By Ron Cook

Ron and his wife Rodetta have been married for 41 years. They have actively served the Lord together in ministry during the entire time and are co-founders of Care for Pastors. Ron ministers to hundreds of pastors annually through mentorship, counseling, and by phone. He has been a Pastor for 40 years and understands the stress of ministry, and wants to share his longevity in ministry with other pastors and help them finish well.

Posted by Ron Cook

Topics: For Pastors

5 Reasons We Appreciate Pastors…And so Should You!

Wednesday, October 11, 2017

Even though Care for Pastors Sunday is over, it is still fitting that we should bring to light some of the reasons we appreciate pastors. We hope this list communicates to pastors and their families how much we value them. And we hope to inspire church members to a greater appreciation for their pastor which will lead to expressions of gratitude during this Pastor Appreciation Month.

1. Pastors love God.

Ministry is the outworking of a relationship devoted to the God they know and trust and it is evident. We appreciate pastors who view ministry as more than a career; they view it is a calling!

2. Pastors are family-focused.

Ministry for a pastor begins at home! In fact, being faithful to their spouse, managing their home well, and training their children in the Lord is a prerequisite for becoming a pastor. We appreciate pastors who prioritize ministry to their family.

3. Pastors genuinely care about the people they shepherd.

Many people are caring toward others, but pastors seem to consistently have an overwhelming concern and care for other people. We appreciate pastors who seemingly cannot stop considering others, expressing interest and offering help.

4. Pastors fulfill a noble position in the church requiring high character.

Read the list of character traits in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 required for a person to be a pastor and you will quickly understand our cause for our admiration. We appreciate pastors who possess a good reputation because of who they are more than because of what they accomplish.

5. Pastors hold fast to God’s Word, the Bible, and teach it to others.

Telling it like it is requires a firm grasp on God’s Word and courage to refute false teachings and heretics. We appreciate pastors who stand on the Bible even when it is the most unpopular thing to do, and who teach its truths and applications throughout life’s settings!

Why do you appreciate pastors? What will you do to express appreciation to your pastor this month? For inspiration and ideas, download our free planning guide here.