with anxiety. Having anxiety myself, I know that it sometimes comes back when you do too much and you feel the same 'tiredness'. It's important to take care of yourself. I took 3 months leave from work for the same reason. God bless you pastor.
Ain't that a great thing. Amen!
Its usually the board / leadership of the house that peer pressures the most using legalism, and repetition creates assumptions. Normally its the attendants / audience that are cool people and understands. There are exceptions ofcourse, in my humble opinion.
Yeah, and just imagine if you, Shelly, and this pastor were in a third world country where men risk their lives to share the Gospel for Christ's sake. Just imagine the overwhelming anxiety and "tiredness" you both would experience there at this present time. Better still, imagine what the Twelve Apostles went through for Christ's sake. Eleven of them died a martyr's death. Just imagine.
Amen and yes, indeed!!
This had to be one of the most difficult sermons he's preached. I admire and respect his courage. Too many times, officers of the church find ourselves here but don't take a break... or don't take a long enough break... then become broken. I pray restoration for his spirit, rest for his soul, clarity for his assignment, and a greater anointing!!! SELAH!!!!!!!!
Coming from someone who is currently working and laboring 7 days a week, this just convicted me to take time to rest and recharge myself. Thank you for your example Sir
Mark Rheins Amen!!! When he said, use your PTO time, I felt that. I gave 40+ hours away this year 🙏🏾
Me too
I’m watching this in March 2022 and I am in amazement! He preached Selah for himself and his congregation and the next thing you know the pandemic hit and the WHOLE WORLD HAD TO SELAH! What a wonderful Man of God! Straight Chills!
Dr. Wesley, your sermons have blessed my life regarding your honesty and transparency as a person! Continue to follow God as he restores and recharges you!
Amen.
Hi Rollins, it's LaToya!😃
I've been following Dr. Wesley's preaching and teaching as well. He's definitely the TRUTH! I really do admire his realness.
Selah! Pastor Wesley your YT members will be here waiting for you. We aren’t going anywhere. I’m excited and I look forward to the well rested, fresh anointing, and all the amazing life changing sermons from you. I appreciate the gift that you are to me and the world. Take your time do you we love enough to understand you’re doing what’s best for you. We’re praying for you.
Kendra Michelle we most definitely will!!! Thank you for helping us all to be OBEDIENT!!
Wow! Just Wow!
"Wrestling with God" Feels distant from God. Empty. Thank God he is this honest. Not surrendered. Thank God he's doing this. The enemy can't use him if he's aware. Selah, Pastor.
Dr. Howard John Wesley is one of the realest person I know. I have been watching & following him for years and he have helped to transform my life in a major way. May God continue to bless you Sir, Your children, your church family, everyone you touch around the world and everything you do. May God keep his mighty hands on you and keep on pouring his sweet anointing on you, because God can trust you to bring the messages to his people that others are afraid to. God guide and protect you always 🙏🏾. SELAH. I needed this word today and I received it today in Jesus name. Amen.
So glad he’s being transparent in humility. Congregations need to understand that their pastors need support & the opportunity to rest. Sir, be blessed & take the necessary time to step away to rest, rejuvenate, recover, renew, refresh, & get restored.
Great message and relevant. In addition, I am a pastor's wife, also in leadership, so we need a sabbatical as well. I am pulled in all sorts of directions and still have to be a wife, mother, go to work, finish school, etc. And, be there for people. I am running on empty. So, thank you for the reminder. Praying that you will encounter God in a mighty way and come back full.
I'm praying for you and your husband as you try to balance your church life and your home life. Remember that it won't kill anybody if you say no sometimes. Take care of yourselves. God bless your ministry!
Maybe he'll encounter God during the bunch he's never had.
Praying for you and your family.
For him I doubt if he will encounter God on his sabbatical since he listed only worldly and fleshly things like golf, cooking classes etc. nothing about taking time to seek God.
