Full Gospel Church / Wayne Parks Ministries

fullgospelchurch.us - wayneparks.com


An Attitude of Gratitude

Introduction

I am so grateful that over the years so many have come to see the pastor as our spiritual leader and the local church as our spiritual sanctuary. It is here that we experience spiritual maturity. It is here that we can rise into wholeness again and again. It is here that we have the support to speak and live out truth. My attitude is one of gratitude to the Lord for you Pastor. Your words of support and encouragement feed my soul—thank you.

Ways to Thank Your Pastor

1. Cut the Criticism

Unlike most workers who are evaluated once or twice a year, pastors are often critiqued weekly after each worship service. It's not unusual to hear people say, “The music was poor or too loud,” “The hymn selection was awful,” or “The sermon was boring.” We would do well to remember that most spiritual leaders work hard to make worship a unique celebration each week.

2. Pray regularly

Ask God to shower your pastor with an abundance of love, hope, joy, faith, peace, power, wisdom, and courage. German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe say’s,

If you treat a person as he is, he will stay as he is; but if you treat him as if he were what he ought to be, he will become what he ought to be and could be.

3. Squelch gossip.

If you hear a negative comment, respond with a positive one. If misinformation is being spread, correct it with the accurate information. Or, if people are gossiping, just walk away. Remember the Bible soundly condemns gossip and careless speech. James 1:26 says, “If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.” And Psalm 34:13 reads, “Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies.”

4. Throw away the measuring stick.

Lay aside personal agendas and preferences. Instead, focus on how your pastor is being used by God to do effective ministry now. By serving your shepherd, you will ensure that he will not only be encouraged but will feel appreciated and continue to minister with enthusiasm and energy.

Remember, the shepherd is someone who stays with you in the bad weather of life, guards you when you are off your guard, restrains your impetuosity, delights in your wholeness, forgives your failures, and does not forsake you when others let you down. In the spirit of Christian love, let’s remember to maintain an attitude of gratitude for the man of God.

Dr. Letitia McPherson
Back to Basics Ministries
(Written for Full Gospel Church. Used by permission.  Edited for general audiences)

more inspirational articles