The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. 1 Timothy 5:17
As we continue the theme of Pastor’s Appreciation Month, the scripture reminds us that leaders in the church, especially those who ‘work hard at preaching and teaching’ are worthy of ‘double honor’ – in context, the Apostle Paul is telling us to show them ‘much honor’ in both relationship and in provision for them AND their families. Your pastor’s families are the unsung heroes of the local church, serving and sacrificing in ways that most church members don’t realize, unless of course, they too have grown up in a pastor’s family. Pastor’s spouses and children are often the ones who are the first to show up and the last to leave, and when there is a need in the church, they are the ones who pay the price of sacrificing their time so that their pastor spouse or parent can minister to the congregation that God has given them. Often feeling left out and like they live in a ‘fishbowl’ – simply trying to maintain a ‘normal’ family life is difficult at best.
Let’s press in and pray for them as we would your own family. When we pray, let’s simply keep in mind, that they are people just like us, with weaknesses just like us, issues just like us, and challenges just like us! Let’s pray knowing that they, like us, are not immune to life struggles and challenges, and neither are their children. Like us, they are not supermen, superwomen, or superchildren – but simply servants, called by God, and given as valuable gifts to our congregations. And let’s pray personally. Each member of their family is unique, so let’s get to know them well enough that we can pray for them by name – keeping in mind who they are as an individual. Getting to know their birthdays and acknowledging them on special occasions. Let’s let them each know that they are individually important to us – because God has called them to our church too.
And one final thought, let’s pray that God will show us ways to honor our pastors and their families tangibly this month – and all year long. Whether it’s a gift card so they can go on a date, or treating them to a family outing, or sharing blessings that God has given to us with them – these are all ways that we can come alongside them, honor them, and bless their lives.
Let’s pray: Father God, thank you for the reminder that we are to give much honor, in Your words, ‘double’ honor to those who labor among us in this important and critical work. Open up our hearts to know our pastor’s family’s needs and help us to keep our eyes and ears open, looking for opportunities to honor them, to serve them, and be a tangible blessing to them. We pray in Jesus name, Amen!
Dion Elmore
Vice President
National Day of Prayer Task Force
Upcoming Events and Resources
This month is PASTOR APPRECIATION MONTH! Take time to show your pastors how much you appreciate them!
In the weeks leading up to the election, we want to highlight this resource from Intercessors For America. Click on the box to request a Vote Your Values Prayer Guide!
About the National Day of Prayer
The National Day of Prayer tradition predates the founding of the United States of America, evidenced by the Continental Congress’ proclamation in 1775 setting aside a day of prayer. In 1952, Congress established an annual day of prayer and, in 1988, that law was amended, designating the National Day of Prayer as the first Thursday in May.
To learn more, or to find a National Day of Prayer event in your community, visit www.NationalDayofPrayer.org.
