Gradually, Then Suddenly

Spiritual, Emotional, and Physical Resiliency | Gospel Centered Mentoring

In The Sun Also Rises, Ernest Hemingway captures a universal truth about decline. One character asks, “How did you go bankrupt?” The other responds, “Two ways. Gradually, then suddenly.”

This doesn’t just happen with bank accounts—it also can happen with our spiritual, emotional, and physical health. Sudden decline rarely happens overnight. It’s a slow, steady drift until one day, we wake up and realize:

• We've fallen into a pet sin that is now controlling our life and ministry.

• We have lost connection with our spouse and our marriage has become mechanical and obligatory.

• We've developed health issues as a result of neglecting our bodies.

Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash

That’s the bad news. But here’s the good news: God’s love, grace, and forgiveness are abundant. We are forgiven for the times that we have bankrupted our soul, mind, and body. But just as decline happens gradually, then suddenly, renewal can, too. Through His blessing, a "drip culture" of steady, intentional care for our spiritual, emotional, and physical health can lead to abundant resilience. Small, faithful steps—day by day—bring renewal and a deeper reliance on Him:

• Spiritual: Small, daily doses of time in the Word and prayer strengthens our faith.

• Emotional: The pursuit of our spouse through meaningful connection and daily conversation builds a stronger marriage.

• Physical: Simple, consistent movement, diet, and sleep habits promote wellness and ministry longevity.

This God-given resilience doesn’t exempt us from the challenges of a broken world. But it equips us with the perspective and tools to navigate them in a way that honors Him.

Shawn Herkstroeter has 28 years of WELS school ministry experience. He currently serves as a ministry and leadership coach for Grace in Action where he strives to help WELS school leaders, teachers, and staff ministers find balance, health, and joy in their life and ministry. He is also a lead consultant for BluePrint Schools and an adjunct professor for Wisconsin Lutheran College. He believes that one's three-legged stool--spiritual, emotional, and physical health is paramount for personal wellness and ministry effectiveness. He strives to love his wife and children like Jesus does and enjoys working out, golfing, bow hunting and pheasant hunting with his bird dog, Bella.