I don’t think I’ve ever questioned my calling to pastoral ministry, what the Lord has given me to do. But I have questioned whether or not I could continue doing it. When this happens, I confess my own struggles and weakness with the other pastors and elders at my church. I also listen to my wife, who speaks truth to me, who corrects me, who loves me. Then I recall God’s providence, the circumstances, people, and scenarios that he brought together to lead me into pastoral ministry. My calling isn’t something I could have devised on my own. I find comfort in that.
— C. J. Coffee, lead elder, The Well, Portland, Oregon
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