Pastor Benny Hinn sat down in a powerful interview with with Pastor Joshua Hayward Mills of First Love Church to discuss the issues every minister faces and the divine principles that prepare leaders to shepherd God’s people effectively.
Central to ministry, Hinn emphasizes, is the ability to repair broken lives. “A true pastor, a true minister,” he says, “is one who restores people.” Beyond nurturing others, Hinn explains that God tests ministers in specific ways to develop their character, faith and leadership. He identifies four of these primary tests of ministry.
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1. The Time Test
“The time test develops your faith,” Hinn explains. “Time purifies motives and attitudes.” He reminds ministers of Abraham, who waited 15 years after God called him to inherit the promised land. Waiting is never easy, but the period of preparation strengthens endurance and builds trust in God’s timing.
2. The Word Test
The word test challenges believers to hold onto God’s promises even when circumstances contradict them. Hinn points to Joseph, who endured years of betrayal, slavery and imprisonment. “The Word of the Lord tried him,” Hinn says, referencing Psalm 105. Despite every obstacle, Joseph maintained faith in God’s promise, ultimately emerging with wisdom, authority and humility. “If you believe your circumstances over God’s word, you will fail,” Hinn warns.
3. The Servants Test
The servants test evaluates faithfulness in serving others before God entrusts greater responsibilities. Hinn uses Elisha as a key example. He served under Elijah before assuming leadership and authority. “You can’t lead anyone until you learn to serve,” Hinn emphasizes. Serving cultivates loyalty, character and spiritual maturity.
4. The Wilderness Test
The wilderness test separates the believer from worldly influences and deepens spiritual understanding. Hinn notes that Moses spent 40 years in the desert and Jesus and John the Baptist faced times of isolation. “Only in the wilderness can you learn the ways of the Spirit,” he says. These seasons teach dependence on God and prepare ministers for greater leadership.
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Hinn ends with a necessary reminder: these tests are not punishments but preparation. They develop character, humility, wisdom and faithfulness. For pastors and leaders today, Hinn’s message is clear: perseverance, service and faith in God’s promises are essential to fulfilling the calling of ministry. By embracing these tests, ministers can grow in both personal character and spiritual effectiveness, leaving a lasting impact on the lives they touch.
Prepared by Charisma Media Staff.
