#16: I am thankful for encouragement.

Preachers are a selfish, egocentric, and thin-skinned lot. We take things rather personally--even if we shouldn't. We think we are right--even when we aren't. And we think everyone should always agree with us--even when they don't, won't or can't.

Anyway, in the midst of feeling sorry for myself recently a friend and church member gave that bit of encouragement that I needed to start seeing things on a bit more of an even keel. Thanks to you, friend and church member.

So, to you church members, try to remember that your pastor is human, too, and that he needs your encouragement from time to time (just like you need his). And Preacher, don't take yourself so seriously--nobody else does.