If someone were to ask me, “What’s the best advice you can give for becoming a pastor” I would first talk to them about all the basics. For example, read the Bible, attend Bible college, pray more, love others more than yourself, and be sure to serve your church. But then I would give the most important piece of advice about becoming a pastor: Be Yourself!

There is only one you. God made you unique. He made you for His purpose. And while you’re very well aware of your imperfections and shortcomings, you will always feel most comfortable in your own skin. You don’t have to be the smartest, the wisest, the funniest, or the greatest preacher. Just be you!

It’s important to sit under and learn from pastors, mentors and teachers, but you can’t get lost in the midst of your training. Just as David couldn’t wear someone else’s armor, you can’t wear another man’s crown.

You have your own crown. Wear it proudly.