Praying for Your Pastor

This is going to be an interesting post.

Since we have announced our resignation there have been many responses. We will talk a little about that this Sunday morning.

One of the interesting responses has been the number of people who have apologised.... apologised for not praying for us as their pastors.

True to our empowering style here are some tips on praying for your pastor ... and great ones from Dan Reiland. He worked with John Maxwell for many years.

Here is a bit of what Dan says and suggests.

Pastors, particularly senior pastors, are often seen as an unrealistic combination of the Apostle Paul and Billy Graham or perhaps Rambo and OO7...whatever fits best! The point is, the
perception is unrealistic - and often superhuman.

The point I want to make is that while pastors love their work, they are human. And they often carry an unrealistic "job description." In a day of hyper-specialization, pastors are still expected to do a little of everything. My strong encouragement is that each church:

* Allow their pastor to play to his/her strengths
* Structure a realistic work load (which includes members getting involved)
* Pray for the pastor

The following is a well thought through, simple and practical plan from my book "Shoulder to Shoulder - Strengthening Your Church By Supporting Your Pastor" that will help you pray effectively for the pastor. This plan can be done in just a few minutes a day.

Monday: Pray for your pastor's family.
* God's peace and protection
* A growing love relationship with his/her spouse
* A commitment to quality and quantity time together

Tuesday: Pray for wisdom for your pastor.
* The mind of Christ
* Godly decision-making
* Understanding of biblical truth

Wednesday: Pray for your pastor's ministry focus.
* Clear vision
* Commitment to biblical priorities
* Remain true to his/her God-given gifts and strengths

Thursday: Pray for your pastor's health.
* Protection of his/her body and mind
* An extra portion of stamina and strength
* Commitment to stress-releasing activity

Friday: Pray for your pastor's spiritual growth.
* A heart for God and the lost
* Fresh biblical insights
* Personal devotions not related to sermon preparation

Saturday: Pray for your pastor's purity.
* Pure motives
* Pure thought-life and faithfulness to his/her spouse
* Pure commitment to complete integrity

Sunday: Pray for God's anointing on your pastor.
* Strength in leadership
* Passion in preaching
* Fruit and joy in ministry