“Appreciate those who work hard among you, who lead you in the Lord and teach you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:12 NCV

Paul wrote to the church at Thessalonica and said, “Now, brothers and sisters, we ask you to appreciate those who work hard among you, who lead you in the Lord and teach you. Respect them with a very special love because of the work they do” (vv. 12-13 NCV). Consider these twenty-first century statistics: (1) Fifty percent of pastors feel so disheartened that they would exit the ministry if they could, but they don’t know any other way to make a living. (2) Fifty percent of ministers starting out won’t continue five years in the ministry. (3) Only one out of every ten ministers will retire as ministers in some capacity. (4) In America more than 1,700 pastors exited the ministry every month of 2011. There are many reasons why pastors leave the ministry. One reason is inadequate financial support and stress on the family. Paul addressed this: “Let the elders [pastors] who rule well be counted worthy of double honour [financial remuneration], especially those who labour in the word and doctrine. For the scripture says, ‘You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,’ and, ‘The labourer is worthy of his wages’” (1 Timothy 5:17-18 NKJV). Some pastors leave the ministry because they are the target of frequent criticism. Paul addressed this: “Do not receive an accusation against an elder [pastor] except from two or three witnesses” (v. 19 NKJV). So pray for your pastor, and make it a point to show them your appreciation. God will bless you for it.

The Word for You Today is authored by Bob and Debby Gass and published under licence from Celebration Enterprises, Inc. Copyright © 2024