For the next couple of months, I am going to be sharing a series of articles focused on things I have learned that are traits of an effective pastor and leader. A wonderful description was made of King David in Psalm 78:70-72. He chose David his servant and took him from the sheep pens; he brought him from tending ewes to be shepherd over his people Jacob – over Israel, his inheritance. He shepherded them with a pure heart and guided them with skillful hands. One of the first thing I notice is that it was God that called him into this position of leadership. When Paul met up with the elders from Ephesus, he exhorted them saying, Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers (Acts 20:28). We see here that it was God who placed a calling on their life to lead his people. I believe a pastor is one who is chosen by God to be his servant to shepherd his flock. This is both a source of encouragement and solemn conviction of responsibility. Leading people is not an easy task and sometimes it is only the sense of calling that keeps one in the ministry. But we can be encouraged when we know that God not only calls us, but He empowers us with His Spirit, encourages us with His Word, and accomplishes His purposes through our work. As we faithfully fulfill His calling we can look forward to the day we hear him say, “Well done my good and faithful servant.” – Dr. Gary Mathes