10 Things I've Learned & I'm Still Learning In Ministry

Pastor, THANK YOU!

TODAY, Beverly and I celebrate 14 years of pastoral ministry at BFWC.  We've been celebrating this season in our lives with a much needed sabbatical.  A time or refreshing, renewing, re-strategizing and rest. :)

For every pastor out there...we send you a big THANK YOU!  No matter where you pastor, what your denomination is, the size of your church or even the preference you have regarding worship styles...THANK YOU for all you're doing for the work of The Lord!

THANK YOU for answering the call, receiving your gift, proclaiming His message and never quitting!

THANK YOU for waking up in the middle of the night to pray for those that the Lord put on your heart...even when they didn't know you were praying for them.

THANK YOU for fighting the good fight of faith and the spiritual warfare you've endured!  Although, you can't talk about all the things you've battled through, attacks on you and your family, feelings of inadequacy, weariness, etc., yet you've persevered forward because of the One who said He would never leave you or forsake you!

THANK YOU for the sacrifices you've made that no one will ever know about...time, personal preferences, money, sleep and your own reputation...you have paid the price that most people will never see this side of eternity, and the Lord IS USING your faithfulness to make a difference!

THANK YOU for not quitting when you thought about it...especially on Mondays! :)  And yet, Jesus gave you the courage to press on because when it's all said and done, you've been filled with the GOSPEL of Jesus and won't be sidetracked!

THANK YOU for not being detoured by criticism and slander by people who have never even talked with you and are clueless in regards to your heart for the Lord.  Misquoted, contextualized, the victim of assumicide and hate filled inaccuracies - yet you persevered...and have resisted the urge to give credence to those who have an opinion about what you do but have never done it themselves.  Thank you for staying on the wall and not coming down.


THANK YOU for the tears you've shed over the families in your church and the condition of people's souls.  For allowing what breaks God's heart to break yours!

THANK YOU for dreaming big, grandiose dreams and refusing to give up on what you know in your heart God has called you to do!


THANK YOU  for the children you've dedicated, funerals you've preached, weddings you've performed, people you've baptized, counseling sessions you've offered, hospital calls you've made, sermons you've prepared, meetings you've administered and the squabbles you've refereed.

No matter what you've had to endure, how much work load you've been under or even the feeling of being under appreciated...THANK YOU...from one pastor to another!  

Regardless of what size church you have, employ ten staff or one, whether you're located in the suburbs, inner-city or in the rural country...THANK YOU!  Whether you're full time in ministry or bi-vocational...THANK YOU!  We're on the same team...and truly, no one can rightly understand a pastor like a fellow pastor.  Others may offer their opinion - but NO ONE can identify with you like SOME ONE who is actually doing what you're doing.

You are not alone!
You matter!  
You are awesome!
Your best days are ahead of you!
You are a champion!

THANK YOU!

Thirteen Years and Counting...

Thirteen years ago today, my family and I headed to Indianapolis to serve as senior pastors of Bethel Family Worship Center.  It's a little surreal when I look back to where we started.   Although Beverly and I had been raised in the ministry as PK's and had served in several ministry positions - serving at BFWC was definitely something new and would prove to be a learning experience right out of the gate for a young 28 year old minister who thought he knew what he was getting himself into. :-)

One day, I hope to write a book and share how those early experiences shaped us and gave us an internal fortitude to persevere. 

If I've done my math right - in the past 13 years I've preached (just at BFWC)...

• 676 Sunday mornings (add another 416 for 8 years of two morning services)
• 520 Sunday evenings
• 676 Wednesday evenings

That's 1,820 opportunities to share the Gospel message!  (Not including the mentorship, teaching, revivals, conferences, etc.)

The further along I go, the less answers I have and the more questions I find myself asking.  At the first of the year, I asked myself, "What if this Sunday was the last opportunity I ever got to preach?"  I had to search deep within to ask, "what would I say?"  Honestly, this has affected the way I preach.  I want to preach like a man ON FIRE - full of passion and I don't ever want to leave the platform full of regret!

This past Sunday morning, Beverly and I met a lady for the first time - she was a guest of one of our families.  She told me that she really loved the service and she also loved being yelled at!  I had to laugh out loud!  Her smile was infectious and she was truly sincere!  Inside my heart, I was thinking...I don't ever want to deliver a "half-baked", "half-hearted", "half-prepared" message.  Every time I have the privilege to stand before people...I want to give 100%!

Another question I could ask myself is "Am I waiting on God to do something for me that He has clearly asked me to do?"  How many times have you heard people say, "I'm just waiting on the Lord?"  Have you ever considered what that sounds like?  It sorta sounds like "I'm so fast that I outran God...and now I am waiting on Him to catch up to me."

Friends, when God has called you...you have to do what He says to do.  God didn't just give Joshua the land...He said "TAKE IT!"  I'm not sitting around waiting on God...He's waiting on me.  For that matter - I have no intentions of sitting idle and watching the world go by.  BFWC - if you think we're going to sit by and let the world pass us up...think again!  We're MOVING FORWARD with our dreams and we're more excited than ever!

Every leader has to make uncomfortable decisions!  It seems that everyone can talk about the problem, see it, discuss it, pray about it and so on...but there are very few people who are usually willing to do something about the problem!  This is what separates the MEN from the BOYS!  Along the journey, we've had to make some tough decisions...those decisions caused some people to be upset, angry and even leave.  Stepping up to do what's right means you will have to embrace the fact that sometimes God will put you in an uncomfortable situation.  But this is REAL LEADERSHIP!

I'm still PASSIONATE about what God is doing!  When I lose my passion for what He's doing I need to resign.  Good leaders are passionate about what God is passionate about.  In other words, you are trying to find out what God's doing and do that...not the other way around.  The truth is...BFWC belongs to Jesus...not me!  I am merely a steward, not an owner.  The church is HIS Bride...not mine.  His agenda must prevail...not mine!

