A shepherd, quite simply, is one who tends to his sheep. The shepherd guides, directs, defends, and feeds his flock. His existence is wrapped up in making sure they are where they’re supposed to be—and that they’re kept alive.

Traditionally, being a shepherd could be a lonely and even dangerous job. Young sheep, in particular, are vulnerable targets for predators.

This Pastor Appreciation Month, I’ve been considering how God’s Word draws parallels between pastors and shepherds. Particularly, I’ve been struck by Acts 20:28–30 and 1 Peter 5:2–4. There are a few things we learn from these Biblical passages:

Pastors are called by the Holy Spirit to shepherd their flock.

Acts 20:28 says, “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” (NKJV). As pastors, we do not choose our church like a businessperson chooses their next job. We are called by the Holy Spirit, a truth that we must not take lightly.

Pastoring a church is a great responsibility.

Did you catch the second half of Acts 20:28? “… Shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.” As pastors, we must realize that Jesus paid the ultimate price to redeem those in our congregations. Yes, there can—and will—be trying times. As one pastor jokingly said, “The sheep can stink sometimes.”

But those people in your pews are precious in the sight of the Lord—so precious that He gave His life for them. He could have chosen anybody, but He chose you to lead them.

You are the defender of your sheep.

Just as a shepherd puts his life on the line for his sheep, so you, too, are called to defend your flock. The wording used by Paul is strong and dire. “… After my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves” (Acts 20:29–30).

It feels as though this is truer today than ever before. We see the rise of anti-Biblical sentiments in culture, and some Christians and churches are being led into following the world instead of the Word.

How do you defend your flock? By taking a strong stand in your church between right and wrong, and by making sure your congregation is so grounded in Scripture and attuned to the truth that they can clearly spot the lies. Now is not the time for fluffy, feel-good Christianity. We’re in a battle, and it’s time to put on the full armor of God. (See Ephesians 6:10–18.)

Your reward is great.

1 Peter 5:2–4 continues the theme of shepherds and sheep, saying: “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock;and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.”

Being a pastor is not easy. The responsibility is great, and the calling is difficult and draining. But look at what awaits you! When your days are complete and you stand before our Savior, “you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.” What an incredible promise!

For the pastors who are reading this, please know that we love you and we’re praying for you. Even if you don’t hear it enough, know that you have our gratitude and support. And for non-pastors who are reading this, please remember to lift up and encourage your pastors—your “shepherds”—as they seek to guide you. Together, let’s stand firm until the day that the Chief Shepherd returns.

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Will Graham is the Executive Vice President of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.