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Sometimes one can feel this way. There are three explanations for this:
1. The preacher does not know the heart of God
2. The hearer does not know the heart of God
3. There is a mix of both

Perhaps the third is most common. The preacher is a little mad that people aren’t going harder. The hearers are a little insecure in God’s love and fear that He’s mad most of the time, so it’s best to just assume the worst: that I’m messed up and God’s mad for good reason. I’m writing this post to show that, according to the Bible, there are three kinds of people who are struggling. It’s not necessary to assume the worst: in fact, to assume the worst may well hinder growth.

Gary Gilbertson, a mentor back in college—whose shepherding saved my life–challenged us students to be more discerning in dealing with people’s shortcomings (not to mention our own). Check out the verse below.

“And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:14 ESV

There are three kinds of people who are not running full-steam:
1. the idle
2. the fainthearted
3. the weak

To each one there is a different response:
1. admonition (warning)
2. encouragement
3. help

Imagine warning someone who needs encouragement. You might put out their smoldering wick. Imagine encouraging someone who needs to be warned. You give the impression that idleness is okay.

Man looks on outward appearance, but God looks on the heart. The Lord is the One who searches mind and heart. Man does not have that privilege, or responsibility. Thus, in order to shepherd well, man must lean on the heart of God, case-by-case. True ministry is found in nearness to Him.

I’m concerned for those who are fainthearted and weak. If you are one of these, God wants to help and encourage you. Imagine the Holy God wanting to help you and encourage you in your imperfection. It’s real.

And with the idle included, surprisingly, the Holy Spirit still says, “Be patient with all.”