How Can I Encourage My Pastors?

This Brief Guide Shows Church Members How Vital--and Surprisingly Simple--It Is to Support Local Pastors

Though pastors are a tremendous blessing to the body of Christ, they are often the least encouraged in the church. As a result, many feel isolated, stressed, and tempted to leave ministry. How can church members better support the leaders who faithfully shepherd them?

In this short, practical guide, Camryn Zamora helps believers esteem the role of pastors as commanded in Scripture, recognize their role in supporting church leadership, and follow through with simple, intentional acts of service. Reflecting on the gift of pastors, Zamora points to God’s word to demonstrate how church members can show appreciation, including praying for sermon preparation, actively listening each week, rebuking gossip, disagreeing constructively, and more. By empowering church members to protect and support pastors, local churches can help leaders serve joyfully for years to come.

• Brief, Accessible Guide: Practical advice on how to care for pastors and their families in the local church
• Biblical and Applicable: Points to Scripture to explain how church members should regard their pastors and encourage them in their roles
• Part of the 9Marks Church Questions Series: Other titles include Why Should I Join a Church?; How Can I Serve My Church?; and How Can I Love Church Members with Different Politics?

Camryn Zamora is a member of the Evangelical Community Church of Abu Dhabi, where her husband serves as an associate pastor and she oversees the women’s ministry. She and her husband have four children.