As we move forward...I still need other people!  God didn't call me to do this alone.  I'll will never be able to do everything in our church well!  I learned this years ago and held a deliverance service for myself that I AM NOT SUPER PASTOR!  If I kept doing what I was doing...I would have burned out and never accomplished anything.  Learning to ASK FOR HELP was a struggle at first, but in order to walk in health and produce health in the church I had to learn how to ask others for help!  There are certain things I can do...and there are things I shouldn't attempt to do.  I've found that there will always be people who enjoy helping...if I'll just ask!


Church growth isn't a formula...it's simply doing what God has called you and believing He will bring the increase.  I've talked to lots of pastors and leaders who are interested in seeing their church grow.  Friends, you can extract principles from many areas - there's nothing wrong with that - there's nothing new under the sun.  However, you have to be true to your heart and what God is speaking to you.  The results are up to Him...the work is up to us.  If we'll do the work...He'll give the results.  My job as a pastor is NOT to find the latest, greatest church growth methods...but rather to be completely faithful and obedient to the vision God has poured inside of me.


God didn't call me to perfection.  One thing I've learned is that people can identify more with my mistakes than my successes.  The bottom line is...I'm not JESUS...but I'm pointing people to Him!  BFWC doesn't need me to be their hero...they need to know about JESUS and how, without Him, I would be completely messed up when it comes to living this life!  Leading with integrity is embracing honesty.  I don't get up and tell all my business but I do allow my weaknesses point to Christ's strength!   On the flip side, when you talk about your struggles there will always be people who criticize you.  Remember, those people usually delight in finding fault in others so they don't have to deal with their own mess.  They want you to be perfect...but they are not perfect...which makes them a hypocrite.  Love them through it and just be honest. :-)


Thirteen years and counting...and having a BLAST!

Sometimes It's Heavy But It's Worth It!

The load that many people carry in ministry can be very heavy.  Ministry is tough on every level...period!  I spoke with a pastor not long ago who was ready to quit. He was tired, weary and aggravated with the way things were going in his church.   


Friends, the pain and burden that a pastor has to deal with is unlike any area I've ever experienced.  I worked in the banking industry for eight years and was in their management training program...that pales in comparison to the burden, stress load and weight of serving as a pastor today.


I'm not complaining.  I asked to be here.  I enlisted.  I signed up.  I prayed this through.  However, learning how to navigate through the rigors of personalities, problems, politics, people etc. can sometimes leave you asking, "Did I sign up for this?" (SMILE)


In any given week I may deal with: marriages on the verge of divorce; people who are struggling financially and are at their wits end; parents who are dealing with rebellious kids; infidelity; sickness; death; terminal diagnosis; suicide tendencies; addiction to prescription pills, alcohol; drugs; runaway children; home foreclosures; hunger/no food; homelessness; depression; etc.


I served on staff as a youth pastor for many years as well as a district youth director before becoming a senior pastor...and there isn't a class in the universe that can prepare you for what is coming your way...both good and bad.


It's sometimes difficult to get pastors to open up about their pain or struggle.  Some refuse to for fear of being viewed as weak or unstable.  The very thought of telling their congregation "this job is tough" is petrifying!


I've come to this understanding with myself.  I don't care what other people think about me being transparent and open about my struggles, feelings or pain.  Of course, I don't get up in the pulpit every week and tell all my business...but I do find people of good reputation, of whom I respect highly, to share my burdens with.  I'm OK with being REAL.


Being real comes with a price tag.  You will be complimented and criticized for your willingness to be vulnerable and honest especially amongst your peers.  By the way, BFWC, this isn't necessarily a blog just for you...but it's for all those servants of Christ out there who may be hurting.


There are several areas we could easily address....


1. Loneliness - If you're a staff member at a church...I can identify with you.  I have served other leaders for many years.  If you're not careful, you'll find yourself thinking, "I do just as much as they do, and I don't think they deal with any more junk than I have to deal with."  Friend...that is a WRONG ASSUMPTION based on arrogance.  Trust me when I say that only a pastor can understand the pain of another pastor. (SPOUSES INCLUDED!)


Believe me - your family won't understand the weight of your calling either...especially those who've never been raised in a pastor's preacher's home.  They may have an inkling of the burden you carry but they'll never understand the load, demand, weight or the burden you carry.  You really can't expect them to.  But whatever you do...DO NOT unload on them!  They are not equipped to carry your calling...if so, they'd be carrying it to.  If you make the mistake of unloading on them, you'll be planting a seed in their heart  that can easily manifest as disgruntledness for the church, the pastor you serve or others in the ministry. 


Ministry has been described as lonely.  Pastor...you need another pastor to talk to, to vent with, to pour out your heart to...they can understand you better than anyone else...because they too, have experienced loneliness at your level.


2. Criticism - this just comes with the territory.  Sometimes it's justified and other times it's not...but  the thing most people don't realize is that IT ALWAYS HURTS.  Especially when someone begins by saying, "Now don't take this personally, but..."


People will criticize you for the silliest things...the car you drive, the house you live in, the shoes you wear, how much you sweat, how you preach, your waist line...you name it.  You seem to receive criticism better from the people who know and love you better than the people who feel called to the ministry of interference.  Wounds from a friend can be trusted...but...


Why is it that people who don't even know you think they have some God called ministry to attack you via Facebook, anonymous emails, etc.?  They haven't even had a conversation with you.  By the way...I've said this before and I'll say it again...I HAVE ZERO RESPECT FOR SOMEONE WHO LEAVES A CHURCH VIA EMAIL.  I don't even waste my time responding such immaturity.  If you don't have the decency to look your pastor in the eye...the same pastor who has prayed and fasted for you, spent time shepherding you, counseling you, loving you...etc. - then that speaks volumes about where you are in your faith.  JESUS teaches us better than that.


I've even had people take a portion of my sermon and twist it completely out of context and then have the nerve to misquote me all over town.  LOL Sometimes all you can do is laugh.  


Pastors, you will be misquoted and misrepresented by those who lack the courage to take the time to get to know you...or MAYBE even hit their knees for you if they are so convinced that you are wrong.


Friends, someone who continually attacks you and /or your ministry just isn't normal.  Who has time to go around trying to tear other people down?  Not me!  I refuse to waste my time on them. There are too many people that need me to stay focused on the vision.  Those are the people I'm going to give my time to.


