10 Things to Know About Jim Sheldon

How did putting God first ministries get started?

Putting God First Ministry infancy began while singing with my first quartet, Solid Rock III. After spending 10 years out of fellowship & service with Jesus, I didn't want to take another wrong path. God answered my prayers with a paraphrase of Proverbs 3:6. "In everything you do put God first; He will direct and crown your efforts with success." I have strived to put God first in every aspect of my life. I learned that God is not concerned, so much, about what we accomplish for Him. What God wants is the most intimate relationship with us as possible this side of Heaven.

God has truly blessed my efforts over the last 18 years. No other name is more fitting then: "Putting God First Ministry".

What is your testimony?

I got saved May 7, 1972 at First Baptist Church of New Orleans. I was 18, graduating from high school.

But, my testimony begins after that. Some early setbacks and bad choices lead to a marriage that God did not ordain. It eventually lead to divorce and brought my whole life crashing down, while serving as Music Minister. I was told to get out of the ministry, I couldn't sing in church anymore.

I spent 10 years in shame, disgrace and out of fellowship with God. After about seven years, I got tired of working odd jobs, with no drive or purpose, I started singing country music. I was able to channel all my pain, sorrow and anger through the songs. It gave me purpose again and helped my shattered self confidence. God used this time to make me a better
communicator on stage. God sent a Godly wife to get back in to His fellowship. I repented, we got married, then we both surrendered our lives totally to Jesus Christ. After almost 20 years of marriage God, this year, has opened the windows of Heaven and raining down blessings upon us.

Who wrote “I Belong to Jesus”?

I wrote "I Belong to Jesus," original title "I Still Belong to Jesus," seven years ago, during a discouraging time. God lead me to Psalm 73. The author was discouraged & stressed by world events then. It helped me see the 'big picture' and refocus onto God's vision for me. Scott Godsey helped with better phrasing and the melody.

What do you love most about your ministry?

It is totally under God's control. Ever since I had Donnie Sumner record "His Grace," God was surely in that, everything else has come unsolicited by me. It began with signing with Homeland Inspiration Group.

Who is your biggest influence?

Glen Payne once told me;"Remember, God gave you the talent and the desire, honor Him with a servant's heart." I've strived to do that. While attending Charles Novell School of Gospel Music five times, I was influenced by Charles Novell, Danny Funderburk, Bill Baise and Ann Downing. The biggest influence to this level as an artist came from Dan Keeton. Under Dan's wings, I refined and honed my vocal production and stage presence.

You used to be a music minister. What was that like?

I enjoyed the years as music minister. I was able to help some young people in the churches I served.

If you could sing to anyone in the world, who would you pick?

I'm always asking God to send me where I'm needed most - where He can do the most through me. There is a lot of unchurched people lost & saved I want to reach. I would love to perform in concert with The Oak Ridge Boys.

What was it like to make a music video?

The music video was a new experience. It helped me to embrace the real truth of the song. I felt free to pour myself into the song.

What was your favorite part of the process?

The outdoors in the open field was my favorite part of the video. It made it easy to get into the mood of the song.

What do you hope to accomplish with your music video?

Spiritually, I hope God will use it to influence as many people as possible to realize how much Jesus loves us & everything is under His control. Professionally, I pray God will expand the reach of Jim Sheldon/Putting God First Ministry.

Watch the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t43KwQMYKcg

More info on Jim can be found at http://www.jimsheldonmusic.com