Warning: This book should not be read by pastors because: a) it could result in them having a "pity party" because they did not land a congregation where support is given as freely as described in the book; or b) it could result in them overestimating their value because of the wonderful support they are receiving from their congregation.
From cover to cover, this book is filled with a great variety of ideas which can be used to encourage and support your pastor. Don't try to implement all the ideas in the book because: a) your pastor won't have time for ministry if you involve him/her in all the wonderful things described in the book; b) some of the ideas won't fit your setting; in which case you might wish to eliminate certain suggestions or find a creative alternative.
Most pastors today are at or near equal salary with their parishioners. The suggestions in this book are not meant to be "hand outs" in lieu of a good salary or because the pastor deserves special treatment. In fact, if support is given to the pastor only because of the position, the pastor will tend to become even more isolated from the people, and loneliness is one of the biggest issues pastors face today. The author says, "Sincere respect and admiration are one thing, but placing pastors on pedestals is courting disaster, for there is not much room on a pedestal. These are regular folk, called and anointed by God for a particular purpose in this life, just as you are in your own places of service to the King. Allow your pastor to be human" (p. 44).
Why, then, should the pastor be encouraged frequently by the people? Perhaps the best and most important reason is stated toward the conclusion of the book: "And in my opinion, Satan will attack those in leadership more because they are having an impact on people's spiritual lives" (p. 116).
As you get involved in service in the church and ministry to the pastor, the author says, "Be prepared for some real spiritual warfare as you take back the ground the enemy may have gotten, and as you plow new ground of faithfulness and service within your church and community" (p. 102). Because the work of pastors subjects them to constant attacks from Satan, the last thing they need is attacks from their own parishioners.
The author gives many other good reasons throughout the book why the pastor needs the support of the people. A few of those reasons would include: a growing lack of respect for the pastoral position within our society; the stress of public life in which everyone knows everything about the life of the pastor and family; a job that is never done and demands the pastor to be on call all the time; and unrealistic and demanding expectations of the pastor.
As you give creative support to your pastor(s), remember that you must do it with the right attitude. I conclude with several questions that the author asks: "Am I doing this as a demonstration of how much I love my Lord--and my pastor? Or am I doing this so that someone will think I am one incredible person? Remember, it is Almighty God you are wanting to honour in how you support your local pastor(s)" (p. 25).