Encouraging a leader in your church with a specific word
Church leaders receive many requests, remarks, questions, criticisms. Words of encouragement are rarer. Many end up thinking that their work goes unnoticed. A sincere, specific word can give them fresh breath for weeks. This quest invites you to write such a word to a leader in your church.
What it looks like in your day
Choose the person. The pastor, an elder, a leader in worship, youth, children, welcome, a home group, a treasurer. Think of someone you have benefited from.
Observe what was useful. A message that spoke to you, a courageous decision, some guidance, a prayer, smooth organization, a presence during a trial.
Write a specific word. A few elements:
- The fact. "On Sunday, when you explained that passage, I understood something I had never seen."
- The effect. "It helped me get through a difficult week."
- The gratitude. "Thank you for the time you put into preparing these messages."
- A blessing. "I'm praying that God gives you strength and joy."
Choose the channel. A handwritten card carries special weight. A message or an email is easier. The important thing is to do it.
Keep it sober. Don't mix the encouragement with a request or a criticism. Keep those subjects for another time.
Expect nothing in return. The leader doesn't have to answer.
If you are in a hurry, three lines are enough. If you are shy, writing is ideal. If you have a criticism to voice, do it at another time, with respect. Think also of the leader's family: their spouse and children often carry part of the load in silence. A small word that includes them, or a concrete gesture (a meal, a favor), is often the most appreciated. And don't forget the leaders nobody talks about: those who work behind the scenes, far from the spotlight.
What the Bible says
Paul asks the Thessalonians to recognize those who lead them. To Timothy, he writes:
“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.”
"Worthy of double honour": that includes respect, material support, and recognition. He also writes to the Philippians about Epaphroditus, who risked his life for the work of Christ:
“Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation: Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.”
"Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation": honor given to those who serve is an apostolic instruction. To the Corinthians, he says the same: "acknowledge ye them that are such" (1 Corinthians 16:18).
Pitfalls to avoid
Flattery. An exaggerated compliment rings false. Stay true and specific.
Mixing encouragement and requests. "Thanks for everything, and by the way, could you..." spoils the message.
Waiting until you feel up to it. You think you need a big moment to write. An ordinary word is enough.
Idealizing the leader. They are human, with their own tiredness. Thanking them doesn't mean forgetting their limits.
Doing it only once. Regular encouragement, even if rare, carries more weight than an isolated event.
Today, write a specific word to a leader in your church.