Don’t Miss Out: Controversies in Pennsylvania: Church Attendance, Prison Labor, and Racial Justice! Plus, much more…

by Clarence E. Stowers | Apr 30, 2023 | Church Issues, Current Affairs

Curated Collection of Cutting-edge Content

Fascinating Articles I Read Last Week

10 Reasons Church Attendance Is Declining (Even for Committed Christians)

Carey Nieuwhof, a former pastor, provides personal and professional development resources, including productivity, leadership, personal growth, communication, church growth, and change management.

His article addresses the declining trend of church attendance among committed Christians due to shifting cultural values, busier schedules, and scandal-plagued institutions.

Online church is a trend that is here to stay, and the cultural disappearance of guilt is another reason church attendance is declining. People look less to churches and leaders to help them grow spiritually and more to other options.

The article suggests that change is unkind to the unprepared and advises church leaders to prepare for change by focusing on the needs of their congregants, staying relevant, and embracing technology.

In contrast to the issue of declining church attendance among committed Christians, Louisiana’s prison system is facing criticism for its use of forced prison labor, which has led to accusations of modern-day slavery.

Read The Article

‘You’re a Slave’: Inside Louisiana’s forced prison labor and a failed overhaul attempt.

Louisiana has a high incarceration rate, and inmates are forced to work for little or no pay, leading to feelings of being enslaved. A ballot measure to remove language enabling involuntary servitude as a punishment for crime was rejected due to confusion over the wording.

Louisiana law mandates that state inmates must work while incarcerated, but they may not be compensated or earn as little as 2 cents an hour.

Critics argue that such policies perpetuate systemic racism and contribute to mass incarceration. Proponents of prison labor argue that it provides inmates with job skills and helps offset incarceration costs.

Louisiana voters will decide whether to remove a clause from the state constitution that allows for slavery and involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime.

The amendment was proposed by Democratic state senator Ed Price, who said he was shocked to discover the clause still existed. If it passes, Louisiana will become the first state in the US to remove the slavery clause from its constitution.

In contrast to Louisiana’s use of forced prison labor, Pennsylvania State University’s decision to cancel its proposed Center for Racial Justice has been criticized for undermining its commitment to social change and racial justice initiatives.

Read The Article

Penn State Criticized for Nixing Racial Justice Center

Pennsylvania State University’s decision to cancel its proposed Center for Racial Justice has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it undermines its commitment to social change and racial justice initiatives. Penn State University faced criticism for canceling plans to create a $3.5 million Center for Racial Justice in October 2022.

The university had started a faculty-led search for a founding director, but the new president decided that funds earmarked for the center would be better used on existing anti-racism initiatives due to budget issues.

The university also faced backlash for planning to host an event with the founder of the Proud Boys, a far-right organization that promotes political violence, which was subsequently canceled.

The combined actions sparked criticism from the campus community and state leaders, with over 400 faculty members signing a petition condemning the decision to cut the center.

Read The Article

Check out my YouTube Channel

Level Up: Equipping You to Get 1% Better in Life.

I created this channel to help you improve every aspect of your life. On this channel, you’ll find practical tips, insights, and strategies to help you reach your full potential and achieve your goals.

Whether you’re looking to develop your skills, manage your finances, improve your health, or build stronger relationships, I’ve got you covered.

My content is designed to inspire, motivate, and empower you to make positive changes in your life, one step at a time. I focus on practicality and action, so you can implement what you learn immediately.

As a member of our community, you’ll have access to a wealth of information to help you become a better version of yourself. Whether you want to increase your productivity, enhance your communication skills, or grow, you’ll find something here to help.

Would you be willing to assist me in accomplishing my goal of obtaining 1000 subscribers by subscribing to my channel?

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Welcome to my YouTube channel, “Level Up: Equipping You to Get 1% Better in Life.

As a member of our community, you’ll have access to a wealth of information to help you become a better version of yourself.

Whether you want to increase your productivity, enhance your communication skills, or grow, you’ll find something here to help.

Can you please subscribe to my channel to help me reach 1000 subscribers?

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2 Quotes That Caught My Attention

Watch out for people that will put you last but call you first when they have a problem.

Explanation

The quote “Watch out for people that will put you last but call you first when they have a problem” warns about one-sided friendships where people only reach out when they need something, leaving you feeling hurt and questioning your self-worth.

Action

It’s important to communicate your needs directly to your friends instead of assuming they will understand. Additionally, inclusive leadership that prioritizes diversity and inclusion can help build trust and a sense of belonging, where people feel that their uniqueness is appreciated. They have a voice in decision-making.