3. Unrealistic Expectations - No matter how hard you try, you'll never be able to get everything right.  You'll forget people's names; forget they were in the hospital; you'll preach too deep for some and too shallow for others;  you'll miss their calls taking other people's calls; your every move will be scrutinized.  Honestly, some people will place expectations on you that they would never be willing to live up to themselves.


This can be the reason that many pastors families fall apart - they cave to the expectations placed on them by selfish, self-seeking church members who expect them to do everything - but never lift a finger to help...and forgetting something that most people never actually stop think about - pastors are human beings with real feelings and a real heart.


Truth is truth...and it doesn't really matter what anyone thinks.  PERIOD.  Church member, staff member, volunteer, etc...PRAY FOR YOUR PASTOR!  Believe me, he/she goes through it.


Let me be VERY CLEAR - I am blessed to serve at BFWC!  God has called me here and He has called me to pastor.  But I'd say what has probably shaped Beverly and I the most is PAIN.  Pain is not avoidable as a pastor - it's real.  Anytime I fall into thinking that my life should somehow be easy all I have to do is read 2 Corinthians 11:22-29.


I love what I do!  I love what God has called me to do!  There is nothing I'd rather be doing!  BUT...with the calling comes a cross to carry.  BUT IT IS WORTH IT!

• It is worth it to be faithful.
• It is worth it when we see people come to Christ.
• It is worth it when we see marriages restored.
• It is worth it when we see the excluded included.
• It is worth it when we see people receive hope!
• It is worth it when we see addicts set free!
• It is SO WORTH IT!

Jesus didn't quit and neither should we!  He has given us this assignment!  Pain may be part of the process but it can shape us to be more effective for His glory!

Who Said Pastoring Would Be Easy?

I really had no idea what kind of life I would have when my father and mother began to pastor a church in the early 80's.  There were a lot of adjustments along the way that included trial and error.  In 1999, Beverly and I followed our heart to Indianapolis to serve as Lead Pastors.  We're thankful to be here and believe the Lord's hand sovereignly guided us. 


Looking back I wonder why there wasn't a class offered to new pastors that dealt with inevitible experiences new pastors would encounter.  Unfortunately, there were some serious situations we would encounter early on that would either make us or break us.


When we came to BFWC I thought everyone would be happy to see us and they would jump on board with the dream.  (Ok...go ahead and laugh...get it out of your system...SMILE)  Even though we were both preacher's kids and grew up in pastor's homes...that still didn't prepare us for the SPIRITUAL BATTLE we would encounter.


Did I miss this "spiritual warfare" class?  I guess I was shielded from the fact that as I grew as a leader, Christian and a pastor, I would become a bigger target for the enemy.  Even as a youth pastor, I didn't take into account the full weight of ministry that my senior pastor had on his shoulders.


It's easy to dream about being the senior pastor of your own church when you're serving with someone else who is carrying the full load and shielding you from the real heat of the battle. Transitioning from an associate role to a Lead Pastor role was definitely an EYE OPENER.


I think the big issue is LACK OF PREPARATION.  Don't get me wrong, there are certain things you will definitely learn from your leader but at the end of the day you're still going to have to learn some things through your own trial and error.  The good news is...if you pay attention to your leader's instruction and remain teachable no matter where you are...you'll navigate through those difficult challenges with TWICE THE WISDOM.


Thank God today for the men whose feet I sat at.  Their insight and example prepared me for my present and future assignment(s).  I am so thankful for a Father/Son relationship.  Learning how to handle my self with grace while faced with serious issues in the church comes from the example of my leaders whose shoulders I'm privileged to stand on.


Beverly and I look back to those early years when we came to BFWC and wonder "How did we make it"?  There were attitudes, personalities, problems, spirits, etc...that all had to be filtered through with finesse and grace.  We had prayed about this role for a few years and anticipated the good and the bad.  It was in the years of preparation that the Lord was actually testing our sanctification in Him.  That process included lots of waiting, learning, growing and trusting Him.  Then and only then...did God SET US UP to lead this great church in Indianapolis.


After twelve years, (now 24) I feel as if we have not only received ministerial training but also ten degree's worth of knowledge and experience. (Smile)  

Here are a few lessons I'm still learning...

1. Love your peers.  Pray for your pastoral team, elders, deacons, ministry coaches and dream team volunteers.  The people you work with every day are the people you want to make yourself available to as much as possible.  They are just as important as members of the congregation. 


2. Expect to be misunderstood.  Not everyone will receive your ministry.  In general, you will be loved, celebrated and appreciated.  Your gifts, personality and style of leadership will be a welcomed by most people.  However, there will still be some who will respond negatively, some with petty reasons.  Some, including leaders, will leave.  You cannot control that, but you can shepherd through it.  If you will keep your door open to those who are struggling with your leadership, you're more likely to reach a good resolve.  Those who don't want to meet with you are beyond your responsibility.  Remain open to advice, input and counsel.  Determine to grow as a godly pastor and be faithful to the WORD of GOD.  Life is different as a Lead Pastor than an Associate Pastor - you are now the target of stronger opinions, reactions, criticism and rejection.


3. Your role will afford you new friendships.  Even though God uses you to meet people's needs...remember...you are not JESUS.  Pastors should do their job well but not become a crutch for their congregation.  Believe me...there are better preachers than you and stronger pastors too.  Be open to receive positive feedback from your congregation...some of that will include notes, invitations for meals, etc.  Your people will seek you out for leadership.  DO NOT LET THAT GO TO YOUR HEAD.  Keep the cross always before you!  Cling to it!  Believe me, there will be days when you'll feel like you've been punched in the stomach with criticism or news of another family leaving the church.  If you keep the cross before you...you'll have a healthy perspective of who you are in Christ.  Defer all the glory to HIM!


