….The following nine statements are heart matters for many church members. For the most part, these members are not the perpetual critics and the business meeting naysayers. These are men and women who truly love their pastors. But many of them do have some words from the heart they would like to share with their pastors.

1. “Let me know you really care for me.” We can tell if you really care for us and love us.
2. “Teach me the Bible.” I am hungry for biblical teaching and preaching. Please spend time studying the Word so you can teach us well.
3. “Help me deal with change.” Help me understand the steadfastness of God in a turbulent world.
4. “Don’t lead too far ahead.” I know change is necessary, but learn the pace of change that is best for our church.
5. “Help me deal with family issues.” We hurt deeply when we have hurts about our families. Show us biblical truths about these issues.
6. “Be transparent.” We know you are imperfect, … But we do want to know that you have some of the same struggles we do. It helps us to identify with you better.
7. “Don’t get defensive when I offer constructive criticism.” … Hear us without being defensive. Pray that God’s Spirit will help you discern when you should listen and when you should ignore.
8. “Pray for me.” … Let us know that you consider prayer for the members to be one of your highest priorities.
9. “Give me hope.” …. Show me Christ’s possibilities, His hope, and His encouragement in difficult days.

[Editor’s note: This article is incomplete. The link (URL) to the original article at Church Answers is unavailable and has been removed.]