Expecting the Unexpected: What to Anticipate As a Leader

by J.D. Pearring

Stepping into any leadership position comes with a unique set of challenges. Many we address only as we identify them, others take us by surprise, leaving us confused and often questioning our vision and purpose. In Expecting the Unexpected, JD Pearring provides foresight to a series of challenges likely to come our way in the course of leadership. While difficulties and hard decisions can’t be avoided, JD’s insights will allow us to prepare for these unexpected challenges, and begin recognizing them in advance.

203 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 13, 2024

Reviews

[Betty Goodwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the most thought-provoking book I have read in a long time. I highly recommend this to any Christian who wants to have deeper understanding on what it means "to wait on God". But don't "expect" this book to like reading a college text book - not only does JD back up his statements with direct quotes from the Bible, but he writes as though you and he are having a conversation. He shares many of his experiences and, what I really enjoyed, was his sense of humor in sharing his experiences and his observations on life and people. I really would recommend this book to anyone who have suffered hardships (or still do) and think "why me?", "will I ever have peace?". It won't solve your problems, but maybe, just maybe, it might give you a different perspective on how to "deal" with those difficult issues in your life. God really does have a wonderful plan for your life!

[Byronkeith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of reality and encouragement!

As I read through the chapter titles, and then the chapters themselves, so many struck home with what I have walked through as a minister these last years. It laid out, not only the expectation of hardships to be encountered and overcome, it gave encouragement and Biblical truth on how it was handled in the book of Acts. I have known JD for several years now, and heard him speak on many occasions, one thing has remained true through all of these years, God has given him a passionate heart for the church and church planters. That passion really comes out through the message of this book and I recommend it, wherever you are in your ministry journey.

[Bill Staffieri · Rating 5 out of 5]

JD Pearing employs his wit and experience to highlight why many pastors and ministry leaders struggle and how they can reorient themselves for future success. Disappointment often arises due to unfulfilled expectations, but many of these expectations could have been anticipated. JD takes us through the book of Acts to show what the first church leaders faced and how we should prepare ourselves for similar experiences. In addition to uncovering these challenges, his book offers practical insights and reflective exercises to enhance your leadership skills. As a leader with younger and less experienced staff, I'm thrilled to guide my entire team through this book!

[Kasey White · Rating 5 out of 5]

When braced for the punch of life one can handle it in stride and thrive.

The unexpected can be crippling to our lives and ministry. In truth, wisdom and humor JD preps and normalizes life that can often punch you in the face. When braced for the punch of life one can handle it in stride and thrive.

[Jamie East · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love these nuggets of wisdom from JD and it makes me so proud to get to be a small part in the work that Excel Leadership Network does!

[Kevin Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terrific leadership wisdom!

I’m retired from full time ministry now, but I wish I had this brutally honest and keenly practical wisdom 40 years ago!! JD clearly and succinctly describes real leadership issues and concerns and offers practical direction to face them. Love the book! Love the quotes from all sorts of entertaining sources! Love the practical advice/wisdom/direction at the end of each chapter! Mostly love the down to earth insight into real leadership obstacles and pitfalls! Enjoyable read and compelling!! Thanks JD!

[Tricia Chen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t know what to expect in reading this book, but “Expecting the Unexpected” by JD Pearring doesn’t disappoint! Pearring provides a roadmap for ministry leaders to know that they are on the right track even if they are experiencing delays, fear, discouragement, obscurity, or even deep impact. The lighthearted humor and personal stories shared throughout ensure that the book isn’t a downer even as it tackles tough issues like anxiety, deception, and wounds. I’ve read the book twice now and can’t recommend it highly enough!

[Nathan Hawkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so appreciate JD's humor, humility, insights, and experience. In this accessible, scripturally based, and experientially backed up, book Pearring generously shares from the wisdom that can only be gathered through years of faithful service. Read this book to be encouraged, challenged, and reminded that change is the only constant. You will be better prepared for whatever comes next.