I have unashamedly talked about the impact of my pastor’s ministry on my life and destiny. People have always looked forward to meeting him. So, when he came to bless us in Church the other day, it was an opportunity for me to publicly acknowledge his impact on my life. In his words, “you have made me feel great and honoured.” My response was, “you deserve more, Sir!”
Friend, you need to acknowledge the labours of your pastor over you as you make progress in life and destiny. You must never come to a point where you forget such labours. The sin of forgetfulness is one of the greatest sins in the Bible (Deuteronomy 8:10-20, Psalms 103:2). This is why we are admonished to, “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God…” (Hebrews 13:7).
If we are told to remember, then it means that there is every likelihood that we would forget. I think one of the reasons people forget a pastor’s labours over them is because of the nature of the pastoral work. The pastoral ministry is simple yet powerful. It is very practical, yet highly prophetic. In a pastor’s jokes, sometimes, is a prophetic flow for the discerning.
Unlike other ministry gifts, a pastor stays with the sheep and identifies with them. Thus, if care is not taken, we can get familiar with the person and ministry of the local Church pastor. You see him every day; he talks to you, counsels you and plays with you. You see him off-pulpit and in seeming un-anointed settings. But in all, you must see the Grace he carries and the authority he wields in the spirit (Hebrews 13:17).
Sometimes, we love to mention the “big” names that we meet occasionally. No doubt, they make an indelible impact on your life. But what about the pastor that ministers consistently to you? What about the pastor that is always there when the guest or conference speaker is gone? You may not realize it but who you are today and who you would be tomorrow is a result of a sound pastoral ministry, except you are going to the wrong Church.
“Therefore, never be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me, his prisoner…” (2 Timothy 1:8). Don’t be ashamed of your pastor and his ministry. Never get to that point where you cannot proudly talk about him and his ministry. The more you recognize, acknowledge and appreciate your pastor’s ministry, the more the Grace he carries works for you (1 Timothy 5:17). Send a “Thank you” note to your Pastor today. You will succeed!
© ‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria
