What I would tell my 29 year old self
What I would tell my 29 year old self
Embrace Your Calling
Your journey as a prophetic thought leader and minister is just beginning at 29. Embrace it fully and trust in God's plan for your life. Remember that your unique experiences and insights are valuable tools for equipping the body of Christ. Trust the Process: Understand that spiritual growth and ministerial effectiveness take time. Be patient with yourself and trust that God is molding you for greater purposes. Stay Rooted in Scripture: As you develop your prophetic gifts, always anchor them in the Word of God. This will ensure that your ministry remains grounded and aligned with biblical truth.
Cultivate Spiritual Disciplines
Developing strong spiritual habits now will serve you well in the years to come. Prayer and Fasting: Dedicate more time to prayer and fasting. These practices will sharpen your spiritual senses and deepen your connection with God. Continuous Learning: Never stop studying. The world is constantly changing, and to stay effective in ministry, you must stay informed and adaptable. 
Prepare for Challenges
Ministry life comes with its unique set of challenges. Be prepared to face them with grace and resilience. Develop Emotional Intelligence: Work on understanding and managing your emotions, as well as those of others. This skill will be invaluable in navigating the complexities of church leadership. Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with mentors and peers who can offer guidance, support, and accountability. You don't have to walk this path alone.
Focus on Relationships
As you grow in your ministry, remember the importance of relationships. Invest in People: Your most significant impact will come through genuine connections with others. Prioritize building meaningful relationships within your congregation and community. Balance Ministry and Family: Don't neglect your personal life in pursuit of ministry goals. A strong, healthy family life will support and enhance your effectiveness as a leader.
Embrace Innovation
To transition the body of Christ into higher levels of effectiveness, be open to new methods and technologies. Stay Current: Keep abreast of technological advancements and cultural shifts. These can be powerful tools for spreading the Gospel and connecting with younger generations. Be Bold in Vision: Don't be afraid to think big and implement innovative strategies in your ministry. Your unique perspective as a prophetic thought leader can bring fresh insights to the church. Remember, Leslie, that your journey at 29 is just the beginning of a powerful ministry. Stay humble, remain teachable, and always keep your eyes fixed on Christ. Your experiences and growth will shape you into the prophetic thought leader you are today, equipping the body of Christ for greater effectiveness in the Kingdom of God.
