They say it's already been a long winter in Canada. Thank God for the heaters that work hard to keep the rooms warm. However, the greater thing in all of this is to keep the fire in our hearts burning for the Lord.
God has been taking me through valleys that I never imagined and showing me things that I never saw.
I understand pastors much better now, and I must apologize for not understanding pastors well enough before.
After all these years in the ministry, God had to send me to be a pastor to a small group of young people for me to understand the bigger price our pastors pay.
How often are we quick to complain and fight our leaders! However, what we do not know is how much of a battle they are in. We take it for granted that pastors are there to serve us and we forget to pray and love them. It makes a difference.
You see, as a member of the church, you think about the church only once in a while during the week. But your pastor is always thinking about you, the church.
Here are four ways how you can help your leader today.
1. Pray for them
No I'm not talking about the 2 minute 'bless him and his family' prayer. Wage war for your pastor. Pray in the spirit for him. Get in the crossfire and fight that darkness that is attacking your leader. Do this everyday, with or without his knowledge.
Don't do it for him to appreciate; do it unto the Lord who placed the leader over you.
2. Serve them
Sometimes actively and otherwise behind the scenes. For some work, you might even need his permission. Don't overstep your role. Otherwise, just do it when you know it's a need. You don't need him to tell you to clean or carry something. Do what you see is necessary. Is there a house visitation that you can do for them? Offer them help consistently. Don't take it for granted that they know you're available to help.
Carry the load, and it's best to do it in the shadow without drawing attention towards yourself. Ponder about that. Be a servant (not a slave) because you belong to Jesus.
3. Understand them
Sometimes they just need to be left alone. Sometimes they need rest. Other times, they need someone to listen to them too. (Don't go gossiping about what you hear. Don't abuse the trust.)
Don't elevate your standard just because they are sharing things with you. Guard your heart from pride. Be that humble armour bearer in the Lord.
4. Encourage them
And finally remember, your leaders need to be encouraged and empowered too. Find ways how you can strengthen your leaders. What books, conferences, retreats, breaks, can you facilitate for their refreshment? Ask God to help you to be an encouragement.
Yes, when your leaders are refreshed in the Lord, it's impossible for you not to be blessed.
Thank you for Standing in the Gap
I want to thank you all for the endless support of prayer and love. I also want to thank those that have made efforts to support Revive Nations financially. We will be enlarging our online resources for you. Next month, we should have more exciting announcements for you.