A Bottle of Bath Wash.
Who doesn’t enjoy the wonderful smell and the softness obtained from using it?
But it seemed precious little payment for the hours on end that I spent learning and perfecting the wedding music chosen for this wedding and the entire weekend my husband and I gave for rehearsal, decorating, flower deliveries and, of course, the wedding itself.
Have you ever felt unappreciated?
It’s easy to fall into the trap. We work hard to do our best and no one notices, maybe they even criticize our hard work. I’ve experienced that before!
But, remember my pastor’s wife, Charlotte, who taught me so much in the beginning? She brought home the truth one day while we were talking. She did it gently by suggesting that I make the time and hard work my gift to the bride and groom.
The truth of the matter is that it was my attitude that needed adjusting.
The big question is, “Who am I serving?”
God’s Word says,
So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31
You see, I had my priorities upside down.
I wasn’t doing all that preparation out of love for the couple (or God). I was doing it for my glory. To receive praise or a few dollars. And when it didn’t pay off, I was upset. No wonder I felt unappreciated.
It was time for an attitude adjustment. I needed a heart transplant. My heart of self-service needed changing out for a heart of service.
As we come to the end of October (Pastor’s Appreciation Month), perhaps some of us are needing a heart transplant. Maybe we feel unappreciated this year. It is possible we feel what was given was too little and too late causing us to wonder if it was all quickly put together at the last minute.
Here are a few ways that I have found to make an attitude adjustment.
Three Steps to Avoid Feeling Unappreciated
Look Up
Look up to God Realize how much He loves me and does for me. Thank Him for all the blessings He has given me even when I don’t deserve it.
Look Around
Look around at all those who are serving with me. This would include associates, widowed pastors/spouses, retired ministers, and their spouse. Send a handwritten card or note expressing your appreciation for them and what they do. Remember that joy comes in giving more than in receiving.
Make Pastor Appreciation Month truly a Pastor’s Appreciation of Others.
Look Back
Remember those who have paved the way for me. Write a note to the pastors and wives in my life that have encouraged me along the way.
Also, don’t forget the leaders above me. In our church, there is a District Superintendent that guides all the churches in our state. I’m sure he would accept a little appreciation, as well.
Next year, try entering the month of appreciation doing these things. I think you will find a greater feeling of joy over your situation.
Feeling Grateful!
Pastor’s Wife (retired) & Chronic Pain Warrior blogs about how to make it through anything by relating her own life experiences to her writing. She is passionate about her love for the Lord and desires to spread that passion to others. She has a great desire to encourage women who are following behind her.
