The calling of God often requires a person to leave behind personal ambitions and embrace a new path. Dag Heward-Mills is a powerful example of this truth. Trained as a medical doctor, he had a promising career in medicine ahead of him. However, he chose to obey the call of God and dedicate his life to full-time ministry. Today, he is one of the most influential pastors in the world, leading a massive church movement that spans multiple continents.
His journey from medicine to ministry is not just a personal testimony but a lesson on faith, sacrifice, and divine calling. This article explores how Dag Heward-Mills transitioned from being a doctor to becoming a global church leader, the challenges he faced, and the impact of his decision.
Hearing the Call of God
While studying medicine at the University of Ghana, Dag Heward-Mills felt a deep conviction that God was calling him into full-time ministry. He did not receive this calling in a dramatic vision or through an angelic visitation—it came through a growing burden for souls and a passion for preaching the Gospel.
During his student years, he started a small Bible study group, gathering a handful of students for prayer and teaching. What began as a simple fellowship quickly grew, attracting more and more people who were hungry for the Word of God.
Many people in his situation might have ignored the call, choosing the stability and financial security of a medical career. But Dag Heward-Mills made a radical decision—he would serve God fully, no matter the cost.
Leaving Medicine for Ministry
After completing his medical studies, he faced a major life decision:
- Would he pursue a successful career as a doctor, or
- Would he step out in faith and commit to full-time ministry?
The decision was not easy. Medicine offered financial stability, prestige, and a well-structured career path. Ministry, on the other hand, was uncertain, full of challenges, and came with no guarantee of success.
However, Dag Heward-Mills chose to follow his calling. He believed that preaching the Gospel and winning souls was of greater eternal value than any personal ambition. With courage and trust in God, he left behind his medical profession and became a full-time pastor.
Overcoming Challenges in Ministry
Leaving behind a medical career to start a church was not an easy transition. The early days of his ministry were filled with difficulties, including:
- Financial struggles—Starting a church with no financial backing was a huge challenge.
- Lack of a church building—His congregation initially met in classrooms and rented spaces.
- Doubt and criticism—Many people questioned his decision, thinking he had wasted his education.
Despite these obstacles, he remained steadfast in prayer, fasting, and evangelism. Through perseverance and faith, the small Bible study group transformed into a growing church movement.
Building a Global Ministry
What began as a small student fellowship has now grown into one of the largest church networks in the world. Through the United Denominations Originating from the Lighthouse Group of Churches (UD-OLGC), Dag Heward-Mills has overseen the planting of thousands of churches across Africa, Europe, the Americas, and Asia.
His ministry is not only focused on pastoring a large congregation but also on:
- Training and sending out pastors through Bible schools.
- Organizing massive evangelistic crusades through the Healing Jesus Campaign.
- Publishing books and resources to equip believers and church leaders worldwide.
Lessons from His Journey
Dag Heward-Mills’ story teaches us several key lessons:
- Obeying God’s Call Requires Sacrifice – Following God sometimes means leaving behind personal dreams.
- Faith is the Foundation of Ministry – Ministry success is not about resources but about trusting God completely.
- Perseverance Brings Growth – Challenges will come, but those who endure will see fruitful results.
- Impact is Greater Than Comfort – A medical career could have benefited some, but a global ministry has changed millions of lives.
Conclusion
The journey of Dag Heward-Mills from medical doctor to global pastor is a testimony of faith, obedience, and divine calling. His story inspires us to prioritize God’s will over personal ambition and trust that when we follow Him, He will use us for greater purposes than we can imagine.