As Pastor Jordon Willard points out in his message to us today, developing leaders is crucial. I see excellent examples of that and poor examples of it as I travel. When I see no young people in Church, or no attempt to have children’s Sunday school, no feeder program for God, I get very sad.
A Pastor must have an accountability group. Failure is having YES people around you. A Pastor needs to have people around him that he can come to when he is in need of help. I have that, in my wife Sharon, who challenges me more than anyone! That is awesome! A man needs that! Vice Chairman of FGGAM Bill Ruhl, Board members Wanell Pate, Sonia Haylet, and Chuck Akeley are all wonderful folks. We turn 12 years young in August. The FGGAM board is one of the main reasons we are still here. They all, in their own way, have helped me grow so much in our Lord. I have learned from them all. I think of them everyday, I know I have them with me as we go forth for Jesus. This group comes at issues from different angels at times, which is good. The board is full of the wisdom of God. We are together in our mission for Jesus! When God calls me home, or God says no more Dewey, I have been praying that Chuck Akeley will take my spot. This is what God has shown me.
Baptist Press
By Jordon Willard, posted July 17, 2024
This month marks 13 years in pastoral ministry for me. What a joy and challenge it’s been to shepherd Christ’s flock.
Here are 13 lessons God has taught me during these years (in no particular order of importance):
1. The church doesn’t belong to me, but to Jesus. He died for it, is building it and will not let the gates of hell prevail against it. The Head of the church doesn’t need me, but chooses to include me in shepherding His church. There’s hardly a more mind-blowing reality.
2. God’s Word does the work. As it is faithfully taught and preached, the Spirit of God saves sinners, sanctifies the saints and sends us into the world to live on mission for Him. It’s remarkable to see this week after week. I would never stand behind a pulpit if I weren’t utterly convinced of this truth.
3. No one is more important to me in my church than my wife and children. Church members come and go. But family is for life. Prioritize accordingly.
4. The years I spent studying Greek and Hebrew in college and seminary have proven utterly invaluable. Knowing Greek and Hebrew won’t unlock everything in the Bible, but it’ll unlock a lot. Aspiring pastor, if at all possible, study the biblical languages now before entering pastoral ministry.
5. Having seasoned mentors to walk you through challenging seasons is crucial.