Be picky about who you let into your inner circle- it’s a privilege, not a right.

Explanation

Your inner circle is a special and safe space where you can be yourself, recharge, and reflect. Being selective about who you allow into this space is important because the people closest to us shape our mood, health, and success.

Being picky about your inner circle is not selfish but wise. The people in our inner circle are the ones we trust and rely on for support and advice. By being careful about who we let into our inner circle, we can create a safe space for honest conversations and deep connections.

Action

Set clear boundaries and standards for the people you allow in. Take the time to reflect on what qualities and values are important to you in a friend or confidant. Consider their past behavior and how they treat others. Don’t be afraid to say no to someone who doesn’t meet your standards, and don’t feel guilty about it. Remember, it’s a privilege to be part of your inner circle, and you have the right to choose who you let in. appreciated. They have a voice in decision-making.

It’s a Wrap!

That’s it for this week’s 1% Better Newsletter 🙂

In conclusion, this week’s newsletter explored the declining trend of church attendance among committed Christians, the controversy surrounding Louisiana’s prison system, and the proposed removal of the slavery clause from the state constitution. We also discussed the cancellation of Pennsylvania State University’s Center for Racial Justice and two quotes about cultivating healthy relationships by setting clear boundaries and standards.

These lessons align with the mission of the “Level Up: Equipping You to Get 1% Better in Life” YouTube channel, which provides practical tips, insights, and strategies to help viewers improve every aspect of their lives.

By prioritizing personal growth, setting boundaries, and building healthy relationships, we can become better versions of ourselves and achieve our goals.

Until next time, stay curious, stay informed, and stay inspired!

Here’s to your success,

Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

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Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Future: The Significance of Black History Month

by Clarence E. Stowers | Feb 8, 2023 | Black History Month, Empowerment, Race, Success

Black History Month commemorates and honors the rich history, accomplishments, and contributions of African Americans to American society.

For nearly a century, this annual observance has been an integral part of American culture, serving as a symbol of pride and unity for the African American community.

From the efforts of historian and author Carter G. Woodson to today's celebrations and events, Black History Month holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Americans.

In this blog post, we will examine the origins and significance of Black History Month, as well as how it is observed, and reflect on both the progress made and the work that remains to be done. Join us as we celebrate and honor African Americans' rich legacy and impact on our country.

With that being said, let's delve into a deeper understanding of the importance of Black History Month.

Understanding the Importance of Black History Month

February is significant in American history since it is Black History Month.

This annual commemoration allows us to reflect on the diverse and significant contributions of African Americans to the fabric of American society. Black History Month has been an important part of American culture since its inception in the 1920s, acting as a symbol of pride and unity for the African American community.

Americans are encouraged to learn more about the African American experience and how it has influenced our country's history throughout this month. Black History Month serves as a timely reminder of all that African Americans have done in sectors ranging from politics to science to education despite adversity.

This month also serves as a reminder of the numerous ways in which African Americans have contributed to our country's growth via their ingenuity, perseverance, and determination. Let us look ahead to the future with hope and excitement as we reflect on the past.

With a better understanding of the importance of Black History Month, let's take a look at its origins and how it became a celebrated observance in America.

February is significant in American history since it is Black History Month. This annual commemoration allows us to reflect on the diverse and significant contributions of African Americans to the fabric of American society.

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The Origin of Black History Month

Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian and author, was instrumental in establishing Black History Month.

He established the Association for the Study of African American Life and History in 1926 with the goal of promoting the study and acknowledgement of African American history.

Carter G. Woodson launched "Negro History Week" the following year, which was ultimately expanded to become Black History Month. February is utilized to honor and recognize the achievements of African Americans throughout history.

From the Revolutionary War to the present day, persons of African heritage have made substantial contributions to literature, science, medicine, civil rights movement, and other fields.

Furthermore, Black History Month allows us all to learn about the difficulties endured by African Americans in the past and now, allowing us to continue to strive for a brighter future for everyone.

Having traced the roots of Black History Month, it's time to delve deeper into why it holds such significance and why it continues to be an important observance in our society.

Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian and author, was instrumental in establishing Black History Month. He established the Association for the Study of African American Life and History in 1926 with the goal of promoting the study and acknowledgement of African American history.

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The Significance of Black History Month

Black History Month provides a chance to educate the general public on the significant role that African Americans have played in molding American history. It is time to honor African Americans' achievements and efforts while simultaneously raising awareness about current issues and injustices.

