Listening for God in the Wilderness | David Swanson
The Spirit of Wisdom
At Leighton Ford Ministries, we mentor a new generation of missional leaders who serve thriving congregations for the sake of the Gospel. We believe healthy ministry begins with spiritually formed leaders who build communities grounded in faith, clarity, and humility.
Through our multi-year church partnerships, we walk alongside congregations in seasons of discernment using listening, research, prayer, and coaching. Together, we help leaders develop ministry roadmaps that guide their churches into their next faithful season.
This week, LFM Vice President Rich Hurst is leading listening sessions with a church in Charlotte, North Carolina as part of their visioning process. We invite you to pray with us using Isaiah 11:2, “The Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord.”
Click here to explore how your ministry or organization can partner with LFM.
It Starts in the Wilderness
This week’s Sunday Extra features David Swanson, pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando and longtime partner of Kevin Ford. His congregation has partnered with LFM twice through extended mentoring relationships.
During this Advent season, David reflects on Luke 3:1 to 6 and the story of John the Baptist. The passage reminds us that God does not begin His work in places of comfort or prominence, but among hearts willing to listen. God comes into the wilderness of our lives, into dry places where waiting shapes faith and hope grows stronger.
We invite you to pray for First Presbyterian Church of Orlando as they prepare to celebrate their 150th anniversary on March 6 to 8, 2026.
Let us listen together as we prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming.
