10/9/09

Praying for your Pastor and Other Ministry Leaders

Pray that they would:

Wholeheartedly pursue the vision God has for their lives and for the church, and resist any pressure to stray from His will—no matter where it comes from. Also, that they can articulate that vision clearly, passionately, and effectively (1 Chron. 12:32; Hab. 2:1-3).

Keep a clean heart and a clear mind through a vibrant, growing, personal relationship with Jesus Christ (Acts 23:1; 1 John 3:21).

Become more passionate about God’s Word and prayer than ever before—with contagious enthusiasm that spreads to the congregation as they faithfully proclaim the gospel with obedience, relevance, boldness, and conviction (Luke 5:16; 2 Tim. 4:1-5).

That they would have faith to trust that the Lord will take full responsibility for their needs—and those of their families—when they obey Him (Phil 4:19).

Seek to edify and maintain harmony with their co-laborers on the church staff and that they would have the discernment to seek out only those who God wants to fill any empty leadership positions (Ex. 18:21-23; Acts 6:1-6).

Be the caring spiritual and moral leaders their families need them to be and that they would invest time nurturing their loved ones with gentleness and truth (Titus 1:5-9).

Recognize their inadequacy for the task before them, their need to pray for God's wisdom and courage, and the joy that comes from living in the power of the Holy Spirit (Josh. 1:5-6; Zech. 4:6; Acts 4:31).

Reject all counsel that violates the spiritual principles of God's Word and always trust Him to lead them in the right direction (Ps. 25:4-5).

Be ready to step out by faith and make decisions based on God’s will, rather than financial or earthly considerations (Ps. 20:7).

Find their worth in Christ rather than in the approval of others (Ps. 56:3–4).

Strive to be godly examples to the congregation and the community, and proactively grow others to be strong leaders as well (1 Pet. 5:1-4).

Remember they are accountable to God for how they lead His people (James 3:1).

Be protected from Satan’s traps, attacks, and temptations. Also, that they would have the discernment to know when the enemy is at work and the wisdom to know how to confront it (2 Cor. 10:4; Eph. 6:10-19).

Seek out healthy friendships with trustworthy friend who will keep them accountable in their personal concerns and struggles (Prov. 27:17).

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