Granger Smith Excited for Life in Ministry: ‘So Much Joy’
By Movieguide® Contributor
Former country star Granger Smith is sharing his excitement about his new life as a pastor.
“I’m just so excited about it, and I have so much joy just even thinking about it… actually did my first message yesterday…that was the first stage of the new stages. It was at Liberty University, so I went out there and spoke to the students out there in Virginia, and what an incredible experience,” he said.
Smith’s message comes from his personal experience with the Lord.
“I have a different message to give, and it’s a life-giving message,” he said. “It’s one beggar—me—telling another beggar where I found bread…I’m not saying that I’m better than anyone or I am more righteous than anyone by any means, it’s none of that. It’s just saying, ‘Look, I was really hurting. I was at a really bad place. I was at a really dark place…Here’s the steps I took and look what I found look at the treasure that I found.’”
Smith announced his departure from the music industry and calling to serve in ministry in April 2023.
“I am so encouraged and hopeful and excited and joyful about the next chapter, but to a large extent, I have no idea what it will look like,” he said at the time. “I just want to glorify God the best way that I can. I want to learn and grow and serve my local church and allow my pastors to equip and affirm those next steps. Lord willing, I want to be used to help people find their purpose.”
He explained that life as a pastor will look much different than his life as a musician.
“It’s writing books, it’s taking speaking engagements, Lord willing, when the right ones come around,” he said. “It’s attending Seminary, and it’s going to church on Sunday mornings with my family and sitting under the teachings of my pastor.”
Smith recently posted a clip of himself preaching on Instagram. He wrote, “In this crazy chaotic world we live in, there is a place where the waters are still…the grass is always green…and your soul is restored. But it’s not a matter of where. It’s about who.”
Movieguide® previously reported on Smith’s decision to work in ministry:
Country artist Granger Smith performed at his last show on Saturday and shared the “real reason” he’s leaving his music career.
“I took this pic on Saturday—a keepsake from my last show as a touring musician. It’s been such a privilege to claim that job title for so many years!” Smith captioned his post.
The musician announced that he would be leaving the stage to pursue full-time ministry this past spring.
“Let’s be clear,” he continued in the post. “This is not retirement. That would mean I’m quitting work altogether. It’s also not because I’m burned out or unwell or sick or heartbroken or grieving. I am more at peace and more free than any other time of my life. It’s not for any of those reasons.”
“Let me tell you the real reason,” Smith wrote. “It’s the parable that Jesus used in Matthew 13:44.”
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