SHALETTE ASHMAN
 

Shalette’s Unfiltered Musings

Episode 5 – Respecting the Journey: Earned Titles and Genuine Leadership in the Church.

You know what absolutely grinds my gears? I’m fed up, and I can’t hold it in any longer! It’s about time someone called out those folks who think they can just waltz into a church, claim they’ve turned over a new leaf, and bam! suddenly, they’re evangelists or ministers! Are you kidding me? I mean, let’s give credit where credit is due. I commend anyone who’s had a transformation and decided to change their lives for the better. But that doesn’t automatically qualify you to take up lofty titles and lead a congregation! It’s like walking into a bakery, baking a single muffin, and proclaiming yourself a world-renowned pastry chef. In any other profession, you work your butt off, gaining experience, knowledge, and expertise before you can proudly carry those impressive titles. Teaching, for example, you start as an aspiring educator, and through hard work and dedication, you climb the ladder to become a master teacher. It’s a process of growth and learning, not an instant promotion. But in the church, it seems like there are no prerequisites or qualifications required for these significant roles. It’s like a free-for-all, and it’s embarrassing! It diminishes the credibility of the entire institution. I’m not saying that everyone has to have a degree in theology or religious studies to be involved in the church. But there should be some level of education, training, and demonstrated commitment before someone can claim such influential positions. It’s not about gatekeeping; it’s about maintaining standards and ensuring the spiritual well-being of the congregation. So, to all those “instant ministers,” please take a step back and recognize that respect and authority are earned, not handed out like candy. Embrace the journey of growth, invest in your spiritual education, and gain real experience before you take on those high-ranking roles. Work your way up, and you’ll be a much more effective and credible leader in the long run. The church should be a place of reverence, wisdom, and genuine leadership—not a poppy show of unqualified individuals claiming titles they haven’t earned.