There have been several people in my life, other than my parents, who have profoundly shaped my life. 

A person who profoundly shaped my life was my youth pastor. In my adolescence, I thought pastors and preachers were always gray-haired, boring old men who repeated themselves. My youth pastor, Jerry Hairgrove, was young and had an energetic way of helping me see that the Bible had application in my life. He helped me see another side of ministry, that it did not have to be dry as toast, that ministers could have fun! He EMPOWERED my ministry.

Another person who profoundly shaped my life was Dr. Mark Minnick. Dr. Minnick taught Pulpit Speech, the Art of Constructing Biblical Sermons. He taught me that the power of a sermon is in the text and helped to develop a passion for preaching. Dr. Minnick also noticed my talents and gifts and encouraged me to use them to the fullest. He EMPOWERED my preaching.

Still another person who continues to influence me is a member of our church. This Christian gentleman always has a word of encouragement. He constantly helps me hone my leadership skills and gives me a positive vision of the future. This man EMPOWERS my vision.

Empowerment may be defined as “seeing the God-given potential in someone and encouraging them to pursue it.” When we empower others, we give them a brighter vision of tomorrow. Empowering means helping another person live out God’s will! Paul prayed a prayer of empowerment for the Ephesians in today’s verse!