Clergy who think they are paid too much

^{, I c34}There's a much better answer than bravely playing the martyr to your congregation by begging them not to give you a raise. GIVE MORE IN YOUR TITHE! I know that doesn't give you all the attention you get when you announce to the council (and synod assembly) what a brave sacrifice you are making for their sake, but you are actually not doing your congregation a favor to allow them to get so far behind in their salary. Because when you leave (yes there is life in the congregation after you) they will have to face the harsh reality that they need to come up with a big increase to attract another pastor. And you will have put the next pastor (who maybe doesn't have a working spouse, or has more children or seminary debt or need than you) who cannot magnanimously and publicly give up their raise at a disadvantage. Because you know, it's not all about YOU!

So whenever you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be praised by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be done in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
Matthew 6:2-4