@Please and Thank You
Thank you for your prayers. No joke at all. And, the enemy often launches attacks during moments of weakness. Yet, God is more powerful and greater. So, during this time I will polish my armor, fill my arsenal with the Word, and be refreshed by God.
Pastor Wesley, God Bless YOU on YOUR sabbatical... and may He reveal to YOU the NEWEST things that even your eyes have not seen...nor have your ears have heard...the things that He has prepared for you, your family, The Alfred Street Baptist Church Family, and every ministerial place around the world! Go in the Name of Jesus...and allow God to fill your NEW horn with the freshest oil, and pour into you the ever flowing wine of the Spirit into the NEWEST wineskin. We bid you safe travels... Godspeed... and we’ll see ya’ when you return.... SELAH.🙏🏾❤️🤗
This message is so powerful. The transparency of this Pastor is unbelievable. May God continue to bless you.
If any of you have been listening to pastor Wesley preach and teach in the last year or so you could see this coming. The content of his messages largely pointed to man lost and struggling. Good for him for stepping up and admitting he needs to step down for awhile.
Rachel It’s my first time listening to this Pastor and I admire him already. This is what Pastors need to do. Don’t let it go too far. They are humans too and need rest.
Rachel, I agree. When Pastor Wesley announced he was back in school, I thought how could he carried that load with all his responsibilities as a single parent and a 24/7 pastor. I am not a member of ASBC but I have visted several times and have been watching on line for a while...but, I am glad he is taking Selah for HIMSELF!
@Omar Savory Hi Omar. I heard that same sermon and saw him on a panel with other ministers expressing his belief that Jesus might not be the only way to salvation. And just like that...Jesus was reduced from being "THE way, THE truth, and THE light" to an option. That is a significant difference in the Christian church. It's okay for him feel this way but not while preaching in the pulpit of a Baptist church. I hope he finds a way to feel near God again...I've been there myself... it's quite depressing.
@Omar Savory , true. We as humans can begin a calling and become weary and disenfranchised and become doubtful and running on empty and relying on self as time wears on. We all do, i think that showed in his past year and a half of ministry. Some things he taught were questionable at times and caused you to pause when you heard it. Happy for the dude to take a needed break to recharge and recenter himself with the Lord. Good for him.
Pastor Wesley, I will be praying for and with you during your sabbatical. Rest and self-care is so important. We cannot take care of anything or anyone else if we don't care for ourselves. I learned the hard way: obesity, heart attack, open heart surgery and abandonment. As Whitley was told to repeat to herself in an episode of "A Different World" may you take time to... "Rest, Relax and Release!" Much love.
This spoke to me. I've been in my own Selah for 2 months and hear God saying...stay right there....people always want to tell you that you need to be in Church, or you need to be running around until exhausted. Selah Selah Selah.... Enjoy your Sabbatical HJW.
Check out JLP Show, JLP Bond, brian guerin, akiane kramarick, dr leaf on youtube, they're cool people.
This gives me great confidence in so many things God has been talking to me about! I pray for you all in this "Selah"!!
Who knew, but God, that a universal Selah was coming? A prophetic word, Pastor, and even more powerful watching for the second time. Thank you.
This is such a cutting edge Pastor and People. A role model for other congregations to emulate. I suspect Pastor HJW will return from his sabbatical refreshed and he will find a more mature parish to lead. All will benefit from this selah! I marvel at the water walking faith Pastor HJW exudes!
when you compare apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers, pastors seem to have the most pressure to be right theologically and in character. I think pastors are like counsellors and psychiatrists of the church, so when they teach, they are pressured to preach at people, but that goes against nature. Check dr leaf's work. Ministers should make sure they are not being peer pressured to do stuff, by family or friends etc, at the end they dont have to do it week in week out.
Don't worry, once pastors hear this sermon, most of them will be more than willing and ready to emulate this pastor. But first, they have to find out how their followers reacted to it. From the comments under this video, most of them seem to think it's a great idea! Why am I not surprised? We're living in the end times, and the Bible is still true.
