I think this is something you have to handle carefully, because sometimes the person is not trying to become a burden to you. They may just trust you, especially if they are new in the faith or they have not really learned how to handle certain things themselves.
But you also have to be careful not to create a dependency where the person cannot make any decision without calling the pastor.
So, don’t always give them the answer immediately. Sometimes, ask them, “What do you think you should do?” Or, “Have you prayed about this?” You are helping them to think. You are helping them to pray. You are helping them to develop the ability to make godly decisions.
Because if every time they have a problem, you solve it for them, tomorrow they will still come back with another problem.
There is a difference between shepherding someone and becoming someone’s decision-maker.
Your job as a pastor is not to make every decision for your members. Your job is to help them grow to a point where they can also hear from God, study the Word, seek wise counsel, and make mature decisions.
And sometimes, you may have to tell them, “I can advise you, but I want you to think about this yourself first. Pray about it, look at what the Word says, and then let’s talk about what you believe you should do.”
That way, you are still there for them, but you are not creating an unhealthy dependence on yourself.
Because ultimately, you want to raise mature Christians, not people who cannot function unless the pastor tells them what to do.
14 people found this helpful