The Reformed Life

The pastor stands before the congregation each week, delivering God’s Word with conviction, offering counsel to those in need, and leading the church with vision and purpose. From the outside, it can seem as though your pastor is a spiritual superhero. But behind the pulpit and beyond the polished exterior is a human being—a man who wrestles with sin, grows weary, and longs for the same love and care that every member of the church needs.

Too often, churches unintentionally treat their pastor as a detached hired hand, someone to serve them but not necessarily someone they’re called to care for. This mindset not only strains the pastor but also hinders the church from fully living out its call to be the body of Christ.

The Humanity of Your Pastor

Your pastor is first and foremost human. He shares the same weaknesses and struggles common to all of us. Though he has been called by God to shepherd His people, he is not immune to discouragement, fatigue, or temptation. Like Paul, he can say, “Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to fall, and I am not indignant?” (2 Corinthians 11:29).

Many pastors face unrealistic expectations. They are expected to preach stirring sermons, lead effective ministries, visit the sick, counsel the hurting, disciple the flock, and maintain a perfect family—all without faltering. But these expectations ignore the fact that pastors are finite. They have limited time, energy, and emotional capacity.

Further, your pastor is not sinless. He is being sanctified, just like every other believer in the church. He needs the gospel every day to remind him of God’s grace and his standing in Christ. Recognizing your pastor’s humanity doesn’t diminish his role; it helps us approach him with grace, patience, and understanding.

Your Pastor Is a Member of the Body

In addition to being human, your pastor is a member of the church body. While he is called to shepherd and equip the saints for ministry (Ephesians 4:11–12), he is also a fellow sheep in the fold of Christ. As a member of the church, your pastor needs what every Christian needs: care, encouragement, and love from the body of Christ.

Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13, “We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves.” Notice that Paul doesn’t command the church to idolize their leaders or place them on a pedestal. Rather, he calls for love, respect, and peace—a picture of mutual care within the body.

How Churches Can Care for Their Pastor

Fostering a culture of care for your pastor requires intentionality. Here are some practical ways your church can cultivate this mindset:

1. Pray for Your Pastor

Your pastor faces spiritual battles that many in the congregation never see. He intercedes for you; will you intercede for him? Pray for his spiritual health, his family, his physical and emotional well-being, and his wisdom as he leads.

2. Encourage Him Regularly

Pastors often hear complaints or critiques more than they hear encouragement. Make it a habit to express your gratitude for his ministry. A simple note, an encouraging word after a sermon, or a text message can go a long way.

3. Respect His Time

Your pastor has limited time and energy. Be mindful of his schedule and family commitments. Recognize that he cannot say “yes” to everything without neglecting other responsibilities, including his own family.

4. Pray for His Discernment

Your pastor receives countless opinions, preferences, and criticisms on any given issue—ranging from how a ministry is run to the style of music in worship. He must constantly discern how to make decisions that align with God’s Word, serve the church’s mission, and glorify Christ. Recognize that he cannot please everyone and will inevitably upset someone at some point. Instead of assuming your perspective should carry the day, pray for his wisdom and humility as he leads.

As Philippians 2:3–4 reminds us: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.” A humble attitude helps the entire church support the pastor as he seeks to honor Christ and faithfully lead.

5. Provide for His Rest

Pastors often feel guilty taking time off, but rest is essential for long-term ministry. Encourage your pastor to take regular vacations and sabbaticals. Protect his day off and avoid calling or texting him unless it’s an emergency.

6. Invest in His Growth

Your pastor pours himself out each week to teach, disciple, and shepherd others, but he also needs opportunities to be fed and to grow spiritually and professionally. Encourage him to attend conferences, retreats, or workshops where he can learn, be refreshed, and connect with other pastors. Consider setting aside funds in the church budget specifically for these opportunities, ensuring that your pastor’s tank can be filled. Providing space for him to be a learner, not just a teacher, benefits the entire church.

7. Offer Practical Help

Pastors can benefit from practical acts of service. Whether it’s babysitting their kids, providing a meal, or helping with household tasks, small gestures of kindness show that you care about their well-being.

8. Give Grace

Pastors are not perfect. They will make mistakes, have off days, and fall short at times. When this happens, approach them with grace and humility, just as you would want to be treated.

9. Be a Source of Unity, Not Division

Nothing weighs more heavily on a pastor than conflict within the church. Strive to be a peacemaker, and avoid gossip or divisiveness. Your pastor’s joy in ministry is often tied to the unity and health of the church.

Why This Matters

When a church cares for its pastor, it not only strengthens him but also benefits the entire congregation. A healthy pastor is better equipped to shepherd a healthy church. Conversely, when a pastor feels neglected or overburdened, it can lead to burnout, discouragement, and even leaving the ministry.

Caring for your pastor is a tangible way to live out the “one another” commands of Scripture. Love one another (John 13:34). Bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). Encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11). When the church embodies these commands, pastors and congregations thrive together as the body of Christ.

A Final Word

Your pastor is not a detached hireling; he is a human being and a fellow member of the body of Christ. Treat him with the same care and compassion you would extend to any other member of the church. Pray for him, encourage him, and walk alongside him as he seeks to faithfully shepherd the flock.

By fostering a culture of care, you reflect the love of Christ and strengthen the bond between pastor and congregation—a bond that glorifies God and advances His kingdom.

Soli Deo Gloria,

Josh Chambers

If you would like to stay updated on new content, please fill out the brief subscription form below. Thanks for reading!