6. Remembering names will get you a long way relationally with people.
This should’ve been a class in seminary. Seriously.
7. You’ve got to be internally motivated to succeed as a pastor.
It’s easy to coast. I’ve seen too many guys slip through the cracks on autopilot. If you’re going to succeed, you’ve got to create traction, recruit, train, invest and stretch. Nobody else will do that for you.
8. People will constantly look at you for spiritual answers.
Constantly. The more you can give them hope, the better. You won’t have all of the answers, but you’re expected to. Constantly. Giving answers as to “why” is good … giving hope in the midst of pain is better.
9. Seminary is a bubble.
The real world doesn’t think, act or talk like people do in seminary. If you act like a seminary student the rest of your life, you’ll be pushed to the fringes of real ministry.
10. Who you recruit to be on your leadership team (both staff and laity) will shape your ministry.
This is true whether you’re talking about deacons, elders, small-group leaders or kids ministry volunteers. Recruit well. Don’t settle for hiring someone who’s not a fit on your team. Take risks on people, but know they will shape your ministry.
Question: Have you been to seminary? What do you wish they’d taught you?
