I’m often asked “who are the leaders that have had an impact on me”? So, here’s some leaders who have made a difference in my life and growth as a Pastor…
1) Rick Warren, Pastor of Saddleback Church. Without a doubt, I would not have started Palm Valley if it weren’t for the influence of Rick Warren. It was at the Purpose Driven Conference in 1998 that God used Rick to open my eyes to a new way of doing church. I felt like God was speaking directly through Rick to me. At that conference I prayed that God would use me to start a church that would reach people for Christ.
At our core, Palm Valley is a Purpose Driven Church. Through his material Rick taught me how to preach, to lead, to cast vision, and to reach people. It was a highlight of my life 2 years ago when Rick presented me (and PVC) with the PD Church Health Award. I’ll always be grateful to Rick for his leadership, the way he handles criticism, and his impact on my life.
2) Ed Young, Pastor of Fellowship Church. My path crossed Ed’s about 3 years ago, and he’s had a huge impact on my life since then. Ed is an incredible leader, visionary, teacher, and pastor. I’m not sure why, but Ed has given me opportunities to learn from him. He’s given me his time, and made his staff available to me. There have been a few times where I’m really wrestling with stuff, and I’ve been able to talk with Ed and gain wisdom from him.
Ed has taught me a great deal about creativity, leadership through the tough stuff, structuring a church for growth, being a pastor who lives by priority, and protecting my family in ministry.
I truly call Ed a friend, and he is also a pastor to me. I have a great deal of respect for him. He’s the real-deal, and he walks the walk. I’m thankful for the favor God has given me with Ed, and that he’s been willing to pour into me (as well as a ton of other pastors).
3) Andy Stanley, Pastor of North Point Church. Andy is point blank one of the best teachers of Scripture today. He’s also an insane leader, gifted at developing systems and empowering leaders. I’ve learned a ton from Andy about how to structure a church for long-term health.
I read everything Andy writes, and listen to him on a regular basis. Last year our staff attended his Drive Conference, and we were walked away in awe of what they’re accomplishing at North Point.
4) Don Wilson, Pastor of Christ’s Church of the Valley. Before I launched Palm Valley in 2000, I found very few leaders who would spend time with me and pour into me. On a whim, I called CCV and asked to meet with Don. He agreed, and gave me a 1/2 hour of his time. I went with a list of questions, hoping to get through them in this time. After about 2 hours Don was still talking with me and answering my questions. I left believing that he truly cared, and that he wanted to see me succeed.
CCV is an awesome church, and Don is an awesome Pastor. I love getting together with him. He’s got such a huge kingdom heart, he always inspires me.
I’m always seeking to learn, and I’m thankful for these guys who have been willing (directly or indirectly) to invest in me. They’re true leaders, and they’re having a huge impact. I’ll be posting soon on some guys I’m looking to as future leaders.