4. Be kind and speak well of everyone you have previously served with.  Believe me, you'll end up eating crow for all the critical, quickly arrived at, ungracious feelings and words you had toward the upper leadership in your previous church.  If we're not careful, we'll end up griping about how we think the elders and senior pastor are missing it.  Like children, we end up seconding guessing mom and dad...until, you become one.  Once you step into that role as senior pastor you'll soon realize that leading a church is not as easy as you thought...teamwork, meetings, unity, spiritual growth in the congregation, balancing family and ministry, sermon preparation, leadership, administration and personal shepherding.  The responsibility is quite demanding and sometimes exhausting.  You WILL struggle with regret at some of the ways you reacted to the "upper management" back at the old place.  Want some advice?  Receive the wisdom from your leaders while you're serving with them.  Be a BLESSING to your leaders and fellow laborers, especially those who are over you in the Lord.


5. It may get bumpy.  I'll never forget the words of Sister Burke, our previous national Indian Missions Director, who said, "It's not all fried chicken."  You will have your "ups" and "downs."  You will suffer persecution and a bulls eye will be placed on your head.  However, stepping up to fulfill your calling is an OPPORTUNITY for God to show Himself strong in the Kingdom.  Think about...you get to preach the Gospel! You get to proclaim the name of Jesus! You get to lead a church forward out of the ash heap of deadness into life!   The devil doesn't like you or the work you're doing.  You are now threatening his dominion and believe me...he'll attack you!  Every leader whose ever done anything GREAT for God has had to deal with the bumpy road.  Satan does not give up ground easily, whether within the church or territory your church is about to take for Christ's name.  YOU MUST PREPARE yourself by expecting the attack, asking for prayer, holding fast to God's grace and aligning yourself with some GODLY elders around you who will FIGHT with prayer, accountability and common strength!


6. Understand that loneliness is part of leadership.  As you lead, you'll be put in a position that may put you at arm's length with those you lead.  It's alright to have friends and it's alright to let people in.  However, you must still remember that you are their leader.  If you lose your ability to lead because of too much familiarity...well, then you've shot yourself in the toe.  Don't be reluctant to have friends...but always remember who you are.  You're not above anyone...but you are held to a high standard so that your testimony will lead people UP not DOWN.  Trust God to provide you with friendships.  He will give them to you AS YOU ARE ABLE TO HANDLE THEM.


7. Position your family for this change.  Like it or not, your spouse and children will be exposed to the ministry as much as you.  They will share in your calling...even if they don't want to.  It's quite acceptable to ask them how they feel about being involved in the ministry.  If you are mindful of their feelings then you'll more than likely have greater longevity through the rigors of ministry life.  Seek out other leaders who can relate to your spouse and children.  Their influence and friendship will help you through the rough times.  Remember, your ministry belongs to your family as well.


If you are a pastor reading this...my friend...don't give up!  God has long range plans for you!  Like the energizer bunny...keep GOING and GOING and GOING and GOING and GOING!

10 Things I've Learned About Pastoring

I truly enjoy my assignment.  Beverly and I have been pastoring for 12 years and I believe we have some of the finest people in the world!  We both grew up in a pastor's home - which has afforded us experience and understanding to the ministry.  Regardless of how much formal training you receive in the ministry, there is nothing that can take the place of experience.

If you're a new pastor or have just stepped up to serve in ministry in any capacity - allow me to humbly share a few things I've learned along the way.

1. Learn how to relax in your own skin.  God called you to be who you are and not someone else.  Resist the urge to compare yourself to other pastors or leaders.
2. It takes time to feel like you're actually "pastoring" the church.  People may call you pastor, out of respect for your office, but there will come a definite moment when you'll feel like you're actually pastoring the church.  Don't rush this...it will happen naturally.  Some people will only trust you after a really long time of proving yourself, and another group will never trust you no matter what you do.
3. You'll only have as much spiritual authority as you're willing to submit yourself to. 
   Submission brings freedom and promotion.  Independence is a train wreck waiting to happen.  You cannot ask your people to submit to your leadership if you are unwilling to submit to those over you.  A good soldier can take orders from any commander.
4. Wolves aren't the only ones who bite.  Sheep bite too.  Although their bite don't kill...the gnawing can make life miserable sometimes.  Don't let your emotions get the best of you.  Walk out in front of your flock...pushing from behind will frustrate you and exhaust your energy.  Expect to be bitten. Stay focused on your vision and do not exhaust your efforts trying to put out fires and giving ear to murmuring.
5. The life of a minister can be lonely at times.  If you are called to lead people, you cannot be their best friend too.  God will give you strength during the lonely times and send you relational encouragement.  Cherish the friends God gives you and nourish those relationships.
6. Don't make hasty decisions on Monday mornings.  Sometimes your brain will feel like oatmeal after a weekend of ministry.  You'll be tempted to double guess your message, leadership and capability.  The good news is...Monday will pass!
7. Keep on preaching the truth regardless of how many people get upset at you.  You're called to proclaim the Word - not necessarily to defend or debate it.  Preach with passion and leave the results to God.
8. Take a vacation.  You're not superman.  You'll be no good to your family or church if you're beat down.  Schedule a day during the week when you can unwind, get out of the office and avoid dealing with church issues if at all possible.  Sitting on the couch and watching a movie with your family can do you a world of good!
9. Make wise hiring choices.When looking for potential staff members, loyalty & integrity are the most important characteristics.  You will also want to consider people who have a great work ethic and who ask "why not?" instead of "why?"
10. Celebrate the victories.After you've completed a big assignment CELEBRATE.  Giving everyone an ice cream cone is a fun way to say "thank you!"  Send thank you cards or appreciation to your key leaders and try to take a breather before the next big event.

12 Years Ago Today

Twelve years ago today, Beverly, Kaitlyn and I came to Indianapolis to serve as Pastors at Bethel Family Worship Center.

I remember having a conversation with the Lord prior to coming to Indianapolis that sounded something like this..."Lord, I'll do one of three things...1) Start a work from scratch 2) Serve another pastor with a large vision 3) pastor an existing work." 

As if, God is Monty Hall and this is
"let's make a deal!"

I've learned, you don't give God a list of things you WILL do and you WON'T do.  He knows the desires of your heart but He is GOD and He is sovereign enough to keep your feet on the path that leads towards your destiny.

