Text- Jeremiah 3:15 – “And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.”
The price of ministry is far more than many are willing to pay, but pastors understand that price and are more than willing to pay it. Sometimes, pastoring robs them of quality time with their family; oftentimes, it deprives them of their sleep, puts them in difficult situations etc.
However, not many members are willing to go out of their way for their pastor. Truth is, most Pastors don’t even realize or take this to heart, but their job will be easier and more joy-filled if the people they labor over also reciprocate the same measure of commitment that the Pastor gives them.
For the past few days, this has been the subject of our discussion. We have discussed five of the (at least) seven obligations that believers have to their Pastors – Obedience, service, appreciation, respect, and encouragement. Today, we will discuss the sixth:
6. Giving
No genuine pastor starts out in ministry with the goal to get rich! Everyone that goes into ministry, especially full time, knows that doing ministry is choosing to live a life of sacrifice and of faith, even in the area of finances. No sensible person who wants to be a millionaire will choose Pastoring (genuine pastoring) as a viable career path.
However, this doesn’t mean that Pastors should be poor and have to beg for support. The burden of supporting the Pastor financially should be on those benefiting from his ministry.
Paul said in 1 Corinthians 1:11. “If we have sown spiritual things among you, is it too much if we reap material things from you?”
He went on to affirm in verse 14, “In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.”
It is indeed a great blessing to a pastor when people willingly sacrifice to give to him, and to support him financially.
Galatians 6:6 expresses the obligations of the flock to the pastor thus, “Let him who is taught the Word share all good things with him who teaches.”… The phrase "all good things" includes much more than just money and possessions; it should be applied to everything the Lord has given us!
Prof. Wayne Gruden said, “When we begin to think about all the gifts the Lord has given us, our list of "all good things" begins to get very long indeed.” Beloved, think about all the gifts the Lord has given you, and ensure to share all good things with him who teaches you.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to be selfless in giving to my Pastors, whom you have sent to feed me spiritually. Grant me the grace, from this moment, to share all good things with them in Jesus Name.
Image Credit: giftsmart.com.sg