


Leaders - Church
The responsibility of leading a church is demanding—requiring a constant ear to both God and people, listening for God’s will and wisdom and the needs of the people. It means consistently working to live above reproach and standing firm in the shifting tides of culture. Proclaiming God’s word is a task that requires much study, internal development, intense mental and spiritual focus, and a constant pressure that doesn’t go away.
Hebrews 13:17 says that pastors are tasked with keeping watch over our souls and that they will be held accountable to God for their work. These are just some of the reasons church leaders need our constant support. Chapter 6 in the book of Acts tells the story of the apostles realizing they were becoming far too busy with demands other than what they were ultimately called and tasked by God to do. In response, they found seven men who were “well respected and full of the Spirit and wisdom” to serve in these ministries so that they may turn their attention fully to the study and preaching of God’s word. When you pray for your church leaders, you can pray something like this:
Father, thank you that you have blessed us with shepherds to help guide us towards loving you, serving you, and living our lives in obedience to you. I pray that you would empower them with your grace, that you would give them an awareness of your presence and voice, and that you would protect them and their familyies from the enemy. I ask that you would raise up capable leaders around them to help serve alongside them, that they may have the necessary time to study and grow in your word. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
