My Next Steps

By Donald Horton

First, I will never be afraid to take the next step. I am not qualified educationally; however, I know that if I am willing, and I allow the Holy Spirit to guide and teach me I will continue to grow. I will use His Word, my life’s experiences, past mistakes and successes to help others in all ways possible.  He will open doors for me and show me the path that I should take daily.

Gaining trust in people will require my time, listening, and even more time. They will want to know that I care about them more than what I may know. I will be consistent, honest, and humble in all things; even when it is uncomfortable, or inconvenient for me.

I believe that my own self-awareness and boundaries must always stay within my Christian beliefs. I will hold them to be my standards for Ministry. I will always show grace, compassion, and the love of Christ to everyone; even if they have different views, opinions, or beliefs and values; but will not let my own be compromised.

Being a Chaplain will require more of my time and energy than I currently give, and the demands on me might become overwhelming. I will always keep myself in check to make sure that I allow time for myself and my family and my own spiritual needs. I will continue to study and get more education, resources, and personal contacts when possible to help me continue to grow and learn how to be more effective.