For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)
The month of October has been designated Pastor Appreciation month. Some people think that all pastors do is preach sermons, but they do so much more.
They are called to cast vision so their congregants can understand where they are going. They are also called to equip the people for the work of ministry; they are counselors, and worship and community leaders. Their work is always motivated by the belief that lives can be changed through a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Pastors are equipped for service by the Lord. But just because their reward comes from the Lord, it does not mean pastors never feel unappreciated. Pastors are human and the pressures of life can weigh heavily upon them. Recently, I heard a message from a pastor who said that his greatest fear was failure. He said he did not want to fail his people in his preaching or counseling or in his ability to help effect growth both spiritually and numerically within the church body.
During his preaching, he told us that God is not the one who had given him a spirit of fear. What God gave him was enough power to overcome the obstacles and feelings of insecurity. Could it be that prayer was what helped him to emerge from that place of darkness? Prayer is a powerful way to show our pastors how much we appreciate them. Prayer done in secret could help do wonders for a pastor who has a very public life.
There are some practical ways to show appreciation as well. You can send your pastor an encouraging note of thanks for the acts of kindness that has been shown to your family. You can thank them for the time they spend comforting family during the illness or death of loved ones. Many pastors like to read and a good book or a gift card for a book or a meal out is another way to show appreciation. Recently, someone told me that a great way to show appreciation is through giving a retreat weekend or even a day at a retreat center. These are refreshing times that pastors need. You don’t have to wait for a particular month; you can show your appreciation at any time. Sometimes just saying “thank you” is enough.
We are praying for all pastors to excel and bring God glory. I know that he appreciates them and so do we. When they live a fearless life, they will not fail.
God bless you!
