How can we support our church leaders as seen in Nehemiah 12:3? Setting the Scene “ ‘Shecaniah, Rehum, Meremoth, Iddo, Ginnethon, Abijah,’ ” (Nehemiah 12:3). Nehemiah pauses to record six priests by name. The Holy Spirit preserves this short line to show that faithful leaders matter to God—and should matter to us. What We Learn from a List of Names • God notices leaders individually, not as faceless functionaries. • Public recognition of their service is appropriate and biblical. • Their names are woven into the narrative of restoration, highlighting how essential spiritual leadership is to any work God blesses. Why Our Support Matters Hebrews 13:17 commands, “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls.” When leaders thrive, the body thrives (Ephesians 4:11-13). Under-supported leaders, like neglected walls, eventually crumble. Practical Ways to Support Church Leaders 1. Acknowledge Them by Name • Speak their names in conversation, not just their titles (Romans 16:3-4). • Express gratitude aloud and in writing. 2. Respect Their God-Given Role • Follow their biblical direction (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). • Refrain from gossip; defend their character when needed (Titus 3:2). 3. Share the Load • Volunteer for ministries they oversee (Nehemiah 4:6). • Offer specific skills—administration, teaching, maintenance—so they can focus on shepherding (Acts 6:3-4). 4. Provide Material Support • Give faithfully so leaders are not burdened with lack (Galatians 6:6; 1 Timothy 5:17-18). • Consider occasional personal gifts that encourage them and their families. 5. Pray Consistently • Lift them by name, just as Nehemiah listed priests by name (Colossians 4:3-4). • Pray for wisdom, protection, and joy in ministry. 6. Encourage and Refresh • Celebrate milestones—ordination anniversaries, answered prayers, baptisms. • Invite them for a meal or coffee; listen more than you speak (Proverbs 18:13). 7. Guard Unity • Address concerns directly and privately first (Matthew 18:15). • Promote peace in the congregation so leaders can shepherd, not referee (Ephesians 4:3). Living It Out A single verse of names reminds us heaven’s records are personal. When we honor, assist, and stand with our pastors, elders, and ministry heads, we join Nehemiah in ensuring God’s servants are remembered—not merely for their titles, but for their faithfulness and the people who helped them flourish. |
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