Black History Month is also a time for reflection, as it allows us to assess the progress made in improving African Americans' rights and opportunities, as well as the work that still needs to be done. Everyone must engage in recognizing African American contributions to make Black History Month as successful as possible.

We can express our support in a variety of ways, from attending special events and lectures to shopping at African-American companies. Furthermore, residents can learn more about African American history by using the various resources accessible on the internet and through local libraries.

With a clear understanding of the significance of Black History Month, let's now turn our attention to how it is celebrated and the various ways in which communities come together to mark this important occasion.

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The Celebration of Black History Month

Black History Month is honored through a range of activities such as festivals, exhibitions, and presentations. The event is usually attended by schools and community organizations, with a focus on educating young people about African American history and culture.

Aside from these events, many people choose to observe Black History Month by reading books, watching films, and attending performances that highlight African Americans' achievements and contributions.

We may all learn more about the crucial role African Americans have played in our country's history through these activities. By commemorating Black History Month, we recognize the achievements of African Americans both past and present, while also remembering their continuous battle for equality.

Black History Month allows us to reflect on how far we have come in terms of racial progress and to identify areas where we may still make progress toward a more equal society. As we recognize the significance of Black History Month, let us also remember that it is a time for introspection as well as action. Through education, advocacy, and determined efforts, we have the ability to effect change in our communities. We can create a more equitable and inclusive society for everybody by taking concrete actions toward racial justice.

What activities can you participate in to commemorate Black History Month? Here are a few recommendations:

- Discover the history of African Americans in America. You can accomplish this by reading books, watching movies, or attending events at your local library or museum.

- Take part in a conversation regarding current racial justice and Black Lives Matter issues. This could be done online, in person, or with friends and family.

- Contribute to organizations dedicated to the advancement of African Americans. Supporting local businesses owned by people of color, donating money to non-profits, and volunteering for a cause are all examples of this.

- Purchase products from businesses that value diversity and inclusion in their workforce.

- Participate in Black History Month celebrations. Lectures, workshops, film screenings, and other meetings could all fall within this category.

In conclusion, as we celebrate Black History Month, we reflect on the past and look to the future with hope and determination.

Black History Month allows us to reflect on how far we have come in terms of racial progress and to identify areas where we may still make progress toward a more equal society.

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In the end, Black History Month is an important part of American history, and it serves as a reminder of the many ways in which African Americans have helped make America what it is today.

It is a time to reflect on the past, assess the present, and look to the future with hope and determination. Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of African Americans and learn more about their rich history.

By going to events, reading books, supporting businesses owned by African Americans, and speaking up for racial justice, we can make a positive difference in our communities and work toward a better future for everyone.

Black History Month is a time to celebrate and pay tribute to the heritage and resilience of African Americans and to recommit ourselves to the ongoing struggle for equality.

3 Types of Friends You Will Have as a Leader

by Clarence E. Stowers | Dec 7, 2021 | Empowerment, Encouragement, Leadership, Relationships

3 Types of Friends You Will Have as a Leader

3 Types of Friends You'll Have as a Leader

"How do I know who is a friend and who isn't?" asks the leader. It's like Charlie Brown trying to find out if Lucy will hold the football for him again. Sometimes you're sure that person is your best friend, but then they go and do something that makes you question their loyalty. Whatever the case may be, every leader has three types of friends: Positional Friends, Transactional friends, and Real Friends.

Positional Friends

Most leaders' friends are positional because it's easy to be friends with people in high positions. The leader doesn't have to do anything except hold a position of authority for people to want to be around them. Additionally, when positional friends surround the leader, they can quickly get information and access things they need.

Most leaders' friends are positional. This means that they are friends because of their position or social status. For example, if I'm the President of the United States, then the Prime Minister of Canada might want to be my friend because I have power and can make decisions that affect him.

Additionally, people want to be close to the leader to increase their position. They might like to be considered for a promotion or have more power. They might wish the leader to pull strings and increase their access or ability to move forward somehow.

More often than not, these people are trying to get close to you for their gain. They might be looking for some form of recognition, reward, or promotion. Or they might be looking for something else altogether. There's no guarantee whether they will be there when you need them the most, and it's good practice to know where your true friends lie. When you're a leader, positional friends are the ones you'll find yourself surrounded with most often.

While it might be comfortable and convenient to have positional friends, it's important to remember that these people aren't always there for you. They are only looking out for themselves and their interests. In addition to having positional friends, a significant number of leaders' friends is transactional.

