How to Show Appreciation for the Shepherd of the Flock.

I was brought in church since birth. Serving the Lord and going to church were foundational pillars. But one of the things ministries sometimes lack is teaching the people to honor their leaders.

No, I’m not talking about Pastors or church leaders who mislead people to give their hard money for lies and falsities; I refer to the God-appointed and spirit lead Pastors. I am talking about honoring your leaders according to the word of God because, as Christians, we must follow God’s word.

In honor of Pastor’s Appreciation Day, we’re going to discuss the importance of honoring our Pastors.

First, what is Pastor’s Appreciation Day?

Pastor’s Appreciation Day (also known as Clergy Appreciation Day) is a time where we honor Pastors, Bishops, Prophets for their labor of love to God’s work. We take a moment to show our appreciation for their dedication, tireless efforts, passion, perseverance to God’s ministry and his people.

This day is celebrated on the second Sunday in October (October 11, 2020). Some ministries may also celebrate Pastor’s Appreciation Day for the entire month of October.

Why should we honor our leaders?

Pastor’s Appreciation Day is biblical. The Bible says in 1 Timothy that we should “first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”

1 Timothy 2:1-2 King James Version

Paul tells us to give double honors to those who govern us in 1 Timothy 5:17 KJV

We must remember that Pastors are human. They bleed red just like us. They have a family and responsibilities outside of the ministry. Therefore our prayers, assistance, and support are still needed. They aren’t immune to our help.

Even Jesus said, give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and give to God what belongs to God (Matthew 20:20-22 KJV). Jesus was instructing His disciples to respect authority and those who govern them. In the Bible, several scriptures remind us to submit ourselves to our leaders and respect governing authorities.

We should honor our Pastors because the scripture says in Matthew 22:14 KJV, “For many are called, but few are chosen.” Jesus said, ” Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;” in Matthew 9:37 KJV, meaning many don’t answer the call of God on their life.

We need to thank God that our leader said yes to Jesus and submitted themselves to God’s plan so that you and I would hear the gospel of Jesus Christ and be saved.

Don’t take that lightly. Our lives were changed because that man and women of God said, yes, Lord, I will follow thee.

How can you honor your leader for Pastor’s Appreciation Day?

It is not too late to do something for your leader for Pastor’s Appreciation Day!

• You can write them a thank you letter or a poem.
• You can sing a song by yourself or with someone.
• You can send a framed photo with yourself and your leader.
• You can send them an encouraging scripture via text message or email.
• You can purchase flowers, chocolates, or something you know they will appreciate.
• You can give a monetary gift.
• If you’re working with a church committee, you can host a celebration dinner or a banquet.
• You can compile a thank you video highlighting the work they have done through the years.
• Most of all, you can pray for your leader because nothing beats prayer!

The ideas are endless when we think about how we can honor our leaders. Make sure you pray first and ask God, “Lord, how can I honor my leaders for Pastor’s Appreciation Month?”

God will then lead you and speak to you on how you can give back to the man or woman of God.

Seek God first for direction and let Him press upon your heart what He wants you to do.

Let’s not shark our responsibilities for honoring our leaders. Take pleasure and joy in taking care of the shepherd of your flock. Look how they treat the President of the United States with armed bodyguards, free food, clothes, and more. Look at the royal treatment the Queen of England receives.

Our Pastors are NOT our God. There is only one God. However, they are God-appointed, and we should honor them according to God’s word and God’s direction.