My Lord I needed this 🙏🏾 🙌🏾
Rev. John Wesley what a heavy word. I really enjoyed it. God bless you sir.
Rev. Wesley, you've blessed us so much through the internet. We're praying for this time for you!
TH-cam congregation, we need to ensure we are praying regularly for him from now until he returns.
Elle C Amen
yesss... Amen. thank you for this example.
Yes My prayers are with him
Amen!
I love this man of God! I applaud him for facing the FEAR of the unknown. Such a beautiful message. Selah. From Dallas TX
A very honest and honorable message. To me, the fact that he's willing to take a step back as a means to prevent the enemy from stepping in is the type of christlike behavior we need in the church in the first place.
...This is exactly what Jesus did for us the "two nights" before the third day.
I pray that this man comes back stronger than ever!!
Compare "two nights" to three months.
@@rainyhollowell2280
Two nights, three months, however long it takes. What's important is that the pastor comes back stronger spiritually than he was before.
@@rainbowbrite55 Sure. Rest well and be sure to have a wonderful new week!
God Bless for your honesty of just being human and not superman. We're praying that God renews His strength in you.
Amen!
This message has me thinking. I will take better care of my body also. Thank you for pouring into my life. Get some rest! I will be here when you get back.
Amen! If you don't who will. You better.
Years ago I left a denomination. We would have church 7 days a week, have a state holy convocation, go back to our own church and have a revival the following week. As a Deacon I would be on call 24/7 open the church, close the church, drive the van, to the point that my wife was in pain and I didn't even ask how she was doing when she came home from work, because I got called to the church. My wife eventually had to have surgery.
I got burned out, that I was spiritual dead.i left that church and when I left I felt the burden was off me, I like going to other churches than go home and spend time with family. I loved that I didn't get called to open the church, drive the van start service, so I understand what pastor is saying but not what he went through. I didn't join a church for about six months and now I'm happy
@@craigacook8360 I understand what you went through. We serve the Lord through so many ministries and activities that we don't take time to rest like Jesus did. Jesus was our perfect example of maintaining balance in ministry. I'm glad you were able to get some rest and spend time with your family. I pray that you have found a church where you can freely serve with balance.
@@craigacook8360 I understand what you went through. Our churches have so many ministries and activities for us to serve in that we sometimes forget to maintain balance and rest like Jesus Christ did. He was our perfect example. I'm glad you were able to get the rest you needed and spend time with your family. I pray the Lord leads you to a good church home where you can serve where He wants you to serve without obligation or stress.
What a great demonstration of leadership and I appreciate your communication of your needs and I support you in this sabbatical. SELAH💖
Thank you, Dr. Howard- John Wesley. God is with you. God will be with the members of the church.
From a fellow pastor, thank you for this reminder and these dear and holy words. Thank you brother.
My local pastor takes a rest for 2-3 weeks a few times per year. Because he takes that time, he doesn't fall into exhaustion.
Selah! I am not a pastor or preacher, but I understand that deep tiredness and it is your body and spirit telling you to rest. We want him bringing the Word for many more years. Rest and recharge pastor.
i admire the courage to be vulnerable !!!!! GREAT JOB MAN OF GOD!!!
I salute you Pastor Wesley for taking a sabbatical! I've always said pastoring is the hardest, most unappreciated position! Pastors are spiritual doctors--on call 24/7! Will be praying for you and all Pastors. May other pastors follow your lead and get some rest!
Oh yes! We all need to refocus and get back on track..
I absolutely loved this sermon. As a PK, and family full of Pastors and Preachers, many people don't really, totally understand what these men and women go through. It hits all areas of there life. It's a calling and work that never stops. Their spouses, children and families go through it as well. ASBC will be in good hands and so will Pastor Wesley. He will come back renewed and refreshed! I LOVE his transparency and authenticity! Until Easter Pastor Wesley, I'll be looking forward to your return.
