8 Characteristics the World’s Best Pastors Have in Common
Ever wonder why some pastors always seem to be great and growing their church, donors and missions? Are they especially charismatic or talented people? Do they know something others don’t?
The truth of the matter is that the best pastors are human beings—just like you and me. However, they have discovered some secrets to staying relevant in today’s changing world. They have learned—through trial and error—how to lead. And they always lead with integrity.
Most pastors struggle to succeed and grow their church because they operate in an outdated way. They don’t think about building a framework for their church, or moving to integrated, digital solutions for their congregation. Some simply operate the same as they have been for years, then wonder why they do not get results.
But as the world moves, pastors must learn to adapt, think out of the box, and innovate. Here are a few more characteristics the world’s best pastors have in common.
1. The best pastors deliver results for their donors
When donors give their money to the church, they are treating it as an investment. They want to see a project come to fruition. They are counting on you as pastors, and on your project managers, to handle their funds properly. The best pastors remember this and utilize online financial management tools to ensure that no funding is wasted or unaccounted for.
Psalms 78:72 So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, and guided them with his skillful hands.
2. They are capable of transitioning to digital platforms
The most efficient of today’s pastors utilize the technology available to the church. Yes, they are great at personal witnessing, one-on-one coaching and evangelism. Yet, they recognize the need to stay updated, and upgraded. They know how to use apps for “smart” tithing, software for donors, and social networks for spreading the Gospel.
Luke 12:48 From everyone who has been given much shall much be required.
3. They know how to avoid burnout
Burnout happens to us all. As a leader, you are constantly “bearing the others’ burdens”. In your work and ministry, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. But you can be a better pastor simply by always remembering where your true strength comes from. You can learn to “rest in the Lord”. You also can remind your donors and members to take breaks, find hope and strength from prayer and quiet time.
Nehemiah 8:10b The Joy of the Lord is your strength.
4. They stay personal in their witnessing
While they know how to speak to the masses, they also have learned the secrets of personal witnessing, and how to coach people as if there was no one else in the world. They keep their sermons intimate and relevant, always treating each church member and donor as an individual, the unique creation that God intended.
John 13:12-15 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.
5. They stay humble
There is something powerful and attractive about the church leader who doesn’t show off his or her successes. The one who remains the same through success and failure. The one who leads with the same integrity whether leading one, or one hundred or one thousand of their congregation. Success does not go to their head.
Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves…
6. The best pastors think like a coach
Business coaches and financial coaches are there to show you how to invest well, where to invest, and which risks are worth taking. The pastors who are able to lead their flock with their best interests in mind will be the ones who succeed. Help your donors to know their values, plan for long term goals with your church, and only invest their donations where you know they will have the most value. get coaching on this to Get started.
Proverbs 11:14 Where there is no guidance the people fall, But in abundance of counselors there is victory.
7. They stay relevant in changing times
Since the beginning of Christianity, pastors have had to adapt their methods of evangelism and service. Whether it was branching out to new countries in times of persecution, building schools for literacy in order to teach the Bible, or learning the local language and customs of a mission field.
Galatians 6:9 Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.
8. The best pastors model Christ’s leadership
Looking at the example of Jesus, the best pastors lead by example. They live to serve. Sunday service sermons are not where their job stops. They use any opportunity, even one-on-one with church members, to be a witness and guide a soul to the light.
Luke 22:26 But it is not this way with you, but the one who is the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like the servant.
Need more Bible-based inspiration and digital resources for your pastors and ministry? Read more on our Donorwerx blog and call us for more information today.