If God has "called you" to pastor a church then He will keep you where He planted you if you're willing to go the distance.

If God is going to do  a work THROUGH you,
He'll have to do a work IN you.

In my humble opinion, churches that exhibit a pattern of growth are pastored by men and women who are committed to longevity. 

Our ministries will either be characterized by a
"WEED MINISTRY" or an "OAK TREE" ministry. 

Weeds shoot up over night and see fast results.  However, they don't have much root and are easily plucked up.  On the other hand, oak trees take a long time to reach maturity.  It's roots run deep and if you look at it's insides you'll see "RINGS" which are actually layers of bark that were added during each season of growth.

Long term pastors will have to pass several tests:

Money Test

I have learned over the years that I must depend on God way more than I depend on people.  God has always been the biggest giver in our church.  We've all heard the cliche "If it's God's will than it's God's bill."   

You can't preach to make people happy.  If you try to design your messages so they don't offend your "big givers" than you're actually "selling" God out.  If your desire is to keep the "big givers" happy than you're no longer leading...you're being led.  My vision is not for sale.

Scrutiny Test

Not everyone will celebrate your vision.  Ask Joseph.  Ask Nehemiah.  In fact, Nehemiah had to deal with people who lied about him and spread rumors about his leadership. 

"Look at Nehemiah, he's trying to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem so that he can make a name for himself."  Of course, Nehemiah's friends came to him and said, "Nehemiah, you'd better come down off the wall and put out these fires of gossip...they're talking about you down here."  Nehemiah simply responded..."I'm not coming down off the wall to put their fires of gossip out...they'll light them faster than I can put them out...I'm STAYING ON THE WALL and doing a work for God!"

Some people "hate ya, cause they ain't ya!"

Your vision will be scrutinized, criticized and ostracized.  What are you going to do???? GIVE UP????  NO SIR!!!!  If God called you...then God will keep you! 

DO NOT let those who have never actually done anything for God define what they believe you can or can't do in His name!

Belief Test

You have to keep believing no matter what the circumstances look like.  God is the one that called you. 

I remember facing serious challenges early on.  Good people can do some not so good things when they lack teaching and understanding of biblical protocol.

During a particular hard time I remember praying, "God I don't need this headache!  I don't need to put my family through this!  This is nothing but JUNK!  God, I just want to do what You called me to do, but perhaps I should do it somewhere else, these people are obviously not embracing the vision You gave me and it's clear to me that they just want to fight one another and me too."  God specifically told me, "I didn't call you here, to leave tomorrow."

If God has called you ... and I mean GOD....not daddy, mommy or bad pizza you ate before you went to bed which caused you to dream...then HE WILL KEEP YOU THROUGH IT if you simply BELIEVE!  (There is a fine line between faith and stupidity)

After 12 years, I've found that the further I go the more faith it takes to keep going! 

SOLD OUT Test

Not everyone that starts with you will stay with you.  There is a difference between people that LIKE you and people who are committed to the vision of the church.  You will not be able to please everyone and still pastor.  Your sermon choices will make some people mad.  Your leadership will draw unwelcomed opposition.  But those who feel called to the vision of the HOUSE will stay with you because they see the vision as their own.

You will have to ask your people to SELL OUT!  Don't be afraid to ask for commitment!  Ask your people to DO what you're willing to do!  I've found that people actually want to be held accountable and pushed towards commitment.  The more you expect from them the more they will rise to meet the expectation.

It is not my job to do all the ministry of the church.  Rather, it is my job to equip the church to the work of the ministry.

Pastor...if you do all the ministry...then you're people will let you do it.  Unfortunately, some pastors feel that they have to maintain the role of "SUPER PASTOR" because they may have an insecurity issue and need to feel needed or because the culture of their particular church dictates that the pastor does everything.

But, if you do it all...then you're people will cling to a climate of "having their needs met" rather than being a vessel that is USED UP for the Lord!  Believe me, you don't want to have a church full of people who just want their needs to be met!  You want a church full of people who want to meet the needs of others!

Ask your people to STEP UP!  Jesus wasn't afraid to ask for people to sell out!  (John 6)  He did lose some, but the ones who stayed with Him were able to see more happen and accomplish more than they could have dreamed!

Perspective Test

Keep the main thing the main thing! 

• "Pastor, I feel we should do this." 
• "Pastor, I feel you should do this."
• "Pastor, I feel we need to start a ___________________ ministry."
• "Pastor, I feel we're not doing a good job meeting this ______________ need."
• "Pastor, when are we going to do ________________?"

There are lots of things you could do.  But I don't think you should do EVERYTHING that people bring to you.  Sure, it may be a good idea...but it may not line up with the vision God has called you to.  Remember, everything has a season.  It may be a good idea but the timing is off to implement it now.  If it be of God, hold it, it will still be God later when you have a peace about birthing it or releasing it.

The last thing I need to do is fill my calendar with MORE ACTIVITIES and PROGRAMS.  They can be good but they can also BOG you down and slow your vision.  I'm more concerned about the spiritual health of our people than their busy ministry schedule.  You can get out of balance in this area if you're not careful.

Keep it all in perspective!  Know what God has called you to do BEFORE you do it.  This will free you up from over committing to things that will actually slow you down.  Don't get hijacked by people, programs or productivity

Bethel Family Worship Center .... I love you!  Serving you this past 12 years has been a great privilege!  I've grown and I'm still growing. 

• Thank you for allowing me the freedom to be creative and experiment with new ideas! 
• Thank you for loving me unconditionally. 
• Thank you for overlooking my faults and mistakes! 
• Thank you for embracing my family and treating us like your own family!
• Thank you for taking such good care of us!
• Thank you for honoring us on our birthday's & anniversaries!
• Thank you for praying for us!
• Thank you for being faithful & fruitful!
• Thank you for being real!
• Thank you for committing to the vision!
• Thank you for striving for excellence!
• Thank you for being loyal!
• Thank you for your enthusiasm!
• Thank you for your friendship!
• Thank you for your sense of humor!
• Thank you for loving your church and community!
• Thank you for committing to discipleship!
• Thank you for the wonderful ways in which you SERVE!
• Thank you for living a Godly lifestyle!
• Thank you for loving each other!
• Thank you for the cards, emails, texts, etc., that constantly keep me encouraged!