Transactional Friends

The second group of people who want to be close to you is transactional. These people will give friendship in exchange for something that increases their status, like increased power or access. They're your biggest fans and say nice things about you in public and to others when they're not around.

Transactional friends usually want to get close to the leader in exchange for something that benefits them. Maybe they want access to power or resources that they wouldn't typically have.

They want to be seen as close to the leader and might even try to get pictures or post about how great it is to be friends with you on social media. But, when the transaction is over, and they don't need anything from you anymore, they'll move on. They won't be there for you when the chips are down.

Furthermore, these are the people that only know you when you're in a position of power, and they're looking for their success. They might want to be in your inner circle because it increases their status, but if you get fired or demoted, they'll move on to someone else who's close to the top.

As a leader, it's essential to be aware of these people and what they're looking for. In addition to positional and transactional friends, few leaders have relational friends.

Real Friends

The final group of a leader's friends is relational. These friends will be there for you even if your leadership role ends. They're mature enough to understand that leadership doesn't end with one person; it's part of a more extensive process, and they'll stick around to see what happens next. These friends are relational, meaning they care about the leader for who they are, not just for the position they hold.

It might be hard to differentiate between your transactional and real friends. They both say nice things, they're both there for you in some ways, and they might even do similar things.

But real friends will be by your side no matter the outcome on the job or a project. If it succeeds, they'll celebrate with you. If it fails, they'll be the ones to help you pick yourself up and dust yourself off. They're the ones who are there for the long haul. A leader's true friends are those who are there for them no matter what the outcome is.

It can be challenging to tell the difference between transactional and real friends, but there are some key distinctions. Transactional friends will be there for you as long as you're able to give them something in return. They might celebrate your successes, but they'll also be there to pick you up when you fail. On the other hand real friends, will be there for you no matter what the outcome is. They're not looking for anything in return; they want to be friends.

Discern Who Truly Cares About You

Knowing who truly cares about your success is an integral part of being a leader. Don't be afraid to cut off the transactional and positional friends in your life – it's not worth it to have them around if they're not going to be there for you when you need them the most. And, remember, just because someone is a relational friend doesn't mean that they're perfect. There will be times when they say the wrong things or make decisions that don't align with your goals.

But, in the end, relational friends are worth their weight in gold. Loyalty is hard to find these days and an invaluable trait for anyone who wants to succeed. So, choose your friends wisely and stay loyal to them through thick and thin.

As a leader, it is hard to know your true friends. Most leaders' friends are positional or transactional because they want something in return for being there for you when you need them the most. Your relational friend will be loyal no matter the outcome on the job or project and won't leave just because of one failure.

It's difficult to tell whether someone is more transaction-oriented than relationship-oriented. Choose wisely when choosing friends and stay loyal through thick and thin!

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Why It’s Frustrating Leading Today’s Church and What to Do About It

by Clarence E. Stowers | Nov 30, 2021 | Christian, Christianity, Decisions, Empowerment, Encouragement, Leadership, Motivation

Church leaders, are you sensing something but can’t quite put your finger on it? Perhaps you’re feeling it’s becoming harder to lead. I want to talk about how we can change a culture. To do this, we need to understand it first.

We sometimes believe we have a problem when we don’t. We have a word for that, and it’s called being misdiagnosed, and it’s something we must avoid in our efforts to reach people. To reach the post-Covid and post-Christian West, we must first understand it thoroughly.

As you know, the world is shifting at a rapid pace. In this post, I’d like to focus on cultural changes taking place right under our noses. In other words, let me explain the mindset of the people who attend our churches and why it’s difficult leading them.

Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

The People We Lead Prefer Individual Freedom and Happiness.

Lately, people are splitting into groups aligned with their self-interests. People are more interested in themselves and what they think of themselves. They don’t care about what other people think of them anymore. These days, it’s all about us.

People are more interested in themselves and what they think of themselves. They don’t care about what other people think of them anymore. These days, it’s all about us.

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The Bible established the standard for ethics, what people thought, how they behaved, and what they valued in the past. Experiences, wants, preferences, and emotions have taken their place.

For example, married people might say, “I feel like something has changed.” And they might think that means they should get divorced. But sometimes, couples can work it out because their feelings change back again. That’s why the divorce rate is five times what it was 50 years ago.

Furthermore, people will say, “I believe in God,” but they won’t attend church because it is old-fashioned and too traditional. Why? Because self has been elevated above God.

