In the last few months, I have had the opportunity to help with some ministry training of new ministers. It has given me time to think about what might be most important. Obviously, the most important thing for a minister is a strong spiritual foundation. Your relationship to Jesus is really your only asset. Everything else rests on your spiritual foundation.
But, what is the most important gift in ministry? What one thing does every minister have to work on, keep sharp, and improve continually? No matter what your ministry, communication is your most important gift. You have to communicate well to share vision, passion, directions, structure, worship, prayer, financial needs, and the gospel message.
If you are going into ministry, I strongly urge you to take a public speaking class. Get your hands on anything that teaches you about public speaking in every type of venue. Work on pronunciation. Start now and remove all unnecessary stuff from your casual conversation. You can become a great public speaker by practicing these in your everyday conversations.
Here are some things to eliminate.
Um...
Like...
Well, you know...
The thing of it is...
The funny thing is...
Blah, blah, blah...
You know...
So, I'm like...
And uh...
Next, get rid of all mumbling. Study the mispronunciation of words so you pronounce words correctly. Don't use a word if you don't say it right. Don't use a word until you are sure what it means. Learn to pronounce your consonants with strength so that you sound confident. Learn to look people in the eye in conversation and then make eye contact in your public speaking. Eliminate large and awkward silent spaces in your speaking.
So far, I have focused on things to eliminate. Remember that the Bible says even a fool who keeps his mouth shut will be considered wise.
