October Is Pastor Appreciation Time

 October is National Clergy Month.
 
  “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine” (Paul said in 1Timothy 5:17 KJV). 

Here are some attributes congregations expect from their pastors, sources say: 

1. Compassionate attitudes toward their congregations 

2. Moral standards — so their characters are unquestionable and followers can trust their decisions and guidance3. Honesty

4. Service — with pure intentions, look beyond self-serving goals and seek to serve others    

5. Ability to maintain confidentiality concerning members’ personal issues and spiritual needs, unless legal issues are at stake

6. Humility — often makes a pastor more approachable, so staff and congregation members aren’t intimidated about asking spiritual questions or seeking counsel. “Humility helps a pastor lead with kindness and gentleness, so his teachings are respected and well-received,” someone said.

VERSES ABOUT QUALIFICATIONS FOR PASTORS: 

“ … [Must be] be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. 

“For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre” (Titus 1:6,7).

“One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)” (1 Timothy 3:4-5).

“Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:3). 

“But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate, holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.” (Titus 1:8-9).

“Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. (1 Timothy 3:6-7). 

“Respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work” (1 Thess. 5:12-13).

According to a Gallup poll, in 2020, 47 percent of Americans said they belonged to a church, synagogue or mosque, down from 50 percent in 2018 and 70 percent in 1999. During 2021, pastors faced dwindling church attendance because of COVID-19.
 
  Pastors need encouragement and thanks. Write a card or letter of thanks to your pastor. 

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