S – Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to give recognition to those who labor among you and lead you in the Lord and admonish you, ¹³ and to regard them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves

1 Thessalonians 5:12–13 CSB

O – Paul gave three exhortations to the church regarding their proper attitude toward their leaders.

1.  Respect them.  (eidenai) “to know,” appreciating and respecting them and their work.

2.  Esteem, value. Greek: hold them in the highest regard (hēgeisthai autous hyperekperissōs).  The highest respect is due these leaders, and it is to come from an attitude of affection (in love) for them, again, because of their work.

3. Live in peace with each other. This results from obeying the former instructions. The idea here is to maintain rather than to initiate peace. The command is imperative. Much dissension in modern churches is traceable to church members disobeying these commands

The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures

A – This is not a free pass for ministers or church leaders.  This is God recognizing the “price tag” put on those who fulfill these roles.  Recognize the concepts – the person, the work and the fruit.  I must lead today in a way that starts with my personal relationship with God.  Then, my work must be done with a pure heart and excellence.  Finally, my role is to build relationships that bring peace to the body.

R – Lord, help me to do this today.