The Kindest Thing You Can Do for Your Preacher August 15, 2016

Recently someone asked me what the kindest thing was that had been done for me as I traveled from church to church. That was easy. Pastors and people have been very gracious and encouraging in every place where we have been privileged to serve, but there is one thing that stands out above the rest.

It costs nothing, and yet it is priceless. It is not tangible, but it brings visible results. It seems somewhat small, but it is an enormous gift.

The kindest thing ever done for me is for someone to love and encourage my wife and children.

Many years ago I heard my pastor say that the nicest thing anyone ever did for him was love his children. I now understand what he meant. The most precious thing I have on earth is my family. They mean more to me than any meeting. When others love the ones you love it is wonderful.

Sometimes on the road there are lonely moments. I have learned when I am missing Tammy and the kids to turn that emotion into prayer. To intercede and ask the Heavenly Father to do what I could not do even if I were with them. When others join with you in prayer for those you love it is so meaningful.

A pastor recently wrote my wife and children a handwritten note after I had been in his church. Because of the distance of the meeting I had flown and was unable to bring them with me. He graciously thanked each of my family for sharing their dad for a few days and supporting the work God had given me to do. That man will never know that the kindest thing he did for me was simply to encourage my family. When others speak a kind word to those you love it is the kindest thing they can ever do for you.

What about your preacher?

Pastors, evangelists, and missionaries carry a great load. Their families do as well. Love the minister’s family. Pray a hedge of protection around them. Speak an encouraging word. Offer a smile. It is an investment in each of their lives and an investment in all of those that their father will help. It is the kindest thing you can do for your preacher.

“And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves…Brethren, pray for us” (1 Thess. 5:12, 13, 25).

Post Author

More from similar topics

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Recent Posts

A MAN LIKE US IN TIMES LIKE OURS, Elijah

A Man Like Us In Times Like Ours

The ruins of the Temple of Pluto, the lord of the underworld in Eleusis. In this small temple pilgrims mimicked Persephone and were symbolically taken to the underworld. At some point the initiates were given a drink containing alcohol, opium, and a substance that was akin to LSD. Small wonder people were later unable to describe what they experienced. Photo by John Buckner

The Sanctuary at Eleusis   

Enjoying the Journey Resources, BIBLE RESOURCES

Enjoying the Journey Resources

fall, fallen christian, failing christian leaders, disappointment

Our Attitude Toward Those Who Fall

8 Comments

  1. Sherri Ray on August 16, 2016 at 9:51 AM

    Thank you!This made me cry.I am a Pastor’s wife.We love our Church Family!Loving and praying for my Family is the best gift we ever receive.May God bless you abundantly.Thankyou.

    • Scott Pauley on August 16, 2016 at 10:25 AM

      God bless you and your family! Thank you for taking time to let me know.

  2. Bethany Comer on August 17, 2016 at 8:32 AM

    Great devotion!

    If only people could realize this very simple truth…. because a person who feels appreciated will also do more than expected.

    • Scott Pauley on August 17, 2016 at 10:33 AM

      Very true. Hope you all are well!

  3. Sandi on September 13, 2016 at 10:51 AM

    I really enjoyed this post. My husband is not in the ministry, but he is in the military, and this resonated with me from that perspective.

    • Scott Pauley on September 13, 2016 at 5:53 PM

      Thanks for reading and taking time to let me know. God bless you and your family!

  4. Moses on October 31, 2016 at 2:15 PM

    Amazing artical. So profound.

    • Scott Pauley on October 31, 2016 at 4:58 PM

      Thank you for taking time to read.

Leave a Comment