John Stott on Pastoral Temptations

From Basic Christian: The Inside Story of John Stott:

Giving an interview in Hong Kong, John was asked whether he had ever experienced great temptations or thought of giving up his ministry.

“Pastors are especially vulnerable to temptation,” he said in the course of his reply. “Our chief problems are discouragement and loneliness. These can easily lead to burnout and so to giving up the struggle. I have never really been tempted to this because I have taken precautions. I have recognized that human beings are psychosomatic creatures, so that our bodily condition has a powerful influence on our spiritual life. I have tried to maintain a disciplined life, ensuring adequate sleep, food and exercise. I have known the great value of friends, to overcome loneliness. Birdwatching is excellent recreation…I don’t think birdwatchers get nervous breakdowns! I have found, however, that most important of all is a disciplined devotional life, with a determination to meet Christ every day.”