On February 6th of this year, we had the funeral service for my dad. I was really blessed to have many friends who are church leaders in attendance. One of the two people representing the staff of Fellowship Bible Church was Associate Pastor Matt Farlow.
Matt has been a dear friend for several years and has recently been called to a church in his home state of Texas. When you walk with people through dark and painful times, a bond develops that time and distance cannot separate.
When I think back on Matt’s tenure at FBC and our friendship, there are ten leadership principles that stick out to me about this incredible husband, father, pastor, friend, and leader that I would like to thank him for:
- Matt Identified And Built Relationships With Leaders – Matt was the first staff person who ever reached out to me after my family started attending FBC. I was unassumingly handing out bulletins as a greeter who just wanted to serve. One Sunday, Matt walked up and asked me my story and then took me to lunch to get to know me better.
- Matt Built Platforms For Leaders – After that initial meeting, Matt introduced me to two additional staff members and then asked me to conduct a training session for the entire Hospitality team.
- Matt Was An Encourager – Matt loved people. I had the privilege of baptizing my daughter a few years ago. As part of that process, you say a few words about the person you are baptizing. Matt called me the next day and told me how much my words blessed him. That meant a lot to hear that from another father who you respected.
- Matt Was A Man Of Prayer – Matt walked with God. Matt often served in our prayer room and in the Stephen’s Ministry. Because of this, he inspired you to be a better Christian.
- Matt Possessed A Strong And Proactive Work Ethic – Let’s keep it real. We have all met lazy staff people. Matt always immediately responded when families had a difficult or crisis situation. If it was in his power, Matt met any need that he became aware of without delay.
- Matt Paid The Price Of Preparation – Because he paid the price to be educated, Matt was extremely competent about biblical matters and one of the scholars of our team.
- Matt Had The Fruit Of Kindness – How many grown men have you ever heard described as kind? Not many. Men are usually described in some other manner. Matt is arguably the most genuinely kind man I have ever met.
- Matt Provided Security – Regardless of what you were facing, when Matt walked into a room you just knew the raging tempest of life would be calmed if only for a moment. Matt’s soothing personality always reminded you that Jesus was in control and everything would be fine.
- Matt Was A GREAT Servant – Though well-educated and highly competent, Matt could be seen doing literally anything on a Sunday morning. He never pulled rank. He would do anything to help people better connect to the heart of God.
- Matt Was A GREAT Husband And Father – I got the privilege of often seeing Matt socially as our daughters were cheerleaders together. Matt never missed a game. He deeply loves his wife and daughters. He was a great servant to his family.
Just as I experienced during my father’s funeral, Matt Farlow made many dark days a little brighter for hundreds of people who attend our church. Georgia’s loss is truly a gain for a church in Texas. As much as we hate to lose him, we are deeply thrilled for him.
Just as he expanded the platforms of many leaders, God has now chosen to expand his. His promotion is a BIG win for the Church!
I look forward to staying connected with Matt via Facebook moving forward. It was an absolute privilege serving alongside my friend while I had the opportunity.
Leaders, tell us about the people serving in your church who are currently making a huge impact in your life.
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