Pray for Your Pastors

There are two elderly ladies in our church who make a point of regularly sharing with me (usually on their way out of our Sunday gathering) that they pray for me often. Every time I hear it from them, it brings a special joy and gratitude. In addition to the effectiveness of the prayers, there is the regular reminder of my dependence on God for every good thing that may come from my ministry.

Today I came across a list from R.W. Glenn, a pastor in Minnesota, informing his congregation on how they could pray regularly for him. As I read them, my soul certainly resonated that I too need these prayers on a daily basis! I'm sure Jason, and the other elders in the church would say the same. So for those who may be inclined to pray (or those who already are, but would like more clarity on how to specifically pray), here they are:

1. That the gospel would be the focal point of my life and identity – not manhood, not being a husband, not being a father, not being a pastor, but who I am in Christ.

2. That I would not fear man by desiring the admiration of people; that the Lord’s “Well done” would be ever before my eyes.

3. That the Lord would not allow me to go long between repentances; that I would keep short accounts with Him and be sensitive to and ruthless with my sin.

4. That I would continue to grow in the character qualities of a man of God (1 Tim. 3:1-7; 2 Tim. 2:22-26; Titus 1:5-9).

5. That I would have a consistent, powerful, diligent life of private prayer; that I would grow in my dependence on the Holy Spirit.

6. That the Lord would give me great diligence in study and sermon preparation, making the most of my time.

7. That my preaching and teaching ministry would be empowered by the Holy Spirit; that the Lord would effect real change in our lives through it; and that by it we would be more endeared to Christ.

8. That I would boldly and faithfully and humbly and joyfully and intentionally share the gospel with the non-Christians in my social orbit.

9. That I would see Jesus as supremely valuable, my greatest treasure, and as my dear friend.

To those nine, I would add one more that immediately came to mind:

10. That I would love my wife and children and give myself to their discipleship with same energy, thoughtfulness and devotion that I do for the church in my responsibilities as a pastor.

To those who pray regularly for me and the other pastors, thank you so much. If we could see all that God does in response to the prayers of His people, we would surely have fresh encouragement for what a precious gift it is!