How can we "appreciate those who labor among you" in our church community? Setting the Framework “Now we ask you, brothers, to appreciate those who labor among you, and to acknowledge those who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:12) Paul’s call is simple: see, value, and respond to the people God has placed in front of you. Here are practical, Scripture-anchored ways to do it. Looking with Spiritual Eyes • Identify the laborers – Pastors, elders, deacons (1 Timothy 3:1-13) – Teachers, ministry leaders, volunteers (Romans 16:1-4) – Anyone quietly serving behind the scenes (Colossians 3:23-24) • Recognize their God-given role – “He Himself gave some to be apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry.” (Ephesians 4:11-12) Esteeming Them Highly in Love • Speak honor, not flattery – “Let the elders who lead well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” (1 Timothy 5:17) • Guard their reputation – Refuse gossip (Proverbs 17:9) – Defend them when unfairly criticized (Titus 3:1-2) • Celebrate milestones – Anniversaries of service, ordination dates, ministry achievements Supporting with Tangible Gifts • Provide materially – “The laborer is worthy of his wages.” (1 Timothy 5:18) – Gift cards, meals, love offerings, ministry resources • Offer practical help – Childcare during busy seasons – Home or car repairs – Administrative assistance Following Their Lead with Joy • Obedient cooperation – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account.” (Hebrews 13:17) • Forward-thinking attitude – Seek ways to lighten their workload rather than add to it – Arrive prepared, on time, and willing Encouraging with Life-Giving Words • Personal notes or texts of gratitude • Public testimonies of how their ministry has impacted you • Simple “thank you” moments after services Praying Without Ceasing • Pray for boldness, wisdom, and protection (Ephesians 6:19-20) • Intercede for their families, health, and emotional strength • Enlist others to join a regular prayer chain Protecting Their Rest • Respect days off and vacation time • Limit non-urgent calls or messages • Offer pulpit supply or teaching relief Partnering in Ministry • Share the load of ministry tasks (Acts 6:1-4) • Volunteer before being asked • Bring creative ideas and solutions, not just problems Expressing Hospitality • Invite them for coffee or a meal without an agenda • Include their families in fellowship events • Offer your home for small groups or retreats Living Out What We Learn • Apply their teaching promptly (James 1:22) • Share stories of growth so they can see fruit • Disciple others, multiplying their influence (2 Timothy 2:2) Keeping the Long View • Be consistent—appreciation is not a one-time project • Stay loyal through both victories and setbacks • Remember that honoring God’s servants is ultimately honoring God Himself (Matthew 10:40-42) In all these ways, we turn Paul’s brief exhortation into a lifestyle, reflecting Christ’s own heart for those who pour out their lives in service to His people. |
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