Caring for the Pastor

by Norma J. Goldman

I was blessed in my early Christian life to have a pastor who made eternal investments in me. He taught me the basic Christian disciplines—personal and corporate prayer, Bible study, worship, service, and stewardship. He helped me understand the concept of obedience and that a believer is privileged to obtain guidance from the Holy Spirit.

From this foundational teaching, my knowledge and experience in these areas grew and expanded with practice. In time, I learned that God designated us to be stewards over His world. Most of life relates to our faithfulness as stewards, not just of the world and its resources, but all He provides—our birth and spiritual families, work, gifts, friends, and yes, our pastors.

This responsibility to care and protect God’s shepherd of the local church remains a weakness for most Christians. Scripture tells us, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace.”

If you are privileged to be part of a congregation where God’s Word is preached and exalted, rejoice and give thanks, for thousands of churches around the world do not have a pastor. God has entrusted the pastor to your care. But what does it mean to be a “steward” of a pastor?

Scripture is filled with examples that illustrate the “stewardship of others,” such as parents who love, care, and provide for their children so they, in turn, may live godly, fruitful, and productive lives from childhood to old age. We see an example of this type of stewardship in the commitment of David to his son, Solomon.

Loving Pastors

The scriptural definition of love includes a measure of reverence and respect. You express love by seeking God’s best for your pastor as he lives out his call. Perhaps in his humanity, he doesn’t quite fill the bill for some idea you have about his ministry. But that does not excuse us from our responsibility to pray for him, encourage, support, and follow his leadership as God’s designated under-shepherd.

To love God’s anointed also means to love his family. Don’t expect more of them than you expect of yourself. Recognize that, like you, they have areas of strength and weakness.

Caring for Pastors

There is no question that God requires His church to care for its leaders and to provide generously for their physical needs. Take note of the word generously—the very essence of God the Father. He generously provided redemption, not counting the cost nor sparing His only Son. He generously offers fellowship and favor, both now and for eternity. His generosity dictates that we do the same—not grudgingly, but cheerfully. He makes it clear He loves a cheerful giver.

It is the stewardship role of a church to consider carefully the pastor’s present and future needs—providing an appropriate salary and benefits now while considering his needs in retirement. Free Will Baptist churches are blessed to have the Board of Retirement to help with planning. Learn more about Free Will Baptist retirement options at www.boardofretirement.com

Providing for Pastors

What tools do you need in your work? Time, study materials, support staff, or volunteers? Your pastor requires similar resources to maximize his time and energy. As you pray for him daily, ask God to reveal ways you can provide for his needs and honor God and His kingdom through advances in your pastor’s ministry.

About the Writer: Former magazine editor Norma J. Goldman is a regular contributor to ONE Magazine. The award-winning columnist lives near Nashville, TN. Learn more about thriving in retirement at www.boardofretirement.com.