Stay true to the Word as it is the only source of truth and genuine guidance. It can be tempting to look for proof texts for what you believe, but rather let it speak to you as it seems best. Then do it. I have found that best in all I do.
Stay close to the Lord. Talk to Him often about everything. Bring your complaints and questions and your joys to Him. He can handle them all even when some of your closest friends can’t. And he gives the best advice.
Love your people whom God has given you to minister to. Even love those who have yet to receive Christ. That love can cover a multitude of hurts and help you to minister as Jesus would to them.
Never put your ministry ahead of your family. They are the foremost responsibility that God has given you and no matter where you go to minister they will always be there. Your wife and your children must always take precedence.
Remember that God is more interested in His minister than he is in His ministry he has given you. Do not neglect your personal relationship to God. You must be spiritually healthy in order to help others in their walk with God.
In it all enjoy the journey with the Lord. There will be times of joy and times of sorrow. There will be times of triumph and times of defeat. But it will be an exciting and fulfilling journey and God will be glorified.
Press on until He comes,
Roy Polman