The Importance of Your 20s and 30s

Todd Wagner joins Adam and John in the studio to discuss the importance of leading well in your 20s and 30s. These are some of the most formative years in a leader's life and getting them right will be a blessing to both yourself and others. Listen in as Todd shares how to practically make the most of your 20s and 30s.

Episode Summary

Podcast Highlights

"I still don't think of myself as the pastor of a church. I think of myself as a follower of Jesus who, with a group of friends, is living on mission in Dallas." - Todd Wagner

Todd emphasizes the importance of not waiting till you've acquired a particular title before you do the work of ministry. You do not need to be a "pastor" to faithfully follow God in your city. Stop just "going to Church" and start being the Church of God where you are at. If you are a pastor, remember that your job is to simply equip the saints for the work of ministry and surrender your life to the Lord. (Ephesians 4:11-16)

"I am under zero illusion as to why the kindness of God has me here. I know it is grace from beginning to end." - Todd Wagner

It is crucial that leaders in their 20s and 30s remember that they are where they are only because of God's grace. Early in church leadership, it is more important to ever that you strive to be humble.

"There is a difference between wanting to be godly and actually doing the things you need to do to be a godly man or woman." - Todd Wagner

Desire should move you to action. Do not simply want the abundant life without pursuing the one who came to give you it. The "precious possession of a man is diligence" (Proverbs 12:27). The Lord doesn't bless the undisciplined with the fruit of diligence. Allow the Proverbs that talk about diligence to mark you and inspire you. Jesus longs to share with us the riches of who He is. Ask questions and seek to know more about Him. Show yourself faithful by doing all that you can.

If you are struggling with what to do in your 20s and 30s, strive to:
* Read Biographies of believers who will inspire you to live faithfully.
* Read God's Word daily.
* Be around those who you can look up to and respect. Run with wise men and women.
* Practice discipline and live boldly.

"There is no program to curb your flesh. You must crucify it. This is a daily decision." - Todd Wagner

Being disciplined and dying to yourself is not natural for us. We must make it a daily part of our lives. Learn to live in such a way that it serves you the rest of your life. You will never be wasting your time when you are deepening in your knowledge of God. Say "yes" to what the Lord would have of you. There is no instance or singular moment when you are going to suddenly "arrive." There are no short cuts. Don't worry so much about tomorrow. Do not delay. Focus on following the Lord and seek righteousness today.