Read chapter 4 in Thom Rainer’s book, I Am a Church Member pages 43-53.
In his book written to fellow pastors, Brothers We Are Not Professionals, John
Piper writes of the power of prayer, “Prayer is the coupling of primary and
secondary causes. It is the splicing of our limp wire to the lightning bolt of
heaven. How astonishing it is that God wills to do His work through people. it
is doubly astonishing that He ordains to fulfill His plans by being asked to do
so by us. God loves to bless people. But even more He loves to do it in answer
to prayer.” (Page 53)
Read Acts 12:1-17. What was the church doing while
Peter was being held in prison for preaching the gospel? (Acts 12:5, 12) What
encouragement does this provide for your diligence to pray?
Read Colossians 4:2-6. What insights about prayer do
you glean from this passage? For what specific requests does Paul ask for
prayer?
What encouragements to pray for spiritual leaders
are gleaned from the following Scriptures?
Philippians 1:19--
2 Corinthians 1:11--
Acts 12:5--
Colossians 4:3--
Ephesians 6:19--
Application
The
Fourth Pledge: I am a church member. I will pray for my pastor
every day. I understand that the pastor’s work is never ending. His days are
filled with numerous demands that bring emotional highs and lows. He must deal
with critics. He must be a good husband and father. Because my pastor cannot
possibly do all things in his own power, I will pray for his strength and
wisdom daily. (Page 52)
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