InsideOut: What do you get when you go to Starbucks?

Tom Trimble: A grande, two Splenda non-fat wet cappuccino.

IO: What is your favorite breakfast cereal?

TT: Honey Nut Cheerios (It’s good and helps lower cholesterol.)

IO: If you could have one super-hero power, what would it be and why?

TT: I would be able to show people the results of their choices beforehand so they could alter their course.

IO: What Christian artist have you been listening to lately on your iPod?

TT: Brandon Heath is part of a long list of artists on my Mars Hill Chill Playlist.

IO: When did you start playing the piano and singing in front of people?

TT: I started playing the piano at nine years of age and started singing in my early teens.

IO: You just released your fifth album. What’s different about “The Anchor Sessions” compared to the other albums?

TT: It seems the timing was important for this CD. In a tumultuous time we really need an Anchor to keep us from drifting. The messages of faith, hope, truth, and mission are all aspects of that Anchor, Jesus Christ. Also, more of the songs have been field tested, and the album reaches for more of an overall R&B feel.

IO: What tips would you give to a young person who has musical talent and wants to get into music ministry?

TT: You can only fly as high as your character is deep. While you perfect your skills, let your roots go down so there is depth in your ministry.

Then…“humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time” (I Peter 5:6, NKJV).

IO: You’re a recording artist, a drama minister, and a pastor. How do you balance all of these ministries?

TT: A wonderful elder, Pastor Guy Roam, once told me, “Your music will open doors that preaching never will.” He brought peace with that statement. I realized that God had a multi-faceted ministry for me and that I should not fear that. I have always had to prioritize, however, and to know my highest gift, which is being a pastor.

IO: What would you tell someone who feels the call to preach, but has musical talent? How do you decide which one, or do you even have to decide?

TT: I answered much of this question in my previous response. I would only add that I was told, at a young age, that I could not do both. I looked to an elder, C.M. Becton, who was an accomplished pianist and a powerful preacher. Doug Davis was also a balanced example. You don’t have to give up either one. And if you have a call to preach don’t just be a great musician. You can do both. Be your best for the kingdom!