Everyone in the bible had a job for a salary, they did their spiritual calling freely. It was donation based. Turning ministry into a salary is a tradition. If you make that a career, you only went to school for one thing. People in general should have a side business. It brings relief, especially if your talking to crowds of people every week.
[If there is biblical example of a salary based ministry, please correct me if im wrong.]
Love the transparency!! God bless him !!
A lot of preaches need this boldness!! Being able to communicate to real no matter what people say!!!!!! I’ve been on a sabbatical myself.
I hope the church family received this message b/c this is a good pastor to know and acknowledge that he needs a break!. Not many pastors will this transparent .. Glory to God. Selah.. We all need to know when its time for us to take a break. This message blessed me.
Glory to God for this man of God.🙌🏾
One of my favorite TH-cam Pastors. 💛✨
Amen! God is good.
Thank you,thank you I truly needed this word on this day! Do what you need to do in Jesus name.
Praying for ya Pastor Wesley a great example of preaching from the heart courage and humility. In my opinion true preaching tends to recondition your heart draws you nearer to God causes you to desire to operate like the love God has and when dealing with all the hate backstabbing promises from others unfulfilled and feeling un-appreciated it can have you waiting to exhale in need of some deep Selah I also serve as a Pastor for 20 years I feel ya blessing Pastor Wesley enjoy your sabbatical.
I FEEL THIS ON EVERY LEVEL!! Good bless him and his church. I pray that God cover them,and that they become stronger and wiser than ever. This is a POWERFUL and courageous act of obedience.
respect to him for being honest + real flawed human like the rest of us
This is absolutely beautiful! Thank you Pastor for your transparency.
Praise God! Fill his cup Lord and allow him to selah during this season. Praying for you pastor.
BLESS YOU MAN OF GOD! I ALSO HAD TO GIVE MYSELF A REST! NOT FROM GOD BUT FOR ME! SOMEBODY NEED TO HEAR THIS! REST RELAX & REVIVE! COME BACK STRONGER & BETTER! BLESSINGS!
fave message STILL!!
Wishing Pastor Wesley the sweetest selah known to man. He definitely deserves it... plus that means we get to hear more from all the associate pastors who are equally talented and anointed!
Amen! Sometimes God tells us to move over and let someone else do hos will while you restmm.
Selah Pastor HJW, I'll be here when you come back
Amazing sermon.
I really enjoyed it immensely
I give thanks to the selah
I want to thank the younger pastor
Who took over from the previous pastor
And I thank him also for keeping the the believers motivated
And bringing people towards God
Amen to that
I find that the Baptist sermon really motivates and it keeps me close to God and others
Thank you once again
☝️💖👑 🌹
Pastor John Wesley I thank God for your transparency in this timely message. You reminded us that pastors are human too, and need to rest and rejuvenate to continue the work that God has called you to do. Your message has truly spoken to my spirit and the anxiety I had been experiencing due to possible being tired from work and ministry. Thank you for reminding us to follow Jesus' example to rest and take care of ourselves. May God restore and rejuvenate you, as you spend time resting in His Presence! God bless you, your family, and your church family!
I commend you for your truth
Takes courage to bare one's soul
You have inspired me Sir
Praying you get renew and refresh and God fills you up with a new energy in Him to continue your assignments in His kingdom.
God Bless you and your family Sir, always in all ways.
Salute
Thank Pastor Wesley!!!! Praying for you and Alfred St during SELAH!!!!
Praying for your complete restoration and renewal of your strength and God Bless your congregation during this time.
Not just pastors I believe Levites need a break too, those who serve nonstop with no break, most times no break during and between multiple services on sunday, learning music at home, rehearsals, bible study, funerals, weddings and all the extra auxiliary services churches come up with and if you miss a beat you're fired I believe all those who serve should be given the liberty to take a break
I agree! Ministry burnout is real! Doing ministry in more than one service takes a significant amount of spiritual and mental energy. Even Jesus led his disciples to a secluded place so they can rest (Mark 6:30-32). Sometimes we’re so caught up in ministry that we do not allow time to allow the Lord to minister to us through solitude, rest, and restoration (Psalm 23).
