In 1 Peter 5:2, we read instructions that God gave to those that we call “pastors.” He said, “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof.” While God certainly calls pastors to lead and feed, He has also called many people to help carry the load of leadership. We see this example unfold very clearly before us when we look at those who physically and figuratively helped carry the load that belonged to Moses.
But Moses’ hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. Exodus 17:12
Here are 15 ways to significantly lighten your pastor’s load rather than add to it:
1. Be sure that you are on the same wavelength as your pastor.
You must strive to discern a pastor’s heart prior to accepting an offer to work for him.
If you serve as an assistant, and a new pastor comes, this is doubly important for both you and him.
2. Demand more of yourself than you do of your pastor.
One of the most helpful things you can do is to manage yourself well. Constantly evaluate how well you do your job.
3. Acknowledge that there is much you may not understand.
4. Learn to understand his weaknesses and not lose respect for him.
5. Don’t just identify problems; provide solutions.
6. Make him look good.
7. Prepare yourself to give to, not demand from him.
8. Be candid with your pastor.
If he asks for details of a situation or what you think about something, he wants to know the truth. Don’t tell him only what you think he wants to hear.
Once a decision is made, it should be carried out as if it is your own decision.
9. Be conscientious of his time.
10. Have an attitude that makes you valuable.
Take on difficult projects.
Volunteer for things not necessarily considered your “area” of ministry
11. Pray for him.
Pray for the details of his responsibilities (i.e. counseling, meetings, etc.).
Pray for his vision and leadership of the church.
Pray for safety for him and his family.
12. Have a spirit of encouragement around him.
He carries a burden that you will only know pieces of; an encouraging word goes a long way.
13. Never apologize for decisions the pastor makes.
When speaking to others use the words we instead of him or they.
Take responsibility for decisions. Don’t pass the buck.
14. Strive to complement the strengths and weaknesses of your pastor.
15. Have faith to follow.
When you would prefer to do something differently than your pastor, have faith that by honoring your pastor, God will honor you and the task that you’ve been given.