In my coaching practice, one of the most impactful tools I’ve used is something called the Wheel of Life Assessment. It’s a simple, visual way to reflect on different areas of your personal and professional life—helping you see where things are strong and where they may need some attention.
Over the years, I’ve adapted this tool into a Pastoral Edition specifically for church leaders. This version addresses the unique challenges and responsibilities that come with shepherding God’s people. Whether you’re preparing for an intensive retreat, walking through one, or processing what God has shown you afterward, this tool can serve as a compass for your growth and renewal.
A Lesson from the Head of Vineyard Health and Well-Being
In Luke 13:6–9, Jesus tells a parable that every leader should take to heart.
A vineyard owner had a fig tree that had been growing for three years—but in all that time, it had produced no fruit. Frustrated, he decided it was time to cut it down. After all, it was taking up valuable space and resources.
But the head groundskeeper offered a different perspective. He said:
“Sir, leave it alone for one more year, until I dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.”
Instead of giving up, the groundskeeper proposed three specific actions:
- Give the tree specific attention – Dig around the tree and tend to it intentionally.
- Feed the tree what it needs – Provide the right nutrients and fertilizer to ensure growth.
- Allow the tree time to bear fruit – Give it, not only, the space but provide the patience to see if the tree would produce fruit in a new season.
What This Means for You and Your Ministry
The truth is, there are seasons in life and ministry when we feel like that fig tree. We’re planted, we’ve been working hard, and yet… we don’t see the fruit we expected. In those moments, it’s easy to think the answer is to tear things down or walk away.
But what if God’s invitation is different?
What if He’s calling us to pause, dig around, nourish what’s been neglected, and give ourselves the grace of time?
Why I Created the Pastoral Wheel of Life
That’s exactly what the Pastoral Wheel of Life is designed to help you do.
It’s a self-assessment tool that invites you to:
- Look closely at different areas of your life and ministry
- Identify where you’re healthy and where you’re struggling
- Reflect through journal prompts that help you discover the hope, clarity and strength you need to make real changes
- Plan intentional next steps to move toward greater health and well-being
This isn’t about grading yourself or adding more to your to-do list. It’s about creating space for the Holy Spirit to speak into your leadership, your relationships, your rhythms, and your soul.
A Practical Next Step
If you’re sensing that certain areas of your life or ministry aren’t producing the fruit you desire, don’t rush to burn it all down. Instead:
- Give these areas your attention – Be willing to assess honestly and without judgment
- Feed them well – Invest in the practices, people, and priorities that bring you life
- Give them time – Fruit takes seasons to grow. Trust in God’s timing and his provision.
The Pastoral Wheel of Life is a simple but powerful tool to identify areas of health and areas of unhealthy. I hope that it blesses you and helps you begin to create the conditions needed for a new season of growth in your life and leadership.
Download your free Pastoral Wheel of Life Assessment here and take the first step toward greater health and well-being.
Ready to Begin Your Next Season Rooted in Hope, Clarity, and Strength?
You don’t have to navigate ministry pressures, burnout, or imbalance on your own. At Kicking at the Darkness, we walk alongside pastors and church leaders to help them lead from a place of health, clarity, and strength.
Let’s Talk: Schedule a free 30-minute conversation to explore where you are now, where God is calling you, and how you can take intentional steps toward a fruitful new season.
Email: info@kickingatthedarkness.com
Website: www.kickingatthedarkness.com
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” – John 1:5