30 Days of Prayer: Praying for our Church Leaders

“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:5,13

In his book Radical, David Platt shares a story of persecuted church leaders who travel for miles to meet in secret to pray. Kneeling together in a circle, bowed prostrate, they cry out for hours, only to arise to puddles of tears on the dirt floor.

What is it that causes men and women to commit their lives to Jesus in such a way?

I’ve heard it said it is our passions that get us up in the morning and our burdens that keep us awake at night. No wonder Jesus often arose early to pray (Mark 1:35) and stayed up late to serve (John 3:1-21).

COVID-19 has impacted more than our physical health. There have been dramatic increases in 211 calls related to suicide and mental health. It has pushed our society into a state of disorientation and this certainly includes churches. Church leaders across the world have been on their knees, crying out in desperation for the Holy Spirit to move, heal, and lead.

Those who lead us at Pathway Community Church certainly need our prayers. Desperate for God’s power, these women and men have shouldered this weight of disorientation, and they are fully trusting the Spirit’s guidance—literally one moment at a time—as they lead us into an unknown future.

Prayer:

Father, despite the disorientation, you are fully in control. Remind our leaders that your Kingdom has come. An awakening is happening! A movement is here! Lord, continue to grow in our leaders a desperation for your power alone. May your Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.

For Reflection:

What in my life can I commit to Jesus?

By Aaron Frey