Ministry is not an easy path. It requires sacrifice, endurance, and total commitment to God’s calling. Many people enter ministry expecting comfort, but Dag Heward-Mills teaches that true ministry requires giving up personal desires to fully serve God.
His teachings on sacrifice and dedication have inspired pastors, evangelists, and church leaders to serve selflessly and remain faithful to their calling. His own life is a testament to this principle—having given up a promising medical career to follow God’s call into full-time ministry.
The Biblical Foundation of Sacrifice in Ministry
The Bible is filled with examples of men and women who sacrificed everything to follow God. Abraham left his homeland, Moses gave up his royal position, and Paul endured suffering to spread the Gospel.
Dag Heward-Mills teaches that anyone who wants to make an impact in ministry must be willing to sacrifice. He often refers to Luke 9:23, where Jesus says:
“If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.”
His teachings emphasize that sacrifice is not a loss—it is an investment in eternity.
Personal Sacrifice in the Life of Dag Heward-Mills
Dag Heward-Mills has demonstrated sacrifice in his own life and ministry. He left his medical career to become a pastor, choosing to serve in full-time ministry despite the challenges.
He also committed to:
- Planting churches in difficult locations, even in places with no resources.
- Traveling tirelessly to preach the Gospel, sometimes at great personal cost.
- Funding church projects and missionary work, often making personal financial sacrifices.
His example has inspired many pastors and leaders to dedicate their lives fully to God’s work, regardless of challenges.
Sacrifice as the Key to True Ministry Growth
Many people desire success in ministry but are unwilling to pay the price. Dag Heward-Mills teaches that churches and ministries grow when leaders:
- Give their time, energy, and resources to God’s work.
- Put God’s mission above personal comfort and convenience.
- Remain faithful even when facing hardships.
His books, such as “Sacrifice and Ministry” and “Losing, Suffering, Sacrificing, and Dying,” encourage believers to embrace sacrifice as part of their spiritual journey.
The Rewards of a Life of Sacrifice
Although sacrifice is difficult, God rewards those who are faithful. Dag Heward-Mills teaches that those who give up personal gain for the sake of the Gospel will receive both earthly and eternal rewards.
His teachings highlight the promises of Mark 10:29-30, where Jesus assures His disciples that those who sacrifice for the Gospel will receive a hundredfold reward.
Conclusion
Dag Heward-Mills’ teachings on sacrifice in ministry have shaped the lives of thousands of pastors, evangelists, and missionaries. His message is clear: true ministry requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to put God’s Kingdom above personal desires.
His life and teachings continue to inspire a new generation of ministers who are ready to serve God wholeheartedly, no matter the cost.