#079

This week on The Journey, we welcome James Oney back to Ridgecrest as we explore what it means to be called by God into a role you do not feel fully prepared for. Drawing on his own journey from staff member to senior pastor, James shared how God confirmed his calling through prayer, a dream, and a series of unmistakable providential moments. He also addressed the reality of spiritual loneliness in leadership, the challenge of measuring genuine transformation in a congregation, and the importance of staying anchored to a clear mission. His reflections carry implications for all of us as we consider how God calls, equips, and sustains those who surrender to His direction.

Takeaways:

Being called and feeling ready are not the same thing. James was transparent that he never felt fully prepared to step into the senior pastor role, yet he trusted that God equips the called over time, not all at once. Like Moses and Abraham before him, obedience to the call mattered more than a sense of personal readiness.

Spiritual transformation is visible in the posture of a person’s heart. James noted that genuine spiritual growth shows itself not in church attendance or the right words, but in a heart bent toward God, evidenced by humility, repentance, and a changed response to the difficulties of everyday life. The fruit of someone’s life reflects the root of someone’s life.

Community and accountability are essential for those in leadership. Whether through his Thursday morning discipleship group or the pastoral wellness resources available through the Georgia Baptist Convention, James emphasized that no leader is meant to carry the weight of ministry in isolation. Finding faithful people to walk alongside is not a luxury but a necessity.