I also want to express my love to Beverly & Kaitlyn!  I couldn't do what I'm doing without you!  You shoulder the load of our calling with strength, courage and passion.  I'm a better man, husband, father and Christian because of you. 

Most of all...THANK YOU JESUS!  You saved me, called me, equipped me and will sustain me!

What Is Best For The Church?

I never dreamed I'd have the privilege to pastor such a great church!  When Beverly, Kaitlyn and I came to Indianapolis 12 years ago (May 11, 1999) we had high hopes and a burning fervor in our heart to run after God's design and desire for our lives.  The dream is still alive in us and the journey still fires me up!!!

We are also blessed to serve with an incredible team!  Last night we honored Darrell & Sue Vincent, our JOY Coordinators...(Just Older Youth 60+) for their stellar volunteerism! 

Darrell & Sue serve as a model of excellence when it comes to servant-leadership. 

They arrive early, stay late, help out, sweep floors, take out the trash, stand in the gap, pray for the sick, encourage their pastors, send cards of encouragement, greet guests, cook meals, minister to others, support the church with their finances, communicate routinely, deliver bread...and they do it all with a smile and you never have to wonder if they're going to be at church. 

For all you pastors reading this, you know full well how valuable a "Darrell & Sue" are to you at your church also.  People like that...REFRESH their pastors!

Can you imagine a church full of people like Darrell & Sue? 

I talk with pastors and leaders all the time who express how refreshing it is to have quality staff and volunteers on their team. 

Apostle Paul was particularly fond of Onesiphorus (2 Timothy 1:16-18) whose name means "bringing profit."  Onesiphorus sought out Paul while he was in prison in Rome.  He offered him hospitality, kindness and courage. 

Can you imagine a church full of Onesiphorus's?

If you're going to last in ministry, working with a team is essential.  Each team member will be different and will bring to the table their unique gifts, talents and personalities.  Diversity can add flavor to your team but there are some things that should be a staple amongst all team members.

Each member of the team should SPEAK the SAME LANGUAGE as their LEADER and the VISION of the HOUSE. 

You should NEVER hear the following said from a member of your staff/team:

"That's Not My Job!"

• If you ask a member of your team to do something and they reply "That's not my job," then rest assured that they do not have a heart that is fully devoted to the ministry.  Your team should walk around with FIRE in their eyes and when they are asked to do something they just make it happen because they are there to SERVE and their answer should always be yes!

"That Can't Be Done!"

• Sometimes the people who make that statement realize how much work will be required to finish the task, so they just say it can't be done.
• I don't want to hear it can't be done.  I want to hear someone come up with a solution of how it can be done and their recommendations as it pertains to cost, time and so forth.  That's the attitude I'm looking for.
• If someone is constantly saying, "It can't be done" they either have a LAZY work ethic or a very small view of who GOD is.  Neither are beneficial for your team.

"I Need More Money & Staff To Make This Happen!"

• If someone is using resources as an excuse for a stale or declining ministry then you can be sure they are in trouble and have more than likely become spoiled not having to be routinely creative.

"I Want Recognition!"

• You have to watch out for the team member who is always telling you how much work they do, how many hours they put in and how tired they are.
• We have to balance ministry with family and everyday life.  But when someone is always demanding attention for the work they've done then you can be sure that either PRIDE or INSECURITY is coming out...and neither are good.

"My ministry needs ________ to...and if we don't get it then..."

• When a staff/team member begins to focus on his/her ministry more than the church as a whole...then there is a HUGE problem.
• A good staff/team member will have passion and vision for their particular area of ministry; however, they have an even greater passion for the CHURCH as a WHOLE and will gladly lay aside their plans if it means that it is BEST FOR THE CHURCH.
• The church will either be a loosely organized group of sub-ministries or ONE BODY with many parts...and if a staff/team member cannot be a part of the BODY then they most likely do not have a KINGDOM MINDSET and will not fit on your team.

Serving in ministry will cost you something! 

There are many people who say they want to be in ministry today but when push comes to shove and the rubber meets the road, they quickly look for the path of least resistance.  Friends, the Lord's work is demanding but is also very REWARDING not only here but in the hereafter.

Determine to give your best! 

Serve WHEREVER, WHENEVER and HOWEVER you're asked to, with a good attitude, humble spirit and a blazing fervor.....and then you'll do what's BEST FOR THE CHURCH. :-)

The Shopping Spirit

We live in a day of church consumerism. Consumerism is a term we’re all familiar with because we deal with it on a daily basis. It shapes how we purchase, how we relate and how we shape our identities.

Consumerism can even effect our spirituality. Basically, it creates an exchange where we expect instant returns for our investments.

In my studies and personal experience of why people leave a church after spending years volunteering their time, I’ve discovered that the themes that stand out the most to me are:

• They feel ripped off.
• That they have given and gotten nothing back.
• They view discipleship not as self-sacrificing service but rather a consumer exchange, in which instant gratification is sought.

In those conversations, It seemed to me that they were happy to follow Christ as long as He delivered a kind of consumerist heaven on earth. However, when this kind of heaven did not arrive, they became disillusioned. Of course, the advertising industry did not get the blame, God did, and active faith was thrown out the window.

When we follow God because we are expecting a kind of consumer pay off; we have invested in a faith that cannot last, you can only church shop for so long. When we worship a God who we believe will make our dreams come true we are not following the God of the Bible. Believers who live out their faith through the pattern of consumerism will end up almost definitely outside of the church and very disappointed.

I’ve been in the church all of my life. I was raised in a pastor’s home and have been surround by ministry all my life. One thing that I specifically remember about my parents is the amount of time they invested in the church. They would clean the church, shovel the snow, mow the yard, pray for our pastors, teach classes, drive buses, attend meetings, support leadership, give financially, participate in activities, attend every service possible, serve wherever needed – day or night, and make meals. There were many times that my dad would be called out at night to pray for the sick or visit someone at the request of our pastor. He did all of that and he worked a full time job in the factory.

