08/18/2021
When was the last time you prayed for your church leaders? It is so important to lift up those who have been called to be the tip of the spear in the war against sin. We should be honoring them, and asking the Lord to guide their every step. They are not only preaching and teaching the gospel to unbelievers, but they are also being attacked by the dark one.as he attempts to stop them from making a spiritual impact.
“Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you, and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith.”
2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 ESV
Paul asks over and over again in his epistles for prayer, not just to keep the churches active in his ministry, but to draw on the incredible power of their prayers. This is the same power we need to provide our pastors, deacons, ministers, and church workers today.
“praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel,”
Ephesians 6:18-19 ESV
Beyond asking for our leaders to be strengthened in their efforts to do God’s will, it is equally important to pray for their protection. When we step up our efforts to win souls, and serve the Lord in other ways, the dark forces also ramp up their efforts, and go into high gear to oppose us. But, through the prayers of the Saints we are defended, and should not be anxious.
“do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 ESV
Several years ago I was asked to join a three man prayer team of elders at my church. I was replacing a prayer warrior who had been a member of this group for many years, and had gone to be with the Lord. After praying I agreed to join them. Within two weeks I was diagnosed with cancer, and when I informed Jack, who was our eldest member. He looked at me and said… we should have told you about this… Satan was going to come against you for stepping up your spiritual efforts. Then they prayed with me, and for me. In short order my tumor was removed in its entirety, and no chemotherapy was required. I am cancer free today. It was a very aggressive form of the cancer, but had miraculously not broken containment.
“For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.”
2 Corinthians 10:3-6 ESV
Prayers to heal, prayers to protect, prayers to strengthen, prayers to instill wisdom and knowledge. We are meant to offer all of these prayers for those who lead us, and that we send into the far reaches of the world.
Prayer:
Father, we pray today for those who you have called to lead the churches, and to serve as teachers and other high offices within it. We ask that you give them wisdom, knowledge, and strength. We also pray that you draw your weapons, and defeat the dark ones who will come against them in an effort to weaken, or defeat them as these your Saints do your will for which they were called. Holy, Holy, Holy, are you our God who watches over us, and delves out your strength in accordance with the efforts in prayer of your churches, and their faithful. Merciful are you, and your Son is our mighty intercessor who leads us in prayer against all enemies. Strengthen us in Christ, and embolden us by the grace He pours out on us. Call us your children Father, and welcome us home to your kingdom where we will serve you forevermore.
Rich Forbes