Latest Book

Perks and Pains of Pastoring

Pastoring is more than a calling—it’s a journey of profound highs and humbling lows. In Perks and Pains of Pastoring, you’ll uncover the untold realities of spiritual leadership, where moments of divine fulfillment often walk hand in hand with deep personal sacrifice.

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About The Author

Pastor Kevin Crider has faithfully served in ministry for nearly 40 years, leading congregations with wisdom, compassion, and unwavering dedication. As the current senior pastor of the First Assembly of God church in LeachvilleArkansas, his leadership is marked by a deep commitment to spiritual truth and pastoral care.

His writing reflects the heart of a shepherd—transparent, scripturally grounded, and rich with real-life insight. In Perks and Pains of Pastoring, Crider draws from decades of experience to illuminate the joys and challenges of ministry, offering encouragement and practical guidance to fellow pastors and church leaders.

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Perks and Pains of Pastoring

Perks and Pains of Pastoring is a candid and spiritually rich guide to the highs and lows of ministry leadership.

Written by Pastor Kevin Crider, this book offers a heartfelt and practical look into the real-life journey of pastoring. Drawing from nearly four decades of experience, it explores the sacred joys of preaching, shepherding, and witnessing transformation—while also confronting the emotional weight of burnout, criticism, loneliness, and spiritual warfare.

Through transparent stories, biblical insight, and actionable wisdom, Perks and Pains of Pastoring equips pastors, ministry leaders, and church members to better understand the calling, endure the challenges, and embrace the eternal reward of faithful service.

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The Joy of Gathering

As a pastor, I have witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact of church: the friendships that turn into lifelines, the worship that renews weary spirits, and the moments of shared prayer that remind us we are never alone. I have also seen the struggles—the barriers that keep people away and the hurts that make returning feel impossible. This book is written with both the joys and challenges in mind, offering practical encouragement and biblical insights for those who may need a gentle nudge, a warm welcome, or a reason to believe.

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Excerpts

“The church isn’t just a building—it’s a sanctuary for weary hearts, a place to find hope, love, and renewal.”

Chapter 1: The Church as God’s Design The Joy of Gathering

“You don’t need to clean up your act before coming to church. God meets us right where we are—in our brokenness—and transforms us through His love.”

Chapter 5: Breaking Barriers to Attendance The Joy of Gathering

“Serving and being served within the church is a beautiful cycle of love and grace—a reflection of Christ’s heart in motion.”

Chapter 4: Serving and Being Served The Joy of Gathering

“When we gather as a church, we participate in heaven’s reality—where unity, worship, and grace collide.”

Chapter 2: The Blessings of Fellowship The Joy of Gathering

“The joy of gathering is not just an experience—it’s a calling.”

—Foreword The Joy of Gathering

. “Ministry is not always easy, but it is always worth it.”

(Foreword/Conclusion) Perks and Pains of Pastoring

“God called you, and He will sustain you.”

(Introduction) Perks and Pains of Pastoring

“Preaching isn’t about eloquence—it’s about God’s power.”

(Chapter 1 – Preaching and Teaching) Perks and Pains of Pastoring

“Even Jesus was betrayed—don’t be surprised when you are too.”

(Chapter 7 – Betrayal and Loss) Perks and Pains of Pastoring

“The joy of gathering is not just an experience—it’s a calling.”

“Faithfulness matters more than immediate results.” (Chapter 4 and 8 – Unexpected Blessings / Reward of Faithfulness)

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