The Word for Today

by Bob and Debby Gass

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‘…[The] high priest is [only] a man…’ Hebrews 5:1 NLT

When it comes to appreciating your pastor, notice four Biblical principles. First, ‘[The] high priest is a man chosen to represent other people in their dealings with God.’ Let’s be clear: your pastor was chosen from among human beings, not angels. Secondly, because he is human, ‘he is able to deal gently with…people because he himself is subject to the same weaknesses.’ (Hebrews 5:2 NLT) The reason your pastor can empathise with you is because he fights many of the same battles you do. He too is tested and carries scars of failure. Thirdly, ‘This is why he has to offer sacrifices for his own sins, as well as for the sins of the people.’ (Hebrews 5:3 NLT) This may come as a shock, but pastors fail too and they need God’s grace. Don’t think because your pastor is a great preacher that he doesn’t struggle with his family, his finances, his fears and his flesh. Actually, he may struggle more, for Satan would rather knock out one general than a hundred foot soldiers. When you fail you can go to your pastor, but who can he go to? Fourthly, ‘No man takes this honour to himself, but he who is called by God…’ (Hebrews 5:4 NKJV) Your pastor didn’t call himself, God called him. So before you criticise him, ask yourself, ‘Have I prayed for him?’ Before you pronounce judgment ask yourself, ‘Is God dealing with him in ways I don’t know?’ Someday you and your children may need your pastor’s prayers and counsel. So don’t tear down today what you need to be strong for you tomorrow.

SoulFood: Titus 1-3, Mark 6:1-13, Ps 150, Pr 11:16-18

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