Sunday’s message was a tough one. Not only did I share my heart and past mistakes but it was a wake up call to couples to come clean and honest. Purity is a great word, but when you ask someone to live it, it’s a different story.

I’ve been around churches and pastors all my life. I’m seen my share of the great ones and some that I feel should be looking for a new job. One of the most important things I love about a great pastor is his transparency. Does he seem like one of us, or does he paint a picture of his life that makes you think he might be God’s “other son”? People tend to understand and learn from someone that has gone through it. They want to know that they aren’t the only person that feels this way.

One of the most powerful things Jesus did was to become a man. He literally went through everything we went through and lived a sinless life.

Hebrews 4:15

¹⁵For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are-yet was without sin.

As a leader, don’t lose focus on the purpose…to lead by example. You want your congregation to give big, then you give big first. You want volunteers to show up on time and do their best, then don’t come strolling in after worship, preach your message and leave. Be the first in and last out. If you want your church to be a house of worship, then get up in the front row and worship God with all your heart. Let them see the kind of worshippers you are looking for. If you want people to live a righteous and pure life, then have it start with you. Live the life and show others how to do it. Be transparent. Don’t hide your failures; they are just going to come out soon or later anyway. Be accountable, be teachable and most importantly, be REAL!

I’m a firm believer that God is looking for real people to use. He doesn’t call the skilled but equips those He calls. If you have the heart, God can work with you. The days of men coming out of seminary and walking into their jobs as pastors are starting to change. That doesn’t say we aren’t supposed to continue to learn and study, but being “unqualified” shouldn’t stop you from taking the lead. David, Moses, Joseph, Peter, Paul…none of them were qualified. But they lived a real life of devotion unto God and allowed their lives to be examples, GOOD and BAD, for others to see. Look how much we can learn from David’s mistakes. Hearing Peter’s struggles both inspires and teaches us. My hope is that my life can do the same.

Pastors – It’s time to get real. You’re accountable for your congregation. Lead them with purity and honor.

M