I was asked to share something encouraging or instructive with the church for a blog, so I thought I would draw from my wealth of experience to help me. Unfortunately, I have only been serving as a head pastor for three months.

Even though I have been serving in ministry for years, in many different capacities, it did not take long for me to realize being a pastor of a church was different from anything I have experienced in the past. There is a level of responsibility, expectation, and challenge that is truly unique concerning serving as a pastor. It is a task that can truly be overwhelming and stressful at times as many experienced pastors will tell you.

I would be lying if I said I have not had second thoughts at least once during the past few months. If I were alone in this endeavor, I would certainly have failed or given up by now. Thankfully I am not alone I have God leading me, and a family that supports me every step of the way.

On top of that I have been blessed with several pastors that have mentored me and discipled me for many years and continue to do so to this day. I also have church elders and deacons that are there to guide me and most importantly let me learn and grow from my mistakes.

I am a firm believer in Proverbs 12:15 that a wise man takes advice. I may be inexperienced, but I am aware of my inexperience. I am so blessed that pastors, youth leaders, and my many church families have taken time to pour into me and invest in me over the years.

In the words of Paul, they have “charged me to walk in a manor worthy of God who calls you into his kingdom.” It is only through their encouragement that I can fulfill the calling God has placed on my life. I hope that as I move forward in my ministry that I can invest and pour into others and truly charge them as I have been charged.

In Romans 1 Paul speaks about how there is mutual encouragement between himself and the ones he is ministering to. These relationships work both ways, when discipleship takes place, everyone grows and is encouraged.

To all the pastors and church leaders reading I encourage you to invest and lift up the young future leaders in your church. Discipleship is vital to the future of the church. Today make an effort to pour yourself into someone, it could change their lives forever, mine certainly was. Pray for God to place these people in your lives, look for opportunities to be a mentor. These investments could shape the kingdom God is building through his church. 

About the Author: David Hill is the pastor of West Side General Baptist Church in St. Ann, Missouri. He currently lives in Granite City, Illinois with his wife Amanda and their three children.