Good morning, everyone! Okay, this is a bit lengthy, so I warned you! :)
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I saw the return address, yet had no idea who it was from looking on the outside. I opened the card, and tears came to my eyes. ( I will admit- this had happened more than once on this journey!)
I had received a card from a classmate at Asbury that I have only met through email! No wonder I had not recognized the address. At one point when we were sharing an online class, we started up some meaningful conversations. She was a pastor going through some family crisis. (Yes--they have family messes too.) I got to pray over the internet for her, and we kept up the conversation past the class.
I guess I have a special place in my heart to pray for Pastors and those in church leadership. It is not an easy job by any means, and all the more so in these days and times. That one seed of prayer for a Pastor can bear some powerful fruit in the Kingdom of God!
Today, take some time to thank those who pray for you, instruct you and guide you on your spiritual path. God put them in your life for a reason--and they are most likely the ones to laugh with you, cry with you, coach you in crisis, and most of all- walk with you through your growing to become more like Christ. They depend upon our prayers as much as we depend upon them.
How do you pray for Pastors?
--pray for spiritual vision and wisdom.
--pray for their hunger for study of Scriptures as their primary point of reference and deepening of their relationship w/ God.
--Pray for their prayer life- that it is fruitful and intimate as they open their heart.
--pray for their relationships(particularly in their immediate family) that God will protect these family members as they are serving others.
--pray for their spouses(if they are married) and for supernatural grace and protection from wrongful and damaging temptation if their calling is to be single.Pray protection for the marriage covenant,with their spouse, that it remain strong and protected from temptations. Pray for the spouse's support system as well.
--pray for a teachable heart for a pastor. That they will continue to learn and listen carefully and openly to correction from the Lord if needed. Pray against a spirit of arrogance and pride, as they are vulnerable in public service. pray that they will see themselves realistically, accepting weaknesses as well as successes, and embracing the character of Jesus in correct humility.
--Pray for effective and regular accountability in their lives. This area is especially needful in a pastor's life, beyond just spousal accountability. Pray for good fellowship of the same gender, that the brotherhood/sisterhood of their friendships blossoms as they seek God "on even ground" with others.
--pray for financial provision for them as many are in seminary, conferences,and start up ministries to rekindle fires (both corporately and personally). ask that God gives them wisdom in the provisions He gives.
Many pastors do not ask for such prayers--but they need us as much as we need them. Their vision, their calling is much more than the human eye can see--But God sees them. Let's join in with what God is doing!
For all you pastors who are my friends--this is for you.
