Seven years ago today, I was ordained as the Senior Pastor of Slavic Baptist Church in New Hampshire. I thank God for a privilege to serve Him and His church. This is the highest honor that God gave me in my life. Throughout my life, I have worked in small companies, the corporate world, as a consultant, and as an Adjunct Professor at Southern New Hampshire University, teaching graduate-level computer science courses. Despite these different experiences, I believe that being a pastor is the hardest job I’ve ever had.

The stress, pressure, and criticism are immense. Everyone watches you and your family, there are no vacations, no salary, and no bonuses. Late nights are spent counseling, day time visiting hospitals, officiating weddings and funerals, and worrying about Sunday services. There is the constant need to prepare for the next sermon, face spiritual attacks, and handle discouragements and disappointments. When others enjoy holidays like Christmas or Easter, pastors work the hardest. People struggling in their marriage, sin, life threatening diseases, asking you questions that you don’t know the answers.

Am I complaining? No. Jesus has done so much for me, and this is the least I can do for Him and His body. However, the next time you feel inclined to criticize your ministers, pray for them first. Speak to them with love, share their burden for the church, and you will see how God can use you to be a blessing to them and their family.

There’s a reason why thousands of pastors quit their ministry every year, that’s why they need you to pray for them and support them.