Honoring Church Elders and Leaders

Text: 1 Timothy 5:17-18
Theme: Certain church leaders should be honored and honored well.
Key verses: “Elders who leading well should be admired and valued. Double up on the honor shown them; care for them well–especially those constantly and consistently teaching the Word and preaching. For the Scripture agrees, ‘Don’t muzzle the oz while it is treading out your grain,’ and ‘The worker deserves his wages” (v. 17-18).
What God said to me: This is an interesting passage Dwayne. My Son wasn’t honored while on earth. In fact, he made it very clear that you are to see yourselves as servants, not honored guests. Yet, here is Paul–who often abased himself and obviously strived to be a servant to all–here is Paul emphatically teaching the importance of honoring those in leadership in the church. Surely he knew he was incuding himself in that leadership league. The application here is simple: see yourself as nothing more than servant and expect no special treatment as such, but treat others who lead in the church with respect and special honor. Notice too, that he was only speaking of those who lead “well” in the church. Be careful here. Don’t assume you know how to discern who is leading “well” and who is not. Thus, you’d be wise to honor all leaders (unless they have moral or ethical failure). And one more thing: Pay your staff as much as you can. Never be stingy with my money when it comes to taking care of my servants. You honor them, and I will honor you.
What I said to God: Lord, thank You for speaking so clearly to me this morning. What a joy and blessing to meet with You and hear Your still, small voice again! May I never take it for granted. Please show me how I and our church can better honor our pastor and elders. They are all great men of God, and we are blessed to have them. Help me look for ways to let them know they are appreciated.