The Soul of a Youth Pastor

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” – Matthew 22:37

This is part two of our series based on Matthew 22:37. Let’s talk about our soul. Much of this post is common sense for us, but it needs to be said. We need to be reminded of the value of soul care.

In my last post, The Heart of a Youth Pastor, we talked about the deep calling to love God first and lead students well. But what happens when our own souls feel dry? How do we tend our soul while tending the souls of others?

The answer isn’t in doing more—it’s in drawing closer to Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

Letting the Shepherd Lead Us

We spend so much time leading that we forget we’re still sheep. Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11). Before we are pastors, we are His. Before we feed others, we must be fed.

Lately, I’ve been asking myself: Am I letting Jesus tend my soul, or am I running on empty, trying to handle it all myself?

Resting in His Care

Shepherds don’t just guide—they protect and restore. David reminds us in Psalm 23: “He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul.”

If Jesus is leading us, why do we resist rest? Why do we believe the lie that the ministry will fall apart if we take a breath? Soul-care isn’t selfish—it’s survival. A shepherd never expects his sheep to run ahead; he calls them to walk with him.

A Challenge for You

Let’s be honest—when was the last time you sat with Jesus, not to plan or prepare, but just to be with Him?

• Are you spending more time leading others to the Good Shepherd than following Him yourself?
• Do you find your soul thriving, or just surviving?
• What would change if you prioritized your own time with Jesus as much as you prioritize your ministry?

I challenge you—this week, set aside time to be with Jesus. No sermon prep. No leadership books. No distractions. Just you and Him. Silence and solitude. Let the Good Shepherd care for your soul.

Because a well-tended soul is a soul that leads well.

How’s your soul today? If you need some advice or beginning to feel run down and depleted. Connect with me and I’d love to help shepherd you. Shoot me an email at steve@freshcalling.org and we’ll connect.