Pastors are some of the most wonderful people on the planet. They give of themselves sacrificially often asking nothing in return.
They point us to God. Pastors pray with us about our needs. Pastors counsel us through our life's challenges and fears. Pastors consistently deliver sermons to uplift our souls. Pastors visit us when we are in the hospital. They officiate our funerals and bury our dead. Pastors prayerfully dedicate our babies and baptize our children. Pastors provide moral support and divine guidance through life's transitions.
Yet when Pastors are faced with hard times themselves, how many of us are truly there for them? How easy is it living by faith and letting your salary be dependent upon peoples weekly generosity? It certainly does not sound easy. I don't see many people lining up for that job.
Pastors have to confront numerous challenges in life and ministry. Some of those are internal whereas others are external beyond their control. Internal challenges can be emotional as Pastors are continually giving of themselves on a deep emotional level. If they are not careful Pastors can get so empty emotionally themselves while ministering continually to others that they can have a breakdown. It is extremely important that Pastors daily prayer, have the support of a loving spouse and family, along with be encouraged by their congregation.
Pastors agonize deeply over losing loved ones, seeing church members leave and friends becoming ill. Pastors are people too. They grieve just like the rest of us. Though they appear strong and often bring God's Word to us in challenging times, this does not lessen the challenges they themselves must face and overcome.
Here are 10 things you can do to empower your Pastor:
1. Pray for your Pastor
2. Tell your Pastor you love him or her
3. Offer your time to serve your Pastor in any way possible
4. Give of your finances via tithes and offerings to sustain your Pastor
5. Allow your Pastor vacation time like everyone else
6. Provide your Pastor with time to attend enriching seminars for his/her own development
7. Have a sense of humor and make church life fun
8. Encourage your Pastor by praising him/her for what a great job they are doing
9. Be a blessing to your Pastor's spouse so they too can feel a part of the congregation and celebrated for their sacrifice
10. Surprise your Pastor monthly with some form of appreciation and recognition from the congregation
By doing these things you make life in ministry fun, more bearable and enjoyable. Your Pastor will feel valued and you in turn will be blessed.