Philly4/4 So true! Ministers of music carry the various services of the church. What would a church experience be without music/ the Levite’s?
Good luck with that...
You get fired from a job. Biblically speaking, spiritual callings are free or donation based. Servants dont take salarys, they are taken care of. People can get very isogetical when it comes to finances.
Andrade what in the world r u talking bout
Man this speaks to me!! Not only does this this weight fall on Pastors but also the congregation. I know exactly how he feels. Serving the Lord is great but there is also a price. I'm not promoting a deterrence from God but you yourself have got to know when you need a break from the church atmosphere for a moment. This doesn't mean, you cease from seeking the Lord period. You may just need to spend time with God on a one on one basis. To grow in wisdom, stature and to clearly seek God for a more clear intimidate time with him to solidify your relationship with him.
I been involved in church since I was 11 and been in plenty of ministries through my Christian walk. I been feeling this way for the past 2 years. Though I been pushing and pressing, I am getting weary. i feel drained. It might be time that I myself may need to take a break from the church atmosphere. ONLY FOR A MOMENT! I believe all Christians should. But be careful that you don't stay away too long. I have seen people who took a break and never came back. To the point where the devil manipulated or have them second guess the Christian faith. I don't see that happening to me. This spirit inside me is too strong for me stay away for good.
Some of the Key things he said that stood out:
“I believe in boundaries, and some of my personal life is none of your business,” he said to shouts of “Amen.”
“I want to read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation without trying to write a sermon,” he said. “I want to travel and go sit in the back of somebody's church and hear the word of God and not be worried about what time we got to get out for the next crowd.”
“When I started, I was working seven days a week. A member of the church at the time - an older lady - said, ‘Why do you work every day?’ I said, ‘The devil doesn’t take a day off.’ She said, ‘Why is the devil your role model?’ ” he said. “Jesus models that we need to rest.”
I have done that. I attend online for now. Funny thing is that I probably watch or listen to 20 sermons a week during my "break.". I love my church though so, I will be back right after the holidays. I am resting from several things right now. But not resting from my relationship with God, I'm actually increasing that. And I believe that the directive to rest came from God. I am being obedient.
@@ellec2935 I love the church I attend to. However, being in ministry for 30 years under many many ministry auxiliaries and not having a break to just sit and just absorb the word, will wear you down and that is where I'm at. From Church choirs, praise and worship groups, playing the drums, armor barrier, security, men's ministry, managing church finances, hospitality. Then hearing foolishness with gossip, back biting over and over and over and over again. My soul has had enough. Like Pastor right now I don't like church folk. I love yall but I don't like you. I need to get away so can enjoy fellowshipping with the saints again. I watch different church services online at home. I call it my even service at home. I get involved just the same way as if I was right in the congregation. Its refreshing. I already told my pastor I'm taking at 3-6 months off. Him and several others felt some kind of way about it because i'm and highly involved in the ministry but I have to obey God. Even if one person absent God never delay his glory from happening to any church because someone is absent. God always makes a way to make sure the show goes on.
Selah.. Rev Wesley.God bless you during this time of reflection.
Praise God for you Pastor Wesley!!! I have been following your ministry since you were in Massachusetts at St. John's. You came out here to California to run a 3 day revival at my sorors church (for 3 consecutive years) And you ain't missed a beat since. I look forward to the amazing things God will continue to do in your life. Selah my brother!
I have so much respect for Pastor Westley! Transparent. The Lord is soooooo awesome.
I have never ever seen such transparency. God Bless this Pastor. He’s following God’s direction. He deserves this. Pastoring is difficult. My husband is a minister and it’s tough. God Bless you Pastor. Selah 😊
🙏🏽🙏🏽Prayers for strength and peace for this shepherd. Also, prayers for this congregation’s obedience. May God renew his strength and mind. Selah...my, my, my...
