Well compensated
For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer is worthy of his wages.” 1 Timothy 5:18
Have you every heard someone complaining about how much a pastor or church leader is paid? Maybe you are someone who believes that ministers and church staff choose to serve and that they should be willing to do it for next to nothing. The idea is absurd and quite frankly I find it very offensive when a church expects their pastor to work for little or no pay. I understand when a church is small and can only support a leader for part time work, but the reality is, the pastor and leaders are working for God. It is not only the greatest honor, but it is probably the hardest work out there. It is 24/7 loving and caring for people and let’s face it, some of the people are pretty unlovable.
Paul talks about this problem in today’s scripture. He says you shouldn’t muzzle an ox while it is working. Sounds a little insulting, but it is actually a quote from the old testament. It implies that the ox is free to graze because it need its strength for the work. He goes on to say that the laborer is worthy of his wages. Actually, the verse before that Paul tells Timothy to make sure that he honors the leaders in his church by compensating them well. It is not about riches or wealth, it is about being worthy of the wages. If you work hard at a job in the world, you are paid accordingly. Why should it be any different in the church? If the leadership feels it is too much, they can give back into the church or missions.
My point is, that God wants His laborer to be well cared for and the people of the church should be willing to honor their leaders and make sure all their provisions are met. God is not stingy and doesn’t expect His minsters to work for nothing and we as believers should not be offended if the Pastor is well paid. He represents God to the people of the world, shouldn’t he look good doing it?
Today I want to encourage you to love and bless your pastor, leaders and teachers in your church. If there is anything you can do to make sure they are being well compensated do it. If not, find some way to bless them on your own. Let them know how much you appreciate their life of serving others and pray for them to be bless in whatever they do.
Today’s scripture reading: 1 Timothy 5:17-25
The Daily Dose 