I was asked recently to give a list of 10 ways folks could pray for their pastor, which meant to me, “How can I pray for you?” I’ve tried to give this some careful thought, and the list below is the result. I’m sure a million requests could be added, but here are at least 10 ways that you can pray for your pastor.
- Pray that your pastor would find daily delight in his relationship with God (Psalm 42:1; Matthew 5:6; 22:37; John 6:35).
- Pray that your pastor would diligently seek to grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ, resulting in a godly life that is a ministry to God in heaven (Psalm 101:6; 1 Timothy 4:8; 2 Peter 3:18) and an example to people on earth (1 Peter 5:3b).
- Pray that your pastor would sacrificially love his wife and raise his children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (1 Timothy 3:4–5; Ephesians 5:25–30; 6:4).
- Pray that your pastor would zealously and sacrificially love the lost and serve the church that God purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:28; Matt 22:39; 1 Timothy 3:1; 2 Timothy 4:5).
- Pray that your pastor would not see the joy of earthly ministry as an end in itself but as the firstfruits of a future joy together forever with Christ (Philippians 1:21–26; 1 Thessalonians 4:17).
- Pray that your pastor would live out the power of God to endure the seen and unseen suffering that God will use for good (2 Corinthians 12:9–10; 2 Timothy 1:8; 2:3; James 1:2–4).
- Pray that your pastor would prioritize prayer and the study of the Word, knowing that his perseverance in these things will ensure the salvation of himself and those who hear him (Acts 6:4; 1 Timothy 4:15–16).
- Pray that your pastor would preach the Word boldly and clearly, whatever the occasion may be and however it may be received (Colossians 4:2–4; 2 Timothy 4:1–4).
- Pray that your pastor would disciple others as he is able and especially faithful men who will be able to teach others also (2 Timothy 2:2).
- Pray that your pastor would prosper in all respects and be in good health, just as his soul prospers (3 John 2).
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