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Friday, October 30, 2015

Clergy Appreciation Month: Continuing Our Appreciation



“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy…”  (Philippians 1:3-4 KJV)



From http://orig07.deviantart.net/8701/f/2013/045/3/6/philippians_1_3_by_treybacca-d5uwlpl.jpg



As we come to the end of this month set aside to honor pastors, let us not forget to honor and encourage our pastor and their families the other eleven months of year! We all need to be encouraged and spurred on as we live in this world.  The same is true for our pastors, and perhaps it is even more so.  Pastors seem to incur more than their fair share of criticism; therefore, words of encouragement are precious as diamonds.    

In the New Testament, we can read how Paul frequently encouraged Timothy (see 1 Timothy and 2 Timothy), in his ministry. 


From http://saltandlightbrigade.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/encouragement-week-11.jpg

While Timothy was a young pastor, lacking self-confidence, needing encouragement to fulfill his calling; the same is true for those responding to their call today—no matter how long they have been pastoring. 

In today’s world, being a pastor is a rewarding, challenging call—sadly, it also sometimes is a thankless job.  You will likely never fully know how much your words of encouragement and support means to your pastor. 

Use your imagination in honoring your pastor and their families.  Just be sure to let them know how much you care.  Share a word or two of praise…be creative…it only needs to be heartfelt. 

What have you done personally (or what has your church done) to show appreciation to your pastor(s) during this month?

Please join with me in prayer:

Dear Lord, as we come to the end of this special month, honoring pastors, help us to remember to encourage and affirm them and their families throughout the year.  Give us nudges through the Holy Spirit to encourage our pastor when needed.  We thank you for our shepherd and family that you have sent us.  Protect them from the attacks of Satan and encourage them.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.

From My Heart to Yours,


Kim

2 comments:

  1. As my pastor just lost his father this past week, he and his family will need extra support in the days and weeks to come. I will do my best to encourage both our pastors throughout the year, Kim.
    Love and blessings!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Martha, my heart goes out to your pastor. Yes, he and his family will need extra support in the days and weeks to come, particularly with the holidays coming. My hunch is that you are an encouraging person; I know you've encouraged me!

      Love and blessings!

      Delete

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