Calling, Counsel, and the Unplanned Path to Ministry (featuring Jeremy Pray)

In part two of our executive pastor series, Jeremy joins Matt and Kent to share his story—one that’s shaped not by dramatic turns, but by steady faith and quiet surrender.Jeremy describes his early profession of faith as “boring,” but as the conversation unfolds, you’ll see how a life of subtle beginnings can still lead to deep conviction. From a childhood story that sparked belief to a mission trip moment he didn’t realize was shared with his future wife, Jeremy’s life is full of quiet providence.He reflects on unexpected turns in his family story—twists they wouldn’t have written, but that the Lord used to draw them closer to Him. Through years of waiting, surprise blessings, and unplanned challenges, Jeremy and his wife learned to hold their plans loosely and trust God’s purposes.You’ll also hear about his unlikely journey from operating heavy machinery to shepherding hearts in vocational ministry. Jeremy shares what it's like to carry the emotional weight of counseling others and how he avoids becoming overwhelmed by constantly placing burdens where they belong—back in the hands of the Lord.This conversation touches on everything from construction sites to counseling centers, from theology degrees to bedtime stories. It’s a look into how a life of faithful service—whether in boots or a Bible—can be used powerfully by God.Keywordstestimony, baptism, family, infertility, ministry, education, vocational ministry, counseling, ACBC, collaborationChapters00:00 Introduction to the Conversation01:15 Jeremy's Testimony and Baptism05:00 Family Life and Infertility Journey09:27 Education and Vocational Background11:37 Transition to Vocational Ministry16:32 Publishing and Counseling Ministry18:55 ACBC Involvement and Training25:47 Navigating Knowledge of Congregants' Lives30:54 Collaboration Between Executive Pastors