They did all of it without complaining or asking for anything in return. In our home, there wasn’t an expectation of “receiving something” for our service unto the Lord. I never heard my parents say anything about “being owed” something. They viewed their service as UNTO the Lord. Of course, they served their leaders as they served the Lord and for that service I believe the Lord honored and blessed them for their commitment. In fact, I believe I’m serving where I am today because of my parent’s “serving” anointing.

None of us will ever be able to lead our “own” ministry if we cannot first serve in someone else’s…and for that matter...serve with integrity, honor, character and distinction. Knowing this has kept my feet on the narrow path and my heart content to be happy where I am and serve wherever and whenever for however long.

Who are you going to follow? Are you going to follow someone with a proven track record or someone who’s character is questionable and motives uncertain? Your advice is only as good as your advisor. Who you follow will determine where you end up.

How are you going to follow? How you follow will determine what you get. How you see your leader will determine what you receive from your leader. How you perceive is how you receive. In my own life, If I’ve wanted something from my pastor/leader (not in a greedy way) I made myself available to them and became their shadow. It’s the squeaky wheel that get’s the oil. You have to position yourself to receive from your leader.  If you're a "no show" or following from a distance than your leader will not be able to lean on you when they're tired, frustrated or need encouragement.

How long will you follow? If you view your place of service as a “stepping stone” till something better comes along or until you are the one who is eventually calling the shots…then you’ll never fully learn what you need to learn where you’re at because your mind will be somewhere else instead of focused on your God given assignment.

Elisha served Elijah for ten years – and would have continued doing that no matter what…until Elijah told Elisha that he was leaving and was going to entrust him with his anointing to fill his shoes. Elisha was hungry to receive everything he could from his leader but he was content to stay where he was planted…for “there” was where his anointing accumulated.

One thing I admire about Elisha is that he didn’t TAKE ministry…he INHERITED it.

Elisha was content where he was until his leader called him out and sent him forth. Another thing I like about Elisha is that he didn’t start getting goofy by withdrawing from his leader or getting himself in a bunch of mess. Had he done that…how on earth would Elijah have been able to promote him? The bottom line is…learn what you need to learn and do it over and over and over and over without losing your testimony in the process. THEN…you’ll be blessed and sent forth.

Ask yourself this:

1. Do I have a servant’s heart?
2. Am I willing and able to stand the test of time?
3. Am I committed to the development process that will be required of me?
4. Are my priorities in alignment to the Lord’s authority over me?
5. Am I faithful and fruitful where I’m presently serving?
6. How close am I following my leaders? (Near or far?)
7. Will I follow to the end? (When the dust settles, will I still be there?)

Pastor...don't give up!

Navigating a church through the rigorous terrain of today's cultural climate can be challenging to say the least.  It seems I'm constantly on the phone with pastor's and church leaders exchanging ideas and sharing principles.

Sometimes I sense that the conversation doesn't end on a high note because I wasn't able to share a "magic formula" or a three step infallible program.

In my humble opinion...if you're going to build a church, impact a community and raise up leaders...IT'S GOING TO TAKE WORK!

More and more pastors are quitting the ministry at an unprecedented rate.  According to H.B. London in his book, Pastors At Greater Risk, he states that  "Members of the clergy now suffer from obesity, hypertension and depression at rates higher than most Americans. In the last decade, their use of antidepressants has risen, while their life expectancy has fallen. Many would change jobs if they could."

• 13% of active pastors are divorced.
• Those in ministry are equally likely to have their marriage end in divorce as general church members.
• The clergy has the second highest divorce rate among all professions.
• 23% have been fired or pressured to resign at least once in their careers.
• 25% don't know where to turn when they have a family or personal conflict or issue.
• 25% of pastors' wives see their husband's work schedule as a source of conflict.
• 33% felt burned out within their first five years of ministry.
• 33% say that being in ministry is an outright hazard to their family.

I've asked myself the question, "Why am I doing this?"  In all honesty, and I hope those of you reading this will allow me to be human, sometimes I've thought about dropping the whole "kit and caboodle" in someone else's lap and saying, "ENJOY!"

• When you think about the overwhelming demands of ministry today...
• The fickleness of personalities...
• The unnecessary junk you go through...
• The refereeing of needless squabbles...
• The media's downplay of the church...
• The constant personal attacks...
• The immaturity of people who "should" know better by now but won't do better...
• The traveling mindset of folks you have continually helped over and over who jump ship thinking a new environment will cure what ails them...truth is if they can't be stable here...they won't be stable there.
• The spirit of consumerism amongst casual Christians who are just looking for a place to attend without any accountability concerning their discipleship, attendance or lifestyle.
• The lost art of loyalty...
• The lack of ministerial etiquette...
• The lack of protocol coupled with a "don't tell me what to do" attitude...
• Broken promises and covenants...
• Health issues...

Those things alone are enough to keep you distracted from your vision and make you want to run towards Elijah's cave & juniper tree.

But the reason I haven't quit is because I know that God has called me to do what I'm doing and He's given me a special GRACE to do it.  Without His grace and His assurance...I would have yielded to the flesh long ago.

Ministry today TAKES WORK!
EFFECTIVE ministry requires longevity!
Ministry requires THICK SKIN and a "made up" mind.

Ministry takes EFFORT!  It takes prayer, planning and preparation...and either you will do it or you won't.  It really is that simple.

Pastors...you'll never be able to please EVERYONE.  Don't you dare think about quitting today!  It is WORTH it!

I'm not saying this because I'm just looking for a Comforting Christian Cliché to encourage you with.  I'm speaking this from experience!  There are days when I feel like I can conquer the world...and then there are others where I feel the world has conquered me.

I've been there!

• You feel like your sermon stunk...
• A member of your team bails on you or does something crazy...
• You can't sleep at night cause you're bombarded with decisions and concerns...
• People lie about you (or tell half truths, same thing really!)...
• The critics take shots at you...
• Increased spiritual warfare...
• You wrestle with your own inadequacies...
• Only a few people understand the levels of loneliness you experience...
• Etc...

