There is no such thing as genuine ministry without sacrifice. Bishop Dag Heward-Mills has shown through his life and teaching that pastoring is not a profession—it is a life of laying down your own will for the sake of others. He often says that if it costs you nothing, it is not real ministry. This truth has become a foundation of the pastoral training and church culture he has raised.
His journey did not begin with comfort. He walked away from a successful medical career, the applause of men, and worldly security to follow the call of God. That decision alone speaks volumes. But what has followed is an even deeper daily commitment to give everything for the work of the ministry.
The sacrifices are many. Time, privacy, comfort, personal dreams, and financial opportunities have all been placed on the altar. And yet, there is no trace of regret. Instead, there is joy. Because Bishop Dag understands that to serve Christ is to follow Him to the cross—not just in word, but in life.
Teaching Pastors to Embrace the Cross
One of the most powerful things about Bishop Dag’s ministry is how he trains pastors to expect sacrifice. He doesn’t promise an easy road. He doesn’t sugarcoat the cost. Instead, he points to the example of Jesus, who gave His life for the sheep. That is the standard for every true shepherd.
He teaches that pastoring will take your sleep, your energy, your resources, and sometimes your strength. But that is what makes it holy. It is not just what you do on stage—it is what you are willing to give behind the scenes. The pastor who is willing to sacrifice will always be fruitful, because God honors the life that is laid down.
Through books, camps, and practical ministry experience, Bishop Dag instills this mindset into his leaders. He calls them to wake up early, to travel long distances, to preach tirelessly, to follow up members personally, and to serve without expecting earthly rewards. Because that is what love does. And love is what ministry must be built on.
Living for Others, Not for Self
At the heart of Bishop Dag’s message on sacrifice is the call to live for others. He believes that ministry is not a platform to express your gift but a position to pour yourself out for others. The pastor must decrease so that Christ can increase. The pastor must step aside so the sheep can be lifted.
This is not just theology for Bishop Dag—it is how he lives. He travels to preach when he is tired. He writes books during quiet hours. He lays hands on people for hours at crusades. He counsels leaders with patience and visits members without cameras or applause. It is this life of quiet, consistent sacrifice that has made his ministry so deep and far-reaching.
He reminds pastors that the anointing is not for show. It is for service. And that service will cost you. But it will also change lives. And that is the reward—a life lived for others, bringing glory to Jesus.
A Generation Called to Die Daily
Through the example and teachings of Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, a generation of pastors is learning that true ministry is not about promotion—it is about surrender. It is not about convenience—it is about the call. And that call will ask for everything.
But as he often says, you cannot outgive God. Every sacrifice made in love will be honored. Every seed sown in tears will be reaped in joy. And every life laid down for the gospel will rise again in the fruit of souls, churches, and eternal reward.
Bishop Dag continues to show us that pastoring with sacrifice is not a loss—it is a gain. It is the path Jesus walked. And it is the path every true shepherd must follow.