Galatians 6:6
“The one who is taught the word is to share all good things with the one who teaches him.”
This verse speaks to gratitude for pastors and teachers. We have much to be thankful for. Receiving good Bible teaching is one. I heard the good news in high school by going to a youth group. I raised my hand at a concert. I had no clue what I was doing. I wanted to respond to God and that's the response asked for. I had no clue my life was to change.
What a wonderful journey. We all have problems. But as a christian we have this promise in Romans 8:28, "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Our problems seem like unfortunate delays, but are opportunities to sculpt our character. Amazing.
We all have a desire to be loved. Scripture tells us in Christ, there is no greater love. In Him, we have a father, a counselor, a shepherd, "the Lover of our soul", a jealous God (He exclusively wants our hearts), and so on. He is so good, it's hard to believe it's true. Millions are lost and yearn for significance, help, guidance and to be loved. In God, all of that is wrapped up. Many are wrapped up in dangerous religions. They need the good news.
God calls on people to speak the good news. We need to be thankful for their boldness, but also to God who equips and prompts them. There are the pastors who faithfully speak the Word and nourish their churches. It's a difficult job which doesn't pay much. They are to sense the gratitude of their congregations.
God equips and calls evangelists, pastors, teachers and other church workers. Here is what the bible says about them, 'How then are they to call on Him in whom they have not believed? How are they to believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how are they to hear without a preacher? But how are they to preach unless they are sent? Just as it is written: “HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD THINGS!”' (Romans 10:14,15). We are to be grateful for them.
Another way to show our gratitude is to give our tithes to the church. We are required to do so, but our gratitude is mixed in with our obedience. If we don't give, the pastors think they aren't doing a job worth our support. If we have chosen to go to a church, we are to support it. If we think we are to be elsewhere, then go. However, we are to give while there. Jesus says in Luke 10:7, "Stay there, eating and drinking whatever they give you, for the worker deserves his wages. Do not move around from house to house."
Another way to show gratitude is to honor the pastor and church. How do we speak of it? Do we promote it in our conversations? We should. There shouldn't be shame, but pride. We are to be it's sales team. Reference messages in our conversation. Invite others when applicable.
Lord, thank You for our pastors and teachers. Thank You for their efforts and time invested.