It’s easy for us to see pastors as superhumans, with shoulders broad enough to lean on and hands strong enough to lift up. They always seem to know the right thing to say and the best course of action to take.

As such, it can be hard for us to picture these heroes being discouraged, lonely, or depressed. We forget that, like us, they’re simply human with similar weaknesses and challenges.

In fact, it wouldn’t be implausible to say that the burdens they bear and the challenges they face are even heavier than that of the average person. This assertion isn’t far-fetched as they shoulder numerous responsibilities, both theirs and that of the congregation.

As such, beyond the concern for their family, finances, and health, they also have to care for the people that God has placed in their flock. The weight of these responsibilities can get overwhelming. So, they need all the encouragement they can get.

I’m glad that you’re reading this post. It’s a sign that you love your pastor, and you want to bless him even though you’re not sure how. Just remember, he’s a person with a heart and soul, capable of being affected by words and actions, or the lack of both.

And your encouragement may be exactly what he needs to spur him forward, to give him the strength and grace for the journey ahead.

Tools For Encouragement

Without further ado, let’s look at ways you can encourage your pastor.

#1. Show Honor and Appreciation

Scripture admonishes us to honor the people that God has placed over us.

“Let the elders that rule over well be counter worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.” 1 Timothy 5:17

“Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that much give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.” Hebrews 13:17

You honor your pastors by respecting them, obeying them, and appreciating them. When we speak with them, we must be careful to use words that lift up rather than pull down. You can go out of your way to thank them for their efforts over your lives. The Bible says,

“Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, Sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” Proverbs 16:24

Honor and appreciation. Tell your pastor that his labor isn’t going unnoticed. It encourages him, giving him the strength to keep pushing forward.

#2. Offer Your Substance

Giving is another effective means of encouragement. Everyone loves receiving gifts, big or small, special occasions or not. A gift tells you that you are loved, cared for, and thought of.

Your pastor is no different. By offering your substance, you not only encourage your pastor, but you also fulfill God’s command in scripture.

“Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth all good things.” Galatians 6:6

The apostle Paul speaking on this, also said,

“If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?” I Corinthians 9:11

#3. Lift Intercession

Doesn’t it feel great to know that there’s someone out there who remembers you and prays for you? Who cares about you enough to lift you before God in prayer?

That’s how your pastor would feel if he knew that there were people in his congregation praying for him every so often. Once again, by praying for your pastor, you also obey scripture.

“Remember them which have rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.” Hebrews 13:7

Paul admonishing the brethren, said, “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.” II Thessalonians 3:1-2

#4. Be Active in Church Engagements

Pastors are encouraged when their members are actively involved in the engagement and affairs of the church.

Imagine leading a team of passive, unenthusiastic people. Naturally, you’ll get discouraged sooner or later. But when everyone is actively engaged in the work, excitedly, you’d not tire even after a long day of work.

Likewise, pastors are encouraged when members of their congregation make themselves available for the work of God.

Finally,

Pastors are a huge blessing to us. They guide, teach, and admonish us. And it’d be great to have them do it joyfully.

You can also support pastors and churches around the globe by getting involved here at R3 Ministry Network.