“Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine. For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer is worthy of his wages.”” - 1 Timothy 5:17-18
This Sunday, October 9th is Pastors Appreciation Sunday, and an amazing opportunity for you and your Church family to show appreciation to the Pastors that God has given to your local congregation! They are the ones that God Himself hand-picked for the critical work of shepherding His people, keeping watch over dozens, hundreds, or even tens of thousands of souls week in and week out – a very difficult task!
Just the ‘equipping of the saints (us) for the work of ministry’ task alone, not to mention the hours of meetings and gatherings, intercession, weddings, funerals, and preparation that Pastors put in each and every week – can all be quite exhausting, and often, thankless. Add onto that the financial challenges that the last three years have brought both to church communities and to their pastors. When giving is down, because people are not attending, cuts are often made to keep the doors open and the programs in place – in seasons like this, our pastors and their families are often the ones who sacrifice most.
“Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.” The word that is translated ‘honor’ here is also translated ‘worth’ or ‘value’. The Apostle Paul then paints the picture for us of not muzzling an ox and paying a laborer their wages, both images given to teach us generosity when it comes to those who shepherd our lives and our souls.
As you pray for leading as to how to show your Pastors appreciation this coming Sunday – be generous and let God use you in a mighty way. Let them know that you truly appreciate them and that you are praying for them. After that, take some practical steps to bless them both financially and practically – whatever the Lord lays on your heart for you to do.
Let’s pray – Father, we pray for our Pastors this week, that you would bless them through us. Bless them with all they need and more, showing them ‘double honor’ through us. Lord, You know their individual needs, so lead us to pour out Your love, joy, peace, and provision to them. Help us to heed your command of honoring them this coming Sunday – and all year long – we pray this in the Mighty Name of Jesus, Amen!
Serving Christ,
Dion Elmore
Vice President, National Day of Prayer Task Force