In the past 12 years as pastor of BFWC I've experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows.  I've asked the question, "Is it really worth all of this?"

And I hear a "YES" in my spirit!  Pastor...if God CALLED you...He will SUSTAIN you!  He is with you and will never leave you!  HE IS WORTH IT!

I've had rough days, weeks & months!  And yet, God always gives me what I need JUST when I need it.  Perhaps you're reading this today and you feel overwhelmed...let me remind you that FOLLOWING JESUS is worth it!  Yes, there is a price to pay in ministry...but it is NOWHERE near the price He paid for us!

Last Sunday night when we were on the streets of Indianapolis serving, we connected with over 2000 people in one hour!  Eight people prayed to receive Christ and we ministered Christ's love in an impactful way.  During the praise rally following, I was thinking to myself, "I am SO GLAD that I haven't quit or given up on the vision God gave me in 1999 when I came to BFWC...following Him has not been easy, but is SO worth it!"

Pastor, God did not call you so that you would have to run around like a chicken with your head cut off trying to PROVE yourself to Him or anyone else for that matter.  He called you to PROVE His Son to the world!  Just be yourself and be true to the freedoms He has given you!  Heaven is cheering you on!

It's worth it!  Don't give up!  Stay in the game!  Focus on Jesus!  Keep your vision before you!  Listen to His voice and not the naysayers!

God has not given up on you!

Pastor...

• I pray this weekend will be INCREDIBLE for you! 
• I pray you'll PREACH YOUR GUTS OUT!  
• I pray you'll see RESULTS! 
• I pray you'll IMPACT your community! 
• I pray you'll get your SECOND wind!
• PREACH PREACHER!

Your Committed Pastor

Dear BFWC Family,

From time to time I’m asked “how do you stay so committed to Christ?” Honestly, I’ve never lost my fire for God…however, at times the flame has flickered due to stress, pressure, problems, people, personalities and just plain junk (that is energy zapping)!

But I guess what keeps me going is knowing the Lord’s hand pulled me out of the pit of sin and kept me from losing my mind when I could have been very easily overcome by the enemies attack against me while in my youth.

• Hell didn’t want me to answer the call of the Lord.
• Hell didn’t want me to live in peace and sanity.
• Hell tried to stop me from falling in love with Jesus.
• Hell tried to kill me off before I ever got started.

• I didn’t ask to be born into the home of a preacher.
• I didn’t ask to be raised in church.
• I didn’t ask to go to church almost every night of the week.
• I didn’t ask to be raised so strict.

But I’m so glad I was!

• God has kept my mind and He’s kept my soul!
• He found me when I was 8 years old and I surrendered my life to Him!
• At age 15 He called me to the ministry.
• At age 16 He filled me with the Holy Ghost and fire!
• TODAY…I’m still running after HIM with my whole heart.

• I can’t get enough of Jesus! He’s my all in all. He’s my everything.
• I’ve seen too much to lose out with God at this point.
• I’ve got nothing to go back to.
• I’ve killed my oxen and burned up my plow share. (Elisha)

• Drugs won’t satisfy me.
• Liquor won’t satisfy me.
• Promiscuity won’t satisfy me.
• Worldly pleasures won’t satisfy me.

• I’m committed to raising my daughter to be passionate about God and His work!
• I’m committed to my marriage and my wonderful wife!
• I’m committed to Church that Jesus gave His life for.
• I’m committed to seeing people born again and live SANCTIFIED lives that are God honoring.
• I’m committed to making a generational impact.
• I’m committed to birth sons.
• I’m committed to discipleship.
• I’m committed to growing the Kingdom of God here in Indianapolis.
• I’m committed to raising & training leaders.
• I’m committed to staying SAVED!
• I’m committed to doing the right thing even if the right thing isn’t happening to me.
• I’m committed to walking in integrity.
• I’m committed to living peaceably with all men.
• I’m committed to letting my good not to be evil spoken of.
• I’m committed to being faithful and fruitful.
• I’m committed to honoring my leaders.
• I’m committed to keeping my testimony in tact till Jesus returns or I die.
• I’m committed to loving God and His people.
• I’m committed to treating people the way I would like to be treated.
• I’m committed to repenting quickly and asking forgiveness when necessary.
• I’m committed to walk humbly and not think more of myself than I should.
• I’m committed to manifestation without weirdness.
• I’m committed to punctuality.
• I’m committed to increase with integrity.
• I’m committed to balance.
• I’m committed to applauding that which is good and abstaining from that which is rotten.
• I’m committed to eating better.
• I’m committed to laugh more and stress less.
• I’m committed to enjoy each moment of life.
• I’m committed to keep my heart free from bitterness and hardness.
• I’m committed to Shepherding God’s people.
• I’m committed to looking for ways to improve myself and the tasks I’m responsible for.
• I’m committed to keep my vows and covenants.
• I’m committed to serve my leaders.
• I’m committed to take care of the material possessions God has blessed me with.
• I’m committed to use all my talents for God’s glory and not for my gain.
• I’m committed to give sacrificially and often when called upon.
• I’m committed to not being moody and making everyone around me miserable.
• I’m committed to being stable and solid in my walk with God and my testimony with others.
• I’m committed to show up on time and perform my best.
• I’m committed to love people.
• I’m committed to believe the best in people.

All I can say is….BUT GOD!

Had the Lord not kept me…I would probably be somewhere out of my mind right now. BUT GOD! He kept me!

• Who am I to think that I’ve got it all figured out?
• Who am I to think I can come and go with God at my will?

I am dust.

• God is so good to me.
• I love Him today!
• I love my wife and daughter!
• I love my family!
• I love the church I am allowed to shepherd! (BFWC – you are my beloved family!)
• I love our staff!
• I love our leaders!
• I love our city!
• I love my fathers!

I haven’t lost my passion! My passion has increased since I’ve come to Jesus!

I believe every Sunday & Wednesday is going to be “The Super Bowl!” Let’s do this!