Praise God for this awesome man
I believe that this is necessary. Pastors are as human as you and I. Often we get so busy, we lose sight of what and why we do what we do. Being "so busy" can make us truly lose our way. And we need to take time to come back to our first TRUE love, that is our God.
We love and gonna miss you and Pastor Howard Wesley , I was watching you this morning on TV in Birmingham, Alabama Dec.18, Do know that rest and relaxation is a must so sit back renew and fellowship at home for a while we'll be here when you get back!! Now we see what GOD deals with every day so he says he got you, you've done well my faithful servant.. Be Blessed Pastor enjoy your Holidays and The New Year.
bless you, pastor, for YOUR courage, honesty, transparency
i hope a throng of pastors/congregations follow you into sweet sabbatical
enjoy your time away! 🤗
Praise God for your transparency and obedience!!! Thank you for speaking to this soul in Arkansas!! ❤️🙏🏾❤️
Respect his humility and obedience to God. Take your rest pastor. Looking forward to a powerful word when you return. 🙏🙏
Pastor... I'm in a season of life caring for a variety of family concerns and I heard the word to take some time myself. I'm over 60 and health numbers are nothing to play with...but hearing that you are submitting to God calling you to selah is a blessing to your ministry and the people you touch. Too many of our black pastors are dropping dead or falling to sinful or distasteful behaviors because they just won't stop! Praying for you, your family and the ASBC. They all will be fine because you've placed them in your care... I just hope 3 months is enough...that's quite a list you have...smile peace, restoration and love to you...
... I meant God's care....
Oh yes! We must take care of self in order to be better for our own self and others. Amen!
This is an awesome word by this man of God!! Be blessed
Love you Pastor Wesley! Get revived for the season to come!
thank you for your honesty. blessings to you, your family, and your church!
Awesome message. I’m not surprised by the negative comments though. They probably have never served in ministry let a lone as a Pastor of a church. Besides the demanding aspect of ministry there is always the spiritual warfare. Yet some church folks think you’re suppose to be on 24/7 with or without a family. They don’t know what a persons goes through just to deliver the Message. I commend him! So many push through knowing they are not in a good place. Could this have been a contributing factor for some of the pastors we have heard taking their life? I’m not saying it is but I know that was almost my story. I sat myself down because I was battling suicide. I got sick and tired of showing up to church pretending I was ok and then go home fighting to live. Even when I was transparent with senior leadership and the church I was still expected to show up pray, preach, teach, helping others with their problems and anything else needed. Yet I was drying. So what did I do, I went to God! I was gone for 2 1/2 months. During that time the I was able to focus on my healing and deliverance. Today I am stronger than ever. Depression and suicide has no place in me. Listening to and being concerned about what people say can have you jacked up. God doesn’t need to talk to us or get our permission for His servant take a sabbatical. I know God was with me so I support Dr. Wesley. Some churches idea of sabbatical is taken from Lev. 25:1-5 25 The Lord said to Moses at Mount Sinai, 2 “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘When you enter the land I am going to give you, the land itself must observe a sabbath to the Lord. 3 For six years sow your fields, and for six years prune your vineyards and gather their crops. 4 But in the seventh year the land is to have a year of sabbath rest, a sabbath to the Lord. Do not sow your fields or prune your vineyards. 5 Do not reap what grows of itself or harvest the grapes of your untended vines. The land is to have a year of rest (NIV).