I have a friend who fights for Black Lives Matter. She’s also sexually liberated and doesn’t believe in God. She is like, “I am not going to listen to what you want me to do with my body, but I will tell you what you can do regarding Black Lives Matter.

The contradiction is confusing. Some people do not want to be judged on what they do. But on social media, everyone seems to judge other people. They’re wannabe moralists.

As church leaders, we need to be able to push against this trend and make a difference.

Anything or Anyone That Restrict Freedom, Happiness, And Self-Expression Are Cancelled.

In the west, many people don’t think religion is important. They believe that they can make their own religion. This may be because they don’t like the way authority structures work. People want to do what they want to do and not follow anyone else, so many churches are having a hard time in today’s world. That mindset doesn’t adhere to the fact that Jesus is Lord.

When we say, “Jesus is Lord,” it’s about how we listen and obey what Jesus tells us. We know what we believe, but we must also follow his instructions.

Moreover, Christianity is not about winning. It is about obeying. We preach that you can be a winner in Christianity, but the truth is that it’s about following something that goes beyond you. This can make your self-fulfillment challenging.

We preach that you can be a winner in Christianity, but the truth is that it’s about following something that goes beyond you.

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What’s Next?

Expand your thinking beyond the church and your building. Think Mission.

The church is not meant to be a sanctuary, but rather it’s called the mission field. The goal should shift from building our faith within bricks and mortar walls; instead, let us strive for more than believing in something without seeing its results on earth–we need active participation that impacts lives around us!

The church is not meant to be a sanctuary, but rather it’s called the mission field.

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If you are a church leader or pastor, this post should explain why leading in today’s climate can be challenging. The people we lead prefer individual freedom and happiness instead of being told what they should do by an authority figure. This means that many churches are having trouble attracting members who want the gospel message of Jesus as Lord but not as Savior with all its restrictions on their behavior.

So, in short, people today don’t want to be restricted by authority structures – including the church. They want to do what they want to do and not follow anyone else.

However, this doesn’t mean that we should give up. We need to preach that Jesus is Lord and that our Faith is not about winning in life but following Him. We also need to be obedient to Him and not just do what we want. This will be a challenge in today’s society, but it’s one that we need to overcome.

5 Words of Advice for Young Pastors

by Clarence E. Stowers | Oct 4, 2021 | Empowerment, Encouragement, Leadership

As I’ve watched the world change over the last few decades, one thing has remained constant: my love for investing in young, teachable pastors.

I think it’s one of the best ways to encourage future leaders and provide them with great opportunities to grow their skillset. If you’re reading this, I know some of the following apply to you. You are passionate about Jesus and his Church.

You love people sincerely and want to pour into them (and let them pour into you). The pastorate is your call. You are experiencing the ups and downs of ministry life, including some who’ve invested in you (that you sincerely appreciate) and maybe others that aren’t so great.

One constant in ministry life is change. Each week I get to do things I’ve never done before. When you are a young pastor, the chances are good that you will face times where you feel ill-equipped and overwhelmed.

Now that I have more than twenty years of pastoring, I’m eager to share what I’m learning to help younger pastors. One question I’m generically asked often: What advice would you give to young pastors just starting in ministry? Here are five words of advice for young pastors:

Prioritize Your Relationship With The Lord. Keep Him First

If God has allowed you to be a pastor—it’s probably because He wants to use you to impact other people for His kingdom. And one of the best ways for Him to do that is through your relationship with Him.

So make sure you are growing in your faith. You are never too young to walk with God or learn more about Him.

Sometimes we can get distracted and forget about our relationship with the Lord and how He is working in our lives and ministry. His will for our ministry is deeper than we can comprehend, but we must keep Him centered in all that we do.

It may not always be easy to stay focused, but it’s worth it! Ask God to help you prioritize your relationship with Him and not let other things take the place of this essential bond.

There are many ways to put God first in your life, but I want to offer a few specific suggestions. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a breath and ask yourself what is essential at this moment.

When I feel overwhelmed, it sometimes helps me to pray, meditate, or read Scripture. Treating other people with kindness and respect is also a way to put God first.

You can do this by being honest without hurting people’s feelings, being polite when possible, and not gossiping or judging people behind their backs.

Sometimes we can get distracted and forget about our relationship with the Lord and how He is working in our lives and ministry.

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Prayer is The Foundation So Set It as a Priority

Prayer is the foundation, so set it as a priority in your schedule, or it will be pushed back/out. Prayer is not just about “talking to God” but much more. It is listening to what God has to say.

