Demonstrating Love Towards God’s Servant

DEMONSTRATING LOVE TOWARDS GOD’S SERVANT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13

Key Verse: “And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)

Supporting Texts: Hebrews 13:7, 17; Galatians 6:6-10; 1 Timothy 5:17-18; Philippians 4:14-19

INTRODUCTION:

God’s servants are His representatives on earth, chosen to feed, guide, and watch over His people. They are not perfect men, but they are divinely appointed vessels through whom God blesses His church. To demonstrate love towards God’s servant is to show gratitude and honour to God Himself.

In every generation, God raises men and women who labour in prayer, teaching, and spiritual oversight for the sake of the flock. Many times, their sacrifices go unseen or unappreciated. When believers show love, support, and honour to their spiritual leaders, they fulfill a divine principle that attracts divine favour and peace.

True love for God’s servant is not merely in words, but in action: through service, obedience, encouragement, and material support. When a church learns to esteem its leaders highly in love, it strengthens spiritual authority, fosters unity, and releases God’s blessings upon the congregation.

1. GOD COMMANDS BELIEVERS TO HONOUR HIS SERVANTS

The act of honouring and loving God’s servants is not optional, it is a scriptural command backed by divine approval.

a) God’s Servants Are His Representatives (2 Corinthians 5:20):

They stand as ambassadors for Christ, speaking and acting under divine authority. To honour them is to honour the One who sent them.

b) Honour Strengthens Spiritual Authority (1 Thessalonians 5:12):

When believers acknowledge and respect spiritual leadership, they empower their leaders to serve more effectively without grief or hindrance.

c) Dishonour Grieves the Holy Spirit (Numbers 12:1-10):

When Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses, they provoked God’s anger. Disrespect towards God’s servant invites divine displeasure.

d) Honour Brings Blessing and Peace (1 Samuel 2:30):

God honours those who honour Him and dishonours those who despise His servants.

Biblical Example: The Shunammite woman honoured Elisha by providing a room and food for him. Her act of love brought fruitfulness into her barren life (2 Kings 4:8-17).

2. WAYS TO DEMONSTRATE LOVE TOWARDS GOD’S SERVANT

Love is expressed through practical actions that reflect care, respect, and support for those who labour over us in the Lord.

a) Through Obedience and Cooperation (Hebrews 13:17):

Submitting to godly instructions shows love and maturity. It makes ministry joyful and fruitful.

b) Through Prayer and Intercession (Ephesians 6:19):

God’s servants face battles and burdens daily. Praying for them sustains their strength and ensures continuous victory.

c) Through Encouragement and Appreciation (Philippians 4:10-13):

A word of encouragement, gratitude, or appreciation can refresh a weary servant of God and strengthen his resolve to serve.

d) Through Generosity and Material Support (Galatians 6:6):

Giving to your pastor or spiritual leader is not charity; it is a seed of honour that yields supernatural harvest.

Biblical Example: The believers in Philippi sent gifts to Apostle Paul even in his imprisonment. Their giving became a sweet aroma before God, and Paul prayed that God would supply all their needs (Philippians 4:14-19).

3. THE BLESSINGS OF LOVING GOD’S SERVANTS

Those who honour and love God’s servants partake of the grace, blessing, and protection that flows from their lives.

a) Access to Divine Grace (Psalm 133:2-3):

The anointing flows from the head to the body. Honour connects you to the oil of grace on your leader.

b) Spiritual Covering and Protection (2 Kings 6:17):

Those under the covering of a true servant of God enjoy divine protection and angelic intervention.

c) Answered Prayers and Increase (Job 42:8-10):

When Job prayed for his friends, his captivity was turned. Honour opens the door to answered prayers.

d) Generational Blessings (Genesis 27:27-29):

Isaac blessed Jacob because of his act of honour. Love towards God’s servant establishes generational favour.

Biblical Example: The widow of Zarephath honoured Elijah with her last meal and experienced supernatural provision throughout the famine (1 Kings 17:8-16).

4. CONSEQUENCES OF DISHONOURING GOD’S SERVANTS

Dishonour is dangerous. It cuts believers off from the flow of divine blessings and exposes them to unnecessary hardship.

a) It Invites Divine Judgment (2 Kings 2:23-24):

The children who mocked Elisha faced immediate destruction. God defends His servants.

b) It Blocks the Flow of Anointing (Mark 6:5-6):

Jesus could not do mighty works in Nazareth because the people despised Him. Familiarity hindered their miracle.

c) It Leads to Spiritual Dryness (Numbers 16:1-35):

Korah and his company rebelled against Moses and were swallowed by the earth. Rebellion brings destruction.

d) It Disconnects from Divine Favour (2 Chronicles 36:16):

Those who mocked the prophets faced captivity. Rejecting God’s servant is rejecting God’s mercy.