How can we ensure our communities support those dedicated to ministry today? Setting the Scene—Joshua 21:20 “The remaining clans of the Kohathites were allotted cities from the tribe of Ephraim.” • The Levites received no territory of their own; their support came through living space and provisions supplied by the other tribes. • Joshua 21:20 shows the tribe of Ephraim gladly setting aside towns so the Kohathite ministers could serve Israel without distraction. Timeless Principle—Those Who Serve Need Tangible Support • Numbers 18:21—“To the Levites I have given every tithe in Israel as their inheritance…” • Deuteronomy 12:19—“Be careful not to neglect the Levite…” • 1 Corinthians 9:13-14—“Those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” • Galatians 6:6—“The one who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.” Scripture consistently couples spiritual service with material provision. Practical Ways to Provide Modern “Cities” Think of today’s local church as the community that “allots” space and resources: 1. Financial Stability • Establish a clear, generous budget line for pastoral salary, benefits, and continuing education. • Encourage regular, proportionate giving rather than sporadic “love offerings.” 2. Housing & Hospitality • When feasible, assist with adequate housing allowances or facilitate affordable homes near the church. • Offer guest rooms, meals, and vehicles when visiting missionaries or itinerant ministers are in town. 3. Tools for Ministry • Supply up-to-date technology, study resources, and office space so leaders can focus on teaching and shepherding. • Cover conference fees and retreat costs that sharpen their skills and refresh their spirits. 4. Time Off and Rest • Build sabbatical policies into bylaws—modeled after the Levites’ seasons of rotation (1 Chronicles 24). • Protect regular days off and vacation time; insist they are honored, not merely offered. 5. Relational Care • Form prayer teams committed to interceding for leaders daily. • Assign elders or deacons to check in on the emotional and family health of ministers. Cultivating a Culture of Generosity • Teach the doctrine of stewardship regularly (Malachi 3:10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Celebrate testimonies of God’s provision when the church meets needs—fueling more generosity. • Demonstrate transparency in financial reports; clarity builds trust and participation. Guarding Against Neglect • Moses warned, “Do not ignore the Levite” (Deuteronomy 14:27). Neglect creeps in quietly—through budget cuts, unrealistic expectations, or assuming “someone else” will help. • Set annual reviews of compensation and workload, preventing burnout before it begins. Blessings That Flow Both Ways • When ministers are freed from financial strain, they can “devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:4). • A well-cared-for shepherd feeds the flock faithfully, leading to spiritual growth, unity, and mission effectiveness. • Proverbs 11:25 rings true: “He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Communities that honor their ministers experience refreshment in return. Just as Ephraim opened its towns to the Kohathites, every congregation today can open its hands, homes, and hearts—ensuring those set apart for ministry serve with joy and unwavering focus. |
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