My dear son,

I wanted to pass along some things that I want you to continually remember.

I hope you know how much I love you. You have done well, very well. I know when I say this to you tend to think of all your shortcomings and weaknesses; how you have failed. And how you think you should be further along. Don’t allow these things to paralyze your progress but continue to move forward as you walk with Jesus. There will be so many voices telling you to do this or that. But remember there is only ONE God … It is his voice that must be heard above all. He has spoken to us through his word. Allow it to guide and direct your decisions; your life. But never forget the writer as you mediate on the his writings. Quiet your heart before God and spent time at his feet, listening and worshipping. Allow this relationship to grow ever more open and intimate for it is from this position that you can lead. As you seek to lead, lead from a heart of humility knowing but for the grace of God you would be unable to do anything. Remember a heart of humility is always acceptable to God. When the man you are working with stumbles and falls, gently and patiently come along side him, walk with him. Teach him about God’s grace and forgiveness from his Word and live those truths out before him. As The Lord blesses you with a wife and children. Never forget that they are your disciples as well. Ministry will always be calling you away from your family, don’t allow this to happen. You have been called to be a husband and a father as well. Your wife and children need you. Minster to them, equip and care for them. Remember with relationship comes influence. As your relationship grows with your family, your voice will be heard and as you walk with Jesus … Your words and your actions will point them toward Jesus. You will fail at times, let your example of repentance be an instructor as well. As you work with men don’t allow the instruction and mastery of the God’s word to be divorced from life. Remember a leader is someone who knows the word of God, seeks to live out those truths and humbly yields his will to the Holy Spirit.

You must stand firm and not waiver on this Jesus is the only way to God. Remember the gospel; Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection have made it possible for our sins to be forgiven and through this we have peace with God. This truth is primary! Stand firm on the Word of God as well. Do not seek to live this life in your own strength but yield your will to the Holy Spirit, allow His strength, His guidance to permeate your heart. In this way His fruit will be seen in your life. Walk by the Holy Spirit!

Pay close attention to yourself in these matters. If you do, you will be useful to God and will use you in the lives of many.