We had the good fortune of connecting with Mike Ebron, Jr. and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Mike, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Success is defined different for everyone. Have I arrived fully at success? No. As I reflect on nineteen years of ministry I have accomplished many things. To be honest many things I had no idea were apart of God’s will for my life. I was simply trying my best to obey him. If I had to sum up some key factors behind the quote unquote success it would be consistency, transparency, and relatability. Nineteen years is a long time to work at anything. Through all the ups and down I stayed Consistent. Making me a stable and building that reputation with the community. Transparency is vital. People will support what is real. I put my emotions into what I do. I don’t hide and pretend I’m perfect just being I’m the Apostle. As I’m building the flock I’m growing right along with them. Lastly, relatability is key. I never forget where I came from and I never make people feel like I’m better than them. The more I connect with the community the more they become a family and we share something special. Success is hard to come across but with those key factors it will make it just a little easier to grasp.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My ugly truth is I actually never wanted anything to do with the church. If I’m honest I wanted to go into the adult industry. However after struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts I yielded to the Will of the father. Even when I finally gave in to the Lord’s will I still never had any intentions about Pastoring or becoming an Apostle or anything for that matter. I was comfortable with just praying.
Community and support system matters. As I reflect back on my life the only thing that even comes close to the amount of years I spent in ministry is my education I’m a doctoral level graduate and I spent thirteen years in the military. Nothing else really comes close. People change, jobs changes, paths change yet the Lord was my constant variable in my life. Ministry became my safe heaven. Ministry became a part of my identity. Ministry is my purpose!
I have preached in thirty-nine states, traveled to five countries, been on two billboards, magazines, best selling author, have a prayer album out, and been on five different television networks. I have worked privately with some of the biggest public gospel artists and preachers. Truly it’s an humble honor the things I have been allowed to witness and accomplish. It’s special because I do know the Lord doesn’t give everyone the same assignments or grace.
Being young in ministry often times I felt I had to always prove myself to those who been in ministry longer than me. I didn’t feel received often or if I was they cared about my gift but not me as an individual. It was hard to balance that out being young in ministry. Once again I’m grateful for the mentors that came along in my life and embraced me in such a loving and supportive manner.
I can’t really explain what makes me some different or why God has used me the way he has other than I attempt my very best to obey God always. Even when it doesn’t benefit me I will still obey him. I’m not perfect but I’m very willing. If you were to ask others around me they will say I’m integral, dependable, and I care. I heard plenty times “I never had a leader like you before.” I don’t have favorites, I’m not after money, or platforms. I just simply desire to do my part in the kingdom of God and I have a heart for everyone no matter where you are in the world and what you do.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My favorite person if my beautiful wife Tekeshia and spending a week long trip with her in a perfect world will definitely involved a trip to the beach somewhere. Jacksonville Florida, Miami Florida, and if not Florida then North Carolina, Virginia, Or California. We both love the beach. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore is so peaceful to our minds that’s constantly on the go from work, school, and ministry. Some cookie and cream ice cream is a must. Normally we don’t have a whole lot of time on vacations with our busy schedule but an interest we both have is visiting museums and historical parks. She would say I’m the smart one but she has a high level of intellect as well. Food places would definitely be a seafood restaurant I love crabs and she will definitely get some shrimp.
Sleeping in will probably be something we would do since we are always on the go. Some good tv shows, good Netflix series, and even some pillow talk. We have built this dynamic relationship around strong communication. Talking about goals, likes and dislikes, and we hold each other accountable to personal decisions. Trust it’s not easy at all being in a relationship with me, but truly she doesn’t ever let me slack in any of my commitments without finding a way to help.
I’m the talker, outgoing, and exploring guy and she’s the reserved, introvert, stay home girl but when we come together it’s always something special. We bring out the best in each other and we motivate each other to come from our place of comfort.
Hiking or long walks will definitely be on the list. We haven’t been to a concert together yet so that would be fun to experience together.
I would love to take her to Germany one day. I been there three times in the military and it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been too.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My life is full of some of the world greatest hero’s who have impacted my life in a major way. My parents Mike & Sheryl Ebron have loved and supported me since day one. I was the bad apple of the family, but they were encouraged that I would turn things around and reach for the stars. My mother has been my best friend for most of my adult years and truth is I wouldn’t be the man I am today without her. My mentors Pastor Wilbur’s Best, First Lady Best, Apostle Francina Norman, And Pastor Michael Norman have been consistent pillars in my life that have challenged me, motivated me, and even checked me when needed. The private phone calls, the in person meetings, but most of all the demonstration of how they live inspires me the most. I’m so grateful and blessed to have met these individuals and learn from them. Although there have been many other individuals that played key roles during different seasons of my life truly, my wife Leading Lady Tekeshia has been nothing but an Angel to me that has helped me mature as a man. Her love for me has equipped me for where God was truly trying to take me. I’m a better person, strong man, and an effective leader because of her.
Website: Www.Mikeebron.com
Instagram: Apostle_mike_ebron
Facebook: Mike Ebron
Image Credits
James Wilson