In what ways can we practically support our church leaders today? Seeing the Heart of 1 Thessalonians 5:12 “Now we ask you, brothers, to acknowledge those who labor among you, who preside over you in the Lord and give you instruction.” Paul singles out three realities about church leaders: they labor, they preside, and they instruct. Each deserves a thoughtful, concrete response from us. Honoring Their Labor • Speak gratitude aloud: a quick “thank you for your work” after a service goes further than we think. • Write notes or texts of appreciation. Specifics (“your sermon on Psalm 23 helped me trust God in my job interview”) show you notice their effort. • Celebrate ministry milestones—ordination anniversaries, birthdays, graduations—with cards, meals, or a brief recognition in the service. Respecting Their Oversight • Hebrews 13:17 reminds, “Obey your leaders and submit to them…”. Support their God-given decisions instead of stirring dissent. • When concerns arise, address them privately, following Matthew 18:15. Public grumbling erodes their ability to lead. • Protect their credibility: shut down gossip kindly but firmly—“Let’s talk to Pastor directly about that.” Fueling Their Instruction • Pray for fresh insight, clarity, and boldness (Ephesians 6:19-20). • Supply tools: gift cards to bookstores, funding for conferences, upgraded software, or a new commentary set. • Give focused attention during teaching—offer eye contact, take notes, and ask follow-up questions that show engagement. Providing Tangible Care • 1 Timothy 5:17-18 teaches, “The elders… are worthy of double honor… ‘The worker is worthy of his wages.’” Budget for fair salary, insurance, and retirement. • Grant regular rest: pulpit supply, prepaid getaways, or congregational agreements that vacations remain interruption-free. • Meet household needs—meals in busy seasons, help with home repairs, babysitting during counseling nights. Partnering in Ministry • Volunteer in areas that stretch them thin—children’s classes, tech booth, visitation teams. • Invite them to delegate; receive assignments with gladness so they can focus on Word and prayer (Acts 6:4). • Share testimonies of fruit; nothing refreshes leaders like seeing God’s impact. Uplifting Their Families • Encourage spouses and children personally: a friendly greeting, age-appropriate gifts, including them in church life. • Respect family time. Avoid late-night calls unless it’s an emergency. • Offer scholarships for camps or retreats so pastoral kids experience the same blessings their parents facilitate for others. Maintaining Accountability with Grace • Leaders need transparency. A trusted board or elder team can ask the hard questions about doctrine, conduct, and finances (1 Timothy 4:16). • Approach accountability as protection, not suspicion—“We’re with you, keeping watch over both you and the gospel.” Continual Prayer Covering • Form prayer circles that lift leaders by name weekly—health, wisdom, courage, joy. • Fast collectively before major decisions, echoing Acts 13:2-3. • Send brief messages: “Prayed Colossians 1:9-12 over you today.” Living the Cycle of Esteem As we honor, respect, and resource our leaders, the church body flourishes, and leaders serve with “joy and not with grief, for that would be of no advantage to you.” (Hebrews 13:17b) |
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