| One of God’s greatest gifts to me is my associate pastor. He points me to the Lord, helps share the load, sharpens me when I’m confused, encourages me when I lose heart, and is high-capacity in areas I am not. Not all churches can enjoy this provision, of course, but having a sidekick on the pastoral staff halves my troubles and doubles my joys. In a new article titled “Associate Pastor, It’s Good to Be Second,” Joe Carter draws from biblical wisdom—and his own experience as an associate pastor—to show how beautiful and strategic “number two” roles can be. An associate may even be the key to unlocking a congregation’s true potential. So much of the brother’s effectiveness, though, will depend on his ability—and eagerness—to “play the background” in various ways. Where does such humble contentment originate? From looking to the ultimate One who came not to be served but to serve. “When we grasp that the Son of God himself chose the path of submission and service, it elevates our perspective on supporting positions,” Carter reflects. “We’re not just filling a role in an organizational chart; we’re participating in a divine pattern that God consistently uses to carry out his mission.” Becoming an effective supporting leader is not easy; it requires “spiritual discipline and consistent practice.” Carter offers five simple suggestions: - Examine yourself daily.
- Pray daily.
- Know and use your complementary ministerial abilities.
- Cultivate spiritual maturity and integrity.
- Look to the right reward.
Associate pastor, don’t grow weary in doing good. Your labor is not in vain. Carter is right: Being second is not about being secondary. It’s about being strategic. | 
