6 Ways Deacons Can Bless Their Pastor

I’ve written a few posts over at chucklawless.com in recent weeks; grateful to Chuck for his inviting me to provide a few “Thursdays With Todd Linn” on his terrific site. This post is similar in content.

A few weeks ago I wrote a post entitled 6 Ways Pastors Can Bless Their Deacons. Today’s post examines the other side of that equation, offering 6 ways deacons can bless their pastor.

1) Encourage Your Pastor

There are many practical ways to encourage your pastor. You can go with him on ministry visits and join him in sharing the gospel. One of the best ways to encourage your pastor is to speak a word of encouragement to him (Proverbs 15:23). If you believe he preached a good message, tell him. You can bless him enormously simply by saying, “Good preaching, today!” You may also tell your pastor you love him and are praying for him. I’ve yet to meet a pastor who felt he was being encouraged too much.

2) Support Your Pastor’s Leadership

Pastors are called by God to oversee the church (1 Timothy 3:1-7; 1 Peter 5:2-3). Their primary role then is to lead while deacons are to serve (1 Timothy 3:8-13). This does not mean deacons are to “serve blindly,” but unless your pastor has engaged in behavior considered unethical, immoral, or illegal, he is worthy of your support as shepherd of God’s flock (1 Peter 5:2).

3) Always Speak Positively Of Your Pastor

You may not always agree with your pastor, but you can always speak positively of him, remembering Paul’s warning against being “double-tongued” (1 Timothy 3:8). When you consistently speak favorably of your pastor, members will know you are committed to church unity. Be sure to share disagreements with your pastor in private (cf. Matthew 18:15) as well as any other concerns you feel he should know about.

4) Offer Your Pastor Good Counsel

Given your godly character (1 Timothy 3:8-13; cf. Acts 6:3), you have much to offer in terms of biblical counsel and life experience. Be sure your pastor knows he can come to you for counsel at any time and that he can always trust you to keep confidences.

5) Support Your Pastor’s Family

There’s something special about a deacon who takes time to talk to the pastor’s wife and children. If you are married, this is a great way to include your wife in deacon ministry (cf. 1 Timothy 3:11). She can support your pastor’s wife by checking on her periodically and making sure she is doing well. If your pastor has children, be sure to greet them warmly when you see them and get to know their hobbies and interests.

6) Pray For Your Pastor

When deacons pray for their pastor, they are blessing their pastor in the greatest way possible. Take time throughout the week to lift up your pastor in prayer, asking God to grace him with wisdom, strength, and encouragement. And bless your pastor periodically by placing your hand upon his shoulder and offering special prayer on his behalf.

Church Leaders: What are some other ways deacons can bless their pastor?