By Clint Cook

A couple of weeks ago I shared with you that conferences, especially the Minister’s Conference, have been a big part of my success in ministry.  Conferences have always been of utmost importance to me, not only because they help develop long-terms relationships with fellow pastors (as I mentioned previously) but also for the opportunity to continue my education.

I have discovered that conferences are a great way to sharpen my skills, especially in a worship setting where the Word of God is being preached.  I love being challenged by biblical truths that provide incredible motivation.  Early on, when I was a younger pastor, there was much for me to learn, much for me to digest.  New principles and techniques I learned through conferences really paid off in my pastoral leadership development.  As I have gotten older, I recognize that I now attend conferences to find a special nugget.  I may attend the whole conference before I discover that one nugget that is exactly what I or my church need.

I have been very fortunate to pastor a church that was convinced they must invest in my continuing education.  Because of this continuing education, discouragement has not crippled me and I have not drifted toward dissatisfaction in ministry.

The bottom line: conferences give me an edge that has always been very valuable for me personally, as well as for my church.

To learn more about the Minister’s Conference, or any of our other four conferences we host throughout the year, go to generalbaptist.com or call 573-785-7746.