The care of feeding a pastor

I have some experience being a church pastor, about 38 years. I’ve been so very blessed by most of the folks in my congregations. I’ve also been beaten up a few times.

The sheep in my flocks, for the most part, have been gentle and appreciative of this under-shepherd. But sheep, I’ve discovered the hard way, have teeth and they bite. Through my experiences I’ve gained knowledge and wisdom (I hope) that help me be a more faithful and obedient sheep under the Good Shepherd’s care as well as a faithful and obedient under-shepherd to the flock entrusted to me.

Here’s a few tips for the proper care and feeding of your pastor, the under-shepherd, who God has called, equipped and positioned to lead His church.

Pray for your pastor. We cannot do what we’re called to do apart from God providing everything stand in need of each day. We need your prayers for our inspiration, motivation, safety, purity, protection and everything else for which you would pray for anyone.

We’re human, we’re fallible, we’re limited, but God is willing and able to provide everything we need. Please lift up the needs of your pastor before the throne of God.

Pray for your pastor’s family. Pray for your pastor’s spiritual life. Pray for your pastor’s sermon preparation. And let your pastor know you are praying faithfully. It’s a great encouragement to your pastor and pastor’s family.

Be patient with your pastor. We know the ministry of the church to be a marathon, not a sprint; the race is not always to the swiftest, but to those who stay the course.

You may see something that you believe requires an immediate response, and that does happen, but more often than not a carefully, prayerfully planned strategy ultimately gets the job done.

Remember, your pastor is the leader of a church of volunteers, not employees. The expectations and demands of volunteers and employees are different. Be patient with us, we’re trying to help facilitate great things for the Kingdom that have eternal value… and the best things take time.

In addition, we’re expected to take care of our marriage, our family, our health and our rest. Thanks for your patience.

Participate with your pastor. According to scripture, your pastor’s role is to “equip the saints for ministry.”

Your pastor is not called by God to do everything in the church. It’s not healthy for the church or your pastor if your expectation is that your pastor is paid to do things that, in truth, should be shared ministry.

If you’ve called your pastor to be a leader, don’t be surprised if your pastor expects you to follow. Your pastor’s a pastor, but you’re a minister, a partner. Your pastor’s been gifted in particular ways for that calling, but every Christ follower is Spirit-equipped to serve alongside the pastor and the other brothers and sisters in Christ.

As a pastor, I know what I am, and what I’m not. Like you, I have strengths and weaknesses. Like you, my life has its ups and downs, joys and sorrows. Like you, I make mistakes.

Like you, I need God’s truth and grace to fill me, guide and direct me. Like you, I need others in my life to encourage me and to hold me accountable. I’m a pastor. And I may be more like you than you thought.

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