If you’ve been in ministry long enough, you know pastors hear just about everything in church. Some comments are hilarious, others are a little painful, and some can be deeply encouraging. Scripture reminds us, “The tongue can bring death or life” (Proverbs 18:21, NLT).
Words matter. They can drain a pastor—or breathe fresh hope into them.
FUNNY THINGS PASTORS HEAR IN CHURCH
“Great sermon, Pastor… too bad my spouse wasn’t here— they really needed it.”
“Can you preach shorter? The game kicks off soon.”
“I didn’t recognize you in jeans—are you allowed to wear those?”
“The music was way too loud… but last week it was too quiet.”
“Pastor, you only preach from the Bible, right?” (Well, yes… that’s the idea!)
“Your sermon really spoke to me. What was it about again?”
“We need more young families… but no children making noise in worship.”
Sometimes laughter is the only response. And sometimes… deep breaths.
WHAT PASTORS WISH THEY HEARD MORE OFTEN
Now imagine how different church life would be if these words showed up more often:
“Pastor, I prayed for you this week.”
“Thank you for faithfully preaching God’s Word.”
“Where can I help? Point me to the need.”
“I don’t just hear your sermons— I’m living them out.”
“I forgive quickly, because Christ forgave me.”
“I’m committed to unity in our church family.”
“We love you—not just for what you do, but for who you are in Christ.”
These kinds of words lift a pastor’s heart and strengthen the entire church.
BIBLE VERSES ON THE POWER OF WORDS
Scripture doesn’t take words lightly. Here are some reminders: Ephesians 4:29 – “Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.”
Colossians 4:6 – “Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”
James 1:19 – “Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.”
FINAL WORD
Pastors don’t expect perfection from their people—just as God doesn’t expect perfection from us. But we all need to remember that our words carry weight. The right word, spoken in love, can restore a weary spirit, heal wounds, and build up the body of Christ.
So next Sunday, instead of “The sermon was too long,” try: “God spoke to me through your message. Thank you.”
That’s encouragement that blesses the whole church, Along The Way.
