Getting Through to Quitting Times: An Inspiring Journey with Pastor James O’Brien
This episode of the R3 Ministry Network podcast features Pastor James O’Brien from Greater Light Baptist Church in Lillington, North Carolina. Pastor James shares his personal story of becoming a bi-vocational pastor, the challenges he faced such as having low attendance and struggling with doubt, and how he relied on faith and his relationship with Christ to persevere.
He recounts the discouragement of times when no one came to his church and how his faith was tested, leading him to find solace in scripture. Pastor James emphasizes the importance of being faithful despite the lack of visible results and the unexpected help he received from a community member that transformed his church’s building situation.
This podcast offers encouragement to other pastors facing similar struggles, reminding them of the importance of patience, faith in God’s timing, and maintaining strength through the Word.
What we discuss:
- Pastor James’ Background and Calling
- Journey to Ministry and Family Life
- Challenges and Early Ministry
- Church Planting in North Carolina
- Struggles and Perseverance
- Finding Strength in Faith
- Building the Church Brick by Brick
- Balancing Life and Ministry
- Morning Rituals for a Strong Marriage
- Honest Conversations and Closeness
- The Eternal Conflict and Faithfulness
- Lessons from Colossians and Ephesus
- Unexpected Blessings and Challenges
- Encouragement for Pastors and Church Planters
Healthy Leaders…Strong Churches
Refresh A Pastor (and his wife)!
Everyone could use a regular refreshment and pastors and their wives are no exception. That’s why we want to help refresh as many pastors and their wives as we are afforded. We know pastors keep long hours and full days. Often their wives work outside the home as well. Additionally, some pastors work part-time jobs to help make ends meet. Extra finances for a much-needed date outing are just not available. We want to help. So, we began the Refresh a Pastor ministry. Refresh a Pastor commits $100 per month for 12 months to needy pastors used exclusively for a once per month date outing. It has been a huge encouragement to many, and we want to bless many more!
Pastor Advisory Team Summary
The need for pastors we serve at R3 is access to godly counsel that is experienced, caring, strong in character, and willing to help. Could you use a team that recognizes your unique tasks as a pastor, church planter, or revitalizer? If so, we designed a Pastor Advisory Team with you in mind. To learn more, email [email protected]
Proverbs 11:14, 15:22
Our Iron Team calls are designed to sharpen and influence one another, as iron sharpens iron according to Proverbs 27:17. The goal is to enhance our ministry impact while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
During these calls, we bring together pastors, missionaries, and full-time ministry leaders, with one designated leader per team. Your presence and active participation are highly valued and beneficial.
To learn more about IRON Team calls and how to get involved, please click here: (r3ministrynetwork.org)
Take a step towards revitalizing churches and supporting pastors today!
Email Greg at [email protected] to learn more, recommend someone for the Refresh program, or explore how you can partner with R3 Ministry Network.
Your involvement can make a lasting impact on pastors, church leaders, and communities.
Don’t miss out—join us on this journey of refreshment, revival, and restoration. Email now and be a part of the R3 movement: [email protected].
📚 Bonus Resources!
Explore the principles discussed in the episode with our free downloadable resources
