April 1, 2012

Love Your Pastor

“And now, friends, we ask you to honor those leaders who work so hard for you, who have been given the responsibility of urging and guiding you along in your obedience. Overwhelm them with appreciation and love! Get along among yourselves, each of you doing your part” 1 Thessalonians 5:12‑13 (MSG).

The Apostle Paul says that we hold the key to helping our pastor be happier, healthier, and more effective. Here are some suggestions that will help us in our church begin demonstrating care of our pastor.

Pastors after God’s Own Heart Are under Pressure.

Burnout is a major crisis facing the church today. We expect our pastor to be a biblical scholar, powerful preacher, sensitive counselor, successful manager, and effective fund‑raiser. Our pastor works 60‑70 hours a week to meet all of the demands that are placed upon him, and yet he often feels that he is falling behind in ministry and in life:

• 80% of pastors say ministry negatively affects their family

• 70% do not have a close friend

• 60% are in some form of crisis

• 50% struggle in their relationship with God

• 400 pastors leave ministry weekly in the U.S.

Support and Encourage your Pastor.

• Never say negative things about your pastor or the church in front of your family or others.

• Pay our pastor as well as we possibly can! Overwhelm him with generosity!

• Remember the birthdays and wedding anniversary of our pastor and family.

• Congratulate, show appreciation and give love to our pastor.

• Allow members of our pastor’s family to be themselves. Love them for who they are.

• Protect the privacy of our pastor and family and their time together.

• Be aware of any special needs of our pastor’s family. Be especially sensitive around major holidays like Christmas.

Support Our Pastor’s Ministry.

• Take your place in the life of our church! Discover your spiritual gift and use it.

• Tell people about your church. Invite them to worship and introduce them to your pastor.

• Take an active part in at least one ministry of the church, giving help and/or leadership.

• Share Christ with your family, neighbors and friends.

• Be teachable – open to new thoughts and ideas.

Pray For Our Pastor.

• Pray daily for our pastor and family!

• Pray for insights in how to be most effective in caring for our pastor and family. God will lead you if you are open!

• Be diligent in offering care to our pastor and family.

• Ask, ask, and ask again – “Pastor, how can I help you?”