Appreciate those who diligently labor among you.

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Live in peace with one another.

Those who have charge over us in the Lord have definitely answered a higher calling. Too many times people look down on them those in full time ministry as not working in the “real world.” Actually, their leadership skills have to be even greater, for they must lead a corps of volunteers. It seems to me that is rather like herding cats! It takes even more leadership skill to lead volunteers, people who you can’t fire and who don’t depend upon you for a pay check. It’s far easier in business where you can create dependencies and use fear and intimidation!

We thank You for those who serve and have charge over us in You, O Lord; put a hedge of protection around them and their families; give them special wisdom!