The following is a brief introduction by John Piper to a very honest journal entry. As a pastor I appreciate his sound advice and example as a reference point and encouragement for navigating my own questions and inner conflicts. Here is the link to the rest of the story: How I Almost Quit. I hope it encourages others not to give up too quickly during uncertain seasons of ministry.

Are you so discouraged you don’t know what to do next? I want to help you get through this. Maybe this will help. The following quote is from my journal dated November 6, 1986. I had been at Bethlehem 6 years. If you have ever felt like this, remember this is 24 years ago and I am still here. The point is: Beware of giving up too soon. Our emotions are not reliable guides.