The Greatest Way To Appreciate Your Pastor

October is Pastor Appreciation Month. In Thabiti Anyabwile's latest book What Is A Healthy Church Member he gives what I believe is the best way a church member can show appreciation to their pastor. It is what the Apostle John said he found no greater joy in--seeing believers walking in the truth. It is what I as a pastor long to see and find the most encouragement in my own pastoral ministry. I cannot tell you how much encouragement I have received over the last month by seeing evidences of the grace of God at work in the lives of our church members as the Spirit of God is applying the Word of God to their lives.

So do go out and buy your pastor a card that expresses your appreciation and whatever else God might lead you to do, but remember the most effective way you can appreciate your pastor and encourage him is by following these extremely accurate sentences:

Few things are more discouraging or dishonoring to such men than a congregation inattentive to the Word of God. Faithful men flourish at the fertile reception of the preached Word. They're made all the more bold when their people give ear to the Lord's voice and give evidence of being shaped by it. As church members, we can care for our pastors and teacher and help to prevent unnecessary discouragement and fatigue by cultivating the habit of expositional listening.