In this episode, we dive into the vital practice of personal Bible study and meditation for preachers. From the dangers of studying only for sermon prep to the transformative power of God’s Word in our own hearts, we explore how daily discipline in Scripture shapes both character and ministry.

We begin with a warm welcome and introductions, then share a thought-provoking question: “I study the Bible because…” This sparks an honest conversation about our motivations for studying God’s Word.

Bro Rich leads a teaching segment on the foundations of personal study, highlighting why lifelong learning, meditation, and a Spirit-led heart are essential for every preacher. We reflect on key Scriptures including 2 Timothy 2:15, Joshua 1:8, Psalm 1:1–3, and Psalm 119:105.

In our discussion segment, we tackle the practical challenges of consistent study—balancing sermon prep with personal devotion, overcoming distractions, and building habits that stick. Tips include starting with even 10 minutes of quiet time, journaling, choosing a verse to carry through the day, and meditating on Scripture for life and formation, not just information.

We also draw inspiration from Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s reflections on daily meditation, reminding us that the first moments of the day belong to God and set the tone for spiritual growth.

We close with prayer, announcements for our next meeting, and encouragement to share the podcast with others who desire to grow in Christ.

In this mentoring episode, Mike, Malachi, and Micah rally young men around the need for prepared ministry leaders, grounding the conversation in 2 Timothy 2:2. Pastor Carl Herbster shares his call to ministry and unpacks the heart of preaching—Christ-centered, Scripture-rooted, and Spirit-empowered. With practical questions, interactive discussion, and guidance for sermon preparation, this session equips young preachers to grow in both character and skill as they proclaim God’s Word.

On June 29th, 2025, Mike Herbster had the M3 group sit down to hear Pastor Carl Herbster. Pastor Herbster pastored for almost 30 years and has extensive experience in christian education, christian witness in politics, and in leading people spiritually. This challenge highlights his tenacity and motivation from Paul's testimony in Philippians 3.

Dr. John Goetsch was born and raised on a dairy farm near Watertown, Wisconsin and was saved at a youth camp at the age of fifteen. In 1974, he entered full-time evangelism and since that time has conducted thousands of revival meetings in local churches, schools, and camps around the world. In 1996, he became the Executive Vice President of West Coast Baptist College in Lancaster, California, where he is involved in training young people for full-time ministry. Dr. Goetsch has authored several books and continues to preach revivals along with teaching at the college.

In this episode, Dr. Goetsch challenges men attending the M3 forum to find renewal not in self but in the goodness of God. He speaks to the difficulties and challenges of ministry life which can so easily overwhelm the minister. Restoring strength in those moments is key and found only in the instructive nature of Isaiah 40:29-31.

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*Bio taken from https://wcbc.edu/academics/faculty/dr-john-goetsch

The first M3 session was held on June 7, 2025. During the meeting, Mike Herbster shared with the men the vision which will drive this new resource from Southland Christian Ministries.

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Mentoring Men for Ministry (M3) is a community resource for young men preparing for the ministry. The aim of M3 is to emphasize, equip, encourage, empower, exemplify, extend, and energize young men in their call to vocational gospel ministry. There is a tremendous need for biblical, convictional and powerful leaders in church ministry. M3's burden is to provide resources towards that end.
The M3 resource has a two-fold benefit; first, M3 will host a virtual, monthly meeting which will host pastors, evangelists, and ministry leaders from around the world. These meetings will give attendees opportunities to learn, ask questions, and build a biblical ministry philosophy. The sessions will be recorded then made available on the M3 podcast. Second, M3 will serve as a connecting point between aspiring ministry leaders and churches/ministries seeking qualified church leaders. Southland's unique ministry to hundreds of different churches makes the camp staff aware of a plethora of needs across the country. This knowledge has developed into the M3 connection ministry.