First Things First

As the young Ken Kamau devoured books on leadership, he became increasingly aware that they were written by and for people who were way ahead of where he was in his life and ministry. He needed to know how one begins to be a leader, not how one continues to lead a large and successful ministry.

He has now written the book he would have wanted to read as a young pastor. His key thesis is that if you want to be a blessing to the kingdom, you have to get the basics right. Before you step into the spotlight of ministry life, you need to work on the backstage of your life. So he writes about learning from mistakes and from successes, learning how to be led as well as how to lead, and building and safeguarding a strong marriage. He also deals with the practical issues involved in building and nurturing a strong support team, even in a small church with few resources.

The book is infused with humour and practical wisdom acquired the hard way, and also with a passion to fulfil the Great Commission. It thus speaks even to those who are not pastors, for we too are called to serve God faithfully, listen to his word, and use the lessons God has been teaching us to reach out to those who need to hear the message of God's love. We too need to live out that message with integrity in our day-to-day lives.