When you spend time listening to what God has to say, you also listen for his voice in other places like Scripture, what other people are saying, where you live, work, etc. It’s hard to catch God in a vacuum, so being aware of what God is doing around you will help your prayer life.

Prayer is the best thing you can do with your time. For Christians, prayer is talking to God, but it’s so much more than that. Prayer is listening to what God has to say and recognizing his voice everywhere. When you spend time listening for him in places other than prayer, it’s easier to know when he’s talking to you.”

Prayer is the foundation, so set it as a priority in your schedule, or it will be pushed back/out.

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Family is Your Top Priority. Ministry Comes Second. Failure in the Family Means Failure in Ministry

I am a pastor, and I understand the heavy responsibility of pastoral ministry. Still, I know that family and ministry go hand in hand. The family is the foundation of life and social connections.

When the family is working together, it provides stability for all members. The family also helps to set expectations for life and gives direction- both spiritually and practically. Failure in one area can lead to failure in another.

“Family is your top priority; ministry comes second.” This statement needs to be lived out for it to be taken seriously by those who are still calling themselves pastors while their marriage crumbles or while they neglect their children because they’re working more than they’re home. Young pastors who are entering the workforce must get a firm grasp of this truth.

Family is your top priority. Ministry comes second. Failure in the family means failure in ministry.

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In Proverbs, we read, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). This verse teaches us that God wants to build His church through families- not just children, but families.

The home is the primary place where a child learns about God and their identity as an adopted son or daughter of God (John 1:12). These foundational truths are planted in the soil of our hearts through family relationships.

The home is the primary place where a child learns about God and their identity as an adopted son or daughter of God (John 1:12).

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Find Mentors and Encourage Them to Mentor You

Finding the right mentors is a crucial part of entering ministry. Mentors can help you learn what it takes to be in ministry, and they can teach you how to prioritize your time and give you advice on the best ways to approach people. A mentor can help you interpret your new culture and navigate complex issues.

Mentors can help you learn what it takes to be in ministry, and they can teach you how to prioritize your time and give you advice on the best ways to approach people.

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Your mentors should be trusted people who also see the vision God has for you in ministry. When interviewing a potential future mentor, choose someone who will stretch, encourage and inspire you to be your best self while loving on you through some hard conversations. You need to be open with them and know that they have your best interest at heart.

It’s okay to have a mentor who has more experience than you; remember that God did not call them to be YOU. You are called uniquely by God, and the wisdom of other pastors will never compare to how he may guide you through his word. Find someone who will see your potential and come alongside you while encouraging you to pursue what God has called you to do.

When interviewing a potential future mentor, choose someone who will stretch, encourage and inspire you to be your best self while loving on you through some hard conversations.

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You Can’t Do It By Yourself, Don’t Be Afraid to Ask For Help

Someone once said, “if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go further, go with a team.” Translation: Become a part of a tribe that will hold you accountable and encourages you to pursue what God has called you to do. Your well-being is never more important than the greater vision God has for your ministry.

It’s great that you have a heart for ministry, but your priority should be yourself after God. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Being too tired to function correctly will lead to mistakes and causing more harm than good. If you don’t prioritize your well-being, you won’t last in ministry for very long.

Being too tired to function correctly will lead to mistakes and causing more harm than good.

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You should always be learning and growing, but that can come at a cost if you don’t manage your time wisely. Ask yourself the question, “What will I miss out on by saying yes?” It may have been good for others, but was it necessary or correct for you? Practice learning to say no. Don’t let yourself fall into the trap of yes, just because you’re too afraid to say no.

Your leadership will make or break the people you’re leading. The more empowered and encouraged they feel by your leadership, the more likely they will stick around and grow with you toward a common goal.

Jesus said that “All of you should be of one mind; united in spirit with one purpose.” Don’t be afraid to surround yourself with people who see the vision God has for you and want to see you succeed as a leader.

Did you find today’s post helpful? What additional advice would you give to young pastors?

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I hope you find this helpful. Let me know if you have any specific requirements or changes you'd like to make.

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Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Future: The Significance of Black History Month

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The Significance of Black History Month

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3 Types of Friends You Will Have as a Leader

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Why It’s Frustrating Leading Today’s Church and What to Do About It

The People We Lead Prefer Individual Freedom and Happiness.

Anything or Anyone That Restrict Freedom, Happiness, And Self-Expression Are Cancelled.

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Prayer is The Foundation So Set It as a Priority

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You Can’t Do It By Yourself, Don’t Be Afraid to Ask For Help

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