Why is it important to recognize and honor those serving in church ministries? Ezra’s Roll Call Reminds Us God Notices Every Servant “ The Levites: the sons of Jeshua and Kadmiel, from the descendants of Hodaviah, 74.” (Ezra 2:40) • Ezra pauses to record seventy-four Levites by name and family line. • Nothing is said of their exploits—only that they showed up. God still made sure they were written into Scripture. • Their inclusion signals that faithful service, however quiet, is seen, valued, and preserved by the Lord. Why Recognition Matters in the Church Family • Affirms God’s design – 1 Corinthians 12:18: “God has arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as He chose.” Recognizing servants agrees with His arrangement. • Fuels encouragement – Hebrews 6:10: “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work…” When we remember workers, we mirror God’s remembrance and refresh weary hearts. • Cultivates peace and unity – 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13: “Acknowledge those who labor among you… esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves.” Esteem defuses jealousy and fosters mutual respect. • Sets an example for future servants – Romans 16 lists more than two dozen coworkers. Each mention quietly invites others to step forward. Practical Ways to Honor Ministry Servants • Verbal gratitude—simple, specific words after a service or study. • Public acknowledgment—brief moments in gatherings, printed notes, ministry spotlights. • Tangible support—meals, childcare, gift cards, resources that ease their load. • Shared responsibility—joining their efforts so no one carries the weight alone (Galatians 6:2). • Consistent prayer—naming them before the Lord, asking for strength and joy (Colossians 4:12-13). The Ultimate Motive: Reflecting Christ’s Own Appreciation • Matthew 10:42: “Whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is My disciple, truly I tell you, he will never lose his reward.” • John 12:26: “If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.” Honoring servants aligns our hearts with Christ, who promises eternal recognition to those who serve in His name. |
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