I vividly remember a number of years ago that we were moving some things on the platform of our church getting ready for some event. One of our Youth, who was maybe ten or twelve years old, was carrying a speaker probably a little bigger than he was when he slipped and careened into the wall causing the corner of speaker to leave a nice sized dimple in the drywall. He immediately looked over at me, feeling guilty and said, “Pastor, I’m sorry, I left a mark.” Without giving it much thought, I instantly said something to the effect of, “Yep, I guess you did. That is exactly what I want you to do, Jared. Go into this world, allow Jesus to work through you and leave a mark! I’m serious. Don’t ever forget it!”

That event could have gone a different way. I could have made a careless, cutting comment leaving a mark on his spirit and soul that could have damaged or severely hampered his potential. I am so thankful I said what I did. The Holy Spirit must have been hard at work that day! Since that time, Jared has grown into an incredible young man, married now with a beautiful wife, 2 children and is a staff pastor at an amazing church. No guarantees, but had I reacted differently, things may have turned out differently for him.

Read the full article at pastorresources.com

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John Adams has been pastoring New Life Church in Sandusky, Ohio for over 23 years and has served as a law enforcement chaplain for over a decade. He was recently featured as a guest on Michael Hyatt’s “Lead to Win” podcast and teaches “Emotional Survival for Pastors.” For more information, visit: PastorJohn.net