“Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use – it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:38)
At Care for Pastors, we seek to minister to those who minister. One of the ways we do that is by helping the pastor to navigate through the deep waters of pastoral ministry. We remind pastors about the nature and make-up of the local church. Here is another one of those important reminders about the congregation in each local church.
Every congregation is made up of two types of people: Givers and Takers.
Consider the following characteristics of Givers and Takers:
- Givers are focused on others. Takers are focused on themselves. When dealing with the members of the congregation it is sometimes helpful for the pastor to ask himself, “Are these members givers or takers?” Pastors should give more weight to the comments of givers.
- Givers ask, “How can I contribute?” Takers ask, “What’s in it for me?” This should give you a real clue as to the motivation of an individual.
- Givers bring energy. Takers drain energy. I want to be someone who brings energy into every situation. I sure don’t want to be a drainer.
- Givers are grateful. Takers are greedy. It is also interesting to note the characteristics of the early church. They were glad, generous, grateful and sacrificial and their giving. (Acts 2:41-46)
- Givers are engaged people. Takers are entitled people. We could say this another way. Givers are kingdom-minded. Takers are only concerned with their own agenda.
- Givers serve others. Takers use others. Jesus set the example through servant-leadership.
- Givers are loyal to others. Takers are loyal only to themselves.
- Givers are happy and fulfilled. Takers tend to be miserable and complaining.
- Givers are blessed by God. Takers don’t think about God.
- Givers enjoy life. Takers are too busy blaming others for their failures.
Pastor, you not only want to model the behavior and attitudes of a giver but you want to surround yourself with givers and build a culture of givers in your church.
At Care for Pastors, we are working to establish a culture of givers. Our team gives love, counsel, support, encouragement and guidance to pastors and their families. We offer hope, help, and healing, to those who have been struggling with the grind of ministry. Reach out to us and let us help. You are not alone.
I kindly need your prayers please pray with me.