Pastor we love and appreciate you. You have to do what is good for you and what God has called you to do. Something Greater is coming. Deeper anointing is coming. I am involved in Ministry and I have been fighting the Lord for over a year. Finally, after trying to open doors that would not open, I realized that God had closed them and that He has been telling me that He closed the doors and for me to rest. So I've decided to take about the same amount of time that you were taking which is so bizarre. Not a coincidence I believe. Your testimony and your obedience is something that I needed to hear for myself. God is not finished with us. We have to be obedient. January 10th will be my last day inMinistry until God tells me to go back. *(3-5 months). I'm so grateful for this preaching and I'm very proud of you. We will keep you in prayer. Bigger is coming! Greater is xoming. Deeper is coming. A heavier anointing is coming. As a matter of fact I'm ordering a Selah t-shirt!😂🤣Selah...blessings
Praying for you. Thank you for teaching the Biblical principles of sabbatical.
Awesome. People think us as preachers are super-human but at times it can be stressful. Get some rest Pastor.
Pastor Jeff Short, you’re absolutely right! May God Bless and keep you! Take care of yourself as well.🙏🏾
@@trecec3541 Thank you and may God bless you too
Pastor Jeff, Thank you so much!
Yeah, a whole three month's worth.
Amen.. Get some rest Pastor. May God continue to bless you ! You deserve it!
Amen! We all need rest.
I am going to miss you. God has spoken to me through you in ways you’ll never understand. Go and rest Ps HJW. May you come back well rested, renewed and rejuvenated. I hope in this time you’re gonna travel. Should you end up in South Africa, i’ll take you out for coffee 😃. God Bless You.
Pastors are human. It will be well with the church.. God bless
Praying for your strength 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿
This is soo good... I don’t know how I end up on this, but I know God is Speaking to me...
God bless you you are a true leader inspiring through the spirit
Take a sabbatical every year Pastor. You deserve that. When you return, allow someone else to preach once a month. You pour out every Sunday. You deserve this. Take care of yourself. We are praying for you.
Pastorship/shepherd/counsellor is a spiritual calling, its not a career. People who get peer pressured into turning ministry into a salary, when they want to change careers, its hard if they only went to school for that.
Everybody in the Bible times had a profession, they usually started at 12. Today people are over taught, all theory no application, no experience. I think, biblically speaking, spiritual callings are donation based, not salary based, in my humble opinion.
@@adrian3865 what does that have to do with my comment.
And to think he took a much needed rest right before corona started. Bless u pastor...
May God bless you through your rest sir. I wish many Pastors in Chicago took sabbaticals. Self care is so necessary
Take a rest dear brother...pause, rest, chill....be blessed
It's God's church....but yes Pastor, people will 'wait' for YOU to return...let's hope they get the message.
I have learnt that I need to take rest. ..Selah. I have been spoken to. Praying for greater anointing. Blessings
Pastor may you find the Selah that you seek during your sabbatical. God bless you on your journey, the Lord is waiting to commune with you on a deeper level.
Yes! We all need God to show up in our life like thst.
Praise God for you Pastor... praying with you, may God restore your soul, & you be refreshed... Be Still & know that HE'S GOD... A few weeks earlier I asked my Pastor to do the Same... it does seem that a sabbatical is not really utter amongst "our" Churches.... but it is needed... We need our Pastors/ Leaders to be strong for us... often I've asked... who pours into them? They need refilling, they need to be refreshed and restored.... SELAH... Pastor... To God be the Glory
'Why is the Devil your role model?'......lordamercy...
Beth Ward That shook me!
Beth Ward yes! When I heard that I was like wow!
He took me out with that one, smh!
God bless you Pastor...
This is so Powerful!!
I am always blessed by your sermons. May God bless you as you take your Sabbatical. Come back renewed. Will miss your sermons though
Wise Decision...Very wise!!!
Love his transparency. Shelah 🙏🏽
Praying for you and your strength
This is so Good!!!!!! Wonderful message!!!
You got to take a sabbatical. Members and the Pastor can and will get burnt out. Pastors should give his members a break who commit themselves to the ministry daily. You got to rest
Rest Pastor HJW!! So real!!
Yes!!! Do a year! Be bless brother
I'm taking a rest this very weekend, need to be like my heavenly father