Leaders are often seen as the persons who have the most wisdom, the most knowledge, and the most experience in any group setting. One thing that people tend to forget though is that leaders are human, too. They have strengths and weaknesses, and are learning as they walk in the path called life.
Pastors are no different. Although many have theological degrees and seminary trainings, all of them are still humans – imperfect humans who are growing and learning as they lead people in the ways of God.
Would you want to help your pastor become better in his service for the Lord? Here are a few ways you can do that.
1. Treat Your Pastor Like A Friend
Yes, your pastor might be someone who is looking over you (and many others more) to ensure your salvation and walk with God, but keep in mind that he's a person dependent on Christ for his salvation and freedom, too. So instead of seeing him as the "all-knowing" and "spiritually better" person, see him as a friend who needs some encouragement, too.
Be a friend to your pastor. Be open to him when he needs a talk. Pat him on the shoulders or shake his hands and show your appreciation for what he does for you and your church. His work is not easy and is likely not financially profitable, but he's there to serve you. Honour that.
2. Don't Be A Blind Follower
In following a leader, we need to see the good, the bad and the ugly for what they really are. Thus, we can't afford to be blind followers of our pastors.
See your pastor's failings, shortcomings, mistakes, and errors, and don't try to sugarcoat or whitewash them. In line with my earlier point, be a friend to him and honestly but respectfully tell him what is wrong with him.
To be honest, pastors who are sincere in their service and have an authentic desire to become more like Christ will appreciate corrections, suggestions and loving rebukes.
3. Appreciate Their Efforts
Nothing motivates better than seeing your efforts work out the result intended for them. Usually, pastors who experience burnout are those who work hard in hope that people will get closer to God, but find their efforts unrewarding. Truly, that is a bummer.
Appreciate your pastor's efforts. Send him a thank you card. Conduct a signature drive with the intention of getting the whole congregation's appreciation for what your pastor has done. If you want, you can even get a person's testimony regarding how the pastor encouraged or helped him.
This shouldn't be done to puff up the pastor's ego. Rather, it should be done as a conscious means to recognise his often-overlooked efforts to building people up in the fear of God and in the love of Christ.
