About Me

My name is J.D. Arnold and this is my very first blog post. I thought I would take the initial post to introduce myself and give you a little biographical information.

I was not raised in a Christian home. My mom and dad were divorced when I was really young. Neither of them are believers today. I was raised in Florida and moved to Northwest Arkansas in 1995, three days after I graduated high school. I started working for Wal-Mart and my trainer was a Christian. I thought good people went to heaven. He helped me to see my sin and need for forgiveness. He told me that was only possible through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. On Sept. 6, 1995 I trusted Christ and was gloriously saved.

Not long after that, I felt called to preach. It scared me because I hated to speak in front of people. I am thankful that God gave me the gifts necessary to fulfill His call on my life.

Heather and I have been married for over 15 years. We have two children, Karlee 14, and Eli 12.

Currently I am pastoring in Jane, Missouri. Jane is a town just north of Bentonville, AR in the Southwest corner of Missouri. Emmanuel Baptist Church (EBC) is only 22 years old and I am the fourth pastor. God is really moving in the hearts and lives of people and it is totally by His grace. This past Sunday we had 97 people in attendance which is 25% of the population!

I am also finishing a Masters degree through Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary and will begin doctoral studies at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (Kansas City, MO) in January 2013.

Why Diary of a Wimpy Pastor?


I confess that I can do nothing. I can't build anything, fix a car, etc. I have never changed my own oil and I have never touched a farm animal (I plan on keeping it that way!!). It is safe to say that this city boy is out of place, except that I absolutely love the people of EBC and it is a great joy to serve them!

Special thanks to my daughter Karlee, who designed the template for me!