”Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” (I Timothy 5:17, ESV)
For many years October has been designated as Pastor Appreciation Month. Although it is not celebrated worldwide, perhaps it should be. But just as importantly, each of us with a godly, loving pastor have the opportunity to honor our spiritual leader for their investment in our spiritual life.
A PASTOR’S ROLE
What is the role of a pastor? Many of us see the public image, Sunday sermons and midweek Bible studies, but often overlook the heart of the calling. I love the description found in Jeremiah 3:15.
“And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” (ESV)
As I read this verse, the phrase “after my own heart” caught my attention. A true pastor has the same heart as that of the chief Shepherd. Because of that compassionate heart, they are there for us during the good times, the bad times, and the sad times. They rejoice with us in times of joy and comfort us in times of sorrow. They guard truth and protect us from false teaching. They care for us. That’s what a shepherd does.
“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.” (Hebrews 13:17, ESV)
As I think about the spiritual leaders I’ve had in my life, I realize each was uniquely different — high energy, fatherly, outgoing, studious, reserved, laidback. The youngest was in his late twenties and the oldest in his seventies. Some were bi-vocational. One was female. All were called by God. All cared about my soul.
SHOWING APPRECIATION
How can I show my sincere appreciation to my pastor, not only during Pastor Appreciation Month but also all year long?
- I will respect and honor him (II Thessalonians 5:12-13).
- I will support him and the church financially (I Corinthians 9:14).
- I will follow his godly example (Hebrews 13:7).
- I will speak words of affirmation (Ephesians 4:29).
- I will pray for him (II Corinthians 1:11).
PRAYER POINTS
All of the above are important, but the one way we can support our pastor daily is through consistent prayer. Here are a few things you can pray for your pastor and their family.
| An anointed ministry
Boldness to proclaim truth Wisdom and discernment A servant’s heart Steadfastness |
Direction and vision
Integrity of character Protection A strong marriage Physical health |
MY PRAYER
Lord, I thank you for a pastor who loves truth and loves his congregation. I realize that his load is heavy and he grows weary at times. Help me to lift him up in prayer and to express my love and support not just today but throughout the year.
PERSONAL REFLECTION
- What are some ways to show appreciation to my pastor?
- How consistently do I pray for my pastor?
Devotion by Mary Loudermilk
