Pastor, know how your people are doing.
One of the clearest ways we care for people is by staying aware of what’s going on in their lives. Loving the people by serving among them is one fo the most powerful tools you have in pastoral ministry. Checking in, praying, serving, helping, and praying for the flock keeps you in a place of being ready for every good work.
Proverbs 27:23 (NKJV) “Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, And attend to your herds;”
It’s impossible to shepherd people well from a distance. I mean, it could also be said it’s impossible to shepherd people at all from a distance. It’s important to regularly check in with those the Lord has given you to serve. This will prevent you from making big mistakes, but also from assuming anything. After you reach out first, follow up, ask questions, return your voicemails, and check in when you don’t see someone for a while. A good shepherd knows what’s happening in the lives of the people God has entrusted to him.
We’re not just called to respond to needs but to watch over souls. If we want to know how people are doing spiritually, emotionally, physically, and relationally, we have to intentionally remain close and open to the Holy Spirit in serving them. and engaged. Use the tools available to stay connected but don’t let the tools replace the heartfelt ministry that is needed in the Church.
Acts 20:28 (NKJV) “Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.”
The people you’re pastoring belong to Jesus. He purchased them with His own blood. That should shape how seriously we take this important calling to care.
Ezekiel 34:1–2 (NKJV) “And the word of the Lord came to me, saying, ‘Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel… Woe to the shepherds of Israel who feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flocks?’”
Pastor, your job is not to feed yourself first. Know your people. Feed them. Pray for them. Pursue them. Be the kind of shepherd who reflects the heart of Jesus in how you follow up, stay aware, and care for His flock in His agape love.
Adapted from the book, Sure and Steady by Pastor Ed Taylor. Chapter 18
