By Janelle Higdon
Being a pastor is not an easy job. It’s not a role to take lightly. Becoming a pastor involves taking on the weight of responsibility of stewarding a flock of God’s people. It is a task with eternal significance.
Before you start taking steps to become a pastor, consider these 5 questions.
- Are you spiritually ready?
The spiritual responsibility that pastors feel is heavy. It is no small matter to be teaching people about God. James 3:1 says, “Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.”Be sure to avidly pursue your study of the Bible and take your prayer life seriously. - Do you have a strong network of mentors and support?
Becoming a pastor will probably be challenging. In addition to earning a pastoral studies degree and other pastor education, there will be spiritual challenges and attack. You may experience seasons of encouragement as well as discouragement.Find mentors, including experienced pastors and people in other careers who will support you spiritually and emotionally. Ask for wisdom, feedback, and encouragement as you begin your career and ministry as a pastor. - Have you built basic business skills?
You might be surprised to know that basic business skills are essential to becoming a pastor. Your job extends beyond leading the spiritual walks for everyone in your congregation. Pastors also lead many business functions of the church, financial decisions, and even marketing and communications tasks.Without basic business skills, you can put the functionality and the success of your church in jeopardy. With them, you lay a strong foundation for your church to grow on. - Have you cultivated your leadership skills?
Leading takes humility. A servant heart. Willingness to listen. Boldness. Ideas. Responsibility. Follow-through. Seek out opportunities to grow your leadership skills. Find a leader to mentor and challenge you. - Do you have the degree and education that you need?
Pastors benefit from education and training, just like people in any other career field. Various degrees applicable to pastoral roles include the following:
