By[6] “Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches.” — Galatians 6:6 (NKJV)
Many people see pastors as lazy people who work thirty minutes each week by preaching. And because of that, hardly will you see an average believer putting up efforts to honour his pastor willingly. But I’m a minister, and I can tell you that pastoring isn’t easy. People care less about a minister’s labour in prayer for the ministry, his family, studying the Word, managing teams, overseeing projects and counselling individuals every single week. They only think of drawing spiritual fruits from the minister without giving back to the Lord and blessing him. Some even complain in their hearts before giving offerings. Deuteronomy 25:4 (NKJV) says,
“You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain.”
That means when you fail to feed the one who keeps labouring for you, you suffocate him. And to God, it’s not just wrong but also a sin. Paul knew these things. That’s why he said in 1 Corinthians 9:13-15 (NKJV) that,
[13] Do you not know that those who minister the holy things eat of the things of the temple, and those who serve at the altar partake of the offerings of the altar? [14] Even so the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel. [15] “But I have used none of these things, nor have I written these things that it should be done so to me; for it would be better for me to die than that anyone should make my boasting void.”
Paul didn’t use his privileges as a minister because he didn’t want people to say they were taking care of him. However, dear friend, apostle Paul is one person, and your pastor is another.
Just as you expect the company you work for to pay you at the end of each month, honour your pastor willingly from your pocket. He is your teacher and instructor in God’s house. If he stops what he’s doing, your life will be in danger because when the shepherd is stricken, the sheep will scatter (see Matthew 26:31). Your pastor is not a beggar. He has God’s blessing upon his life. So when you honour him willingly, you’re doing it for your own good – to partake in the blessing of God. Be wise and obey God’s principles.
You’re a blessing.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for giving me a shepherd in Christ who’s responsible for helping me grow in You. Bless me and help me to honour him willingly. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2024 – 115
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