There are a few things that I think we all need to remember in regard to our pastoral staff including senior pastors, worship pastors, youth pastors, childrens pastors, associate pastors, etc...
1. They are human just like you and I. They make mistakes. They are not gods nor should they be treated as gods. Respect them, but be a friend to them. Get to know them! They want friends just like everyone else.
2. Their wives are human just like you and I. They aren't more spiritual than anyone else. They can't do everything by themsevles. They need someone to talk to just like you and I do. Be a friend to them. Get to know them, and make sure that they aren't taking on too much or that you aren't expecting them to take on too much! Let them use their gifts and talents the way God would have them to, not the way you would want them to!
3. They won't do everything just like you would want them to, but they are trying to follow God. Remember that. If you have a suggestion, make it kindly, and if it doesn't happen realize that they have considered it, and it's not what God wants.
I think that we as Christians put our leaders on a pedestal, and it's a hard place to be. No wonder so many ministers fall from the pedestals that we put them on. They aren't above mistakes, they aren't above friends, they aren't above God!
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Comments: 7
Jen, all in all more respect all round in the church would be a great thing. I think we all need to be more leniant with each other and more understanding without forsaking what we believe in.
Gaelyn, I agree... sometimes pastors get more negative letters and comments than they do positive ones. When you enjoy a sermon, don't just tell your spouse or a friend. Let THEM know.
Ellen, absolutely, I agree. That's why I wrote this article!