Theme: Encouragement & Clergy Appreciation
Scriptures: Exodus 17:8–13; 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13
Introduction: The Call to Appreciate Spiritual Leadership
Pastor appreciation is more than a tradition—it is a biblical mandate. In 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13 (NIV), Paul writes:
“Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.”
Our pastors are not just preachers or administrators—they are watchmen over our souls, spiritual guides, and burden-bearers. Their sacrifices often go unnoticed, yet they carry the spiritual weight of the congregation, often at the cost of personal comfort and emotional rest.
I. The Biblical Picture of Clergy Support: Exodus 17:8–13
This passage paints a vivid image of what it means to support God’s servant:
- Moses stood on the hill interceding for Israel during battle.
- When his hands grew tired, Aaron and Hur stood by him, lifting his hands until victory was secured.
Key Lesson: Spiritual leaders need their “Aarons and Hurs” too. They cannot stand alone. Victory for the body often depends on those who will hold up the hands of their spiritual leaders in prayer, in encouragement, and in practical help.
II. Why Pastors Need Encouragement
Being a pastor is not easy:
- Emotional burnout
- Spiritual warfare
- Family sacrifice
- Financial strain
- Loneliness and lack of affirmation
Many consider quitting the ministry, not due to moral failure or doctrinal error, but simply because they feel unseen, unappreciated, and unsupported.
III. Biblical Commands to Support Spiritual Leaders
- 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13 – Acknowledge and honor them in love.
- 1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor.”
- 1 Corinthians 9:14 – “The Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.”
IV. Ways to Show Appreciation
A. Pray for Them Regularly
Lift them up to God. Ask for strength, wisdom, and protection.
B. Encourage Them Personally
A kind word, a note, or a testimony of impact can lift a heavy spirit.
C. Support Them Practically
Volunteer, give generously, lighten their load. Sometimes the greatest ministry is to simply help.
D. Honor Their Family
Their spouse and children share in their burden. Appreciation should extend to them as well.
V. Extending the Principle: Honor and Uplift the Poor
Clergy appreciation teaches us a broader principle: honor those who are overlooked.
- Treat the poor with dignity – Proverbs 22:2 reminds us we are all made by the same God.
- Offer opportunities, not just charity – Galatians 6:10 says we must act when we have opportunity.
- Defend the vulnerable – Stand against injustice (Isaiah 1:17).
- Share what you have – Isaiah 58:7 calls us to feed, clothe, and house those in need.
“A church dispersed can serve more than a church gathered.”
Illustration: Respecting God’s Anointed (2 Kings 2:23–24)
When the youths mocked Elisha, they weren’t just mocking a man—they were dishonoring God’s office. God takes honor seriously. Let us never dishonor those He has set apart for His service.
Conclusion: Hold Them in High Regard
In summary:
- Clergy carry heavy burdens.
- They deserve appreciation, prayer, and practical support.
- The Bible calls us to honor them not just occasionally—but continually.
Let us be their Aarons and Hurs, lifting their hands in times of fatigue. Let us overwhelm them with love, honor, and appreciation—because they watch over our souls.
Let Us Pray
“Lord, thank you for the pastors and spiritual leaders You have placed in our lives. We ask for strength, peace, wisdom, and protection over them. Help us to honor them with our prayers, actions, and words. Let our support empower them to keep standing, to keep preaching, and to keep leading us in truth. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”
