Love Your Pastor

It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, Ephesians 4:11

Pastors have a tough job. They get more kicks than kisses. If a pastor is young he lacks experience; if he’s grey-haired he’s too old. If he has five kids he has too many; if he has none he’s setting a bad example. If his wife sings in the choir she’s being forward; if not, she’s not dedicated enough. If he preaches from notes he’s dry; if he’s extemporaneous he’s too shallow. If he spends too much time in his study he’s neglecting his people; if he makes home visits he’s not a good time manager. If he’s attentive to the poor he’s after public approval; if he attends to the wealthy he’s ingratiating. If he suggests improvements he’s a dictator; if he doesn’t he has no vision. If he uses too many illustrations he neglects the Bible; if he doesn’t use enough stories, he’s unclear. If he speaks against wrong he’s legalistic; if he doesn’t he’s a compromiser. If he preaches for an hour he’s windy; less than that, he has nothing to say. If he preaches the truth he’s offensive; if he doesn’t he’s wishy-washy. If he fails to please everybody he’s hurting the church; if he tries to please everybody he has no convictions. If he preaches tithing he’s a money-grabber; if not, he’s failing to develop his people. If he receives a large salary he’s mercenary; if he doesn’t it proves he’s not worth much. If he preaches on a regular basis, people get tired of hearing the same person; if he invites guest preachers he’s shirking his responsibility. Wow! And you thought your pastor had an easy life! How’d you like to change places? Bottom line: love your pastor. Your pastor is who God called to serve you.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to lift up and support my pastor and see my pastor as someone who You have placed to serve those in the congregation. In Jesus’ Name, Amen