Bible passage: Paul's prayer requests
For clear conscience - Heb 13:18, 19 - Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things. I urge you the more earnestly to do this in order that I may be restored to you the sooner.
For open doors - Col 4:2-4: Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.
For witnessing boldly - Eph 6:19,20 - and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.
For effective ministry and deliverance from those who oppose - Rom 15:30-32 I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf, that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company. 2 Thess 3:1,2 Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you, and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith.
Paul's trust in God's answers through the prayers of people Phil 1:19 for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance. 2 Cor 1:11 You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many. Philemon 1:22 At the same time, prepare a guest room for me, for I am hoping that through your prayers I will be graciously given to you.
We read from the Bible about God's heart for His people who are in the fold, and those who are lost. We read how greatly He empowers people to be their leaders, shepherds, apostles, and teachers. We also read how strictly God judges these leaders, and how resolvedly the devil goes behind them to make them stumble.
Even as we lament the corruption, the wickedness, or the insensitivity of some church leaders, let us remember to take them to the throne of grace. If Peter (when in prison) needed the prayers of the saints; if Paul, the great apostle requested prayers from people, how much more do leaders of today need our prayers?
Prayer points:
Pray by name for all the church bishops, leaders, and mission leaders (whom you know).
Pray for clean conscience - that God would convict them of any ongoing sin, and that they would repent. Pray that in matters of finance, relationships (especially with those of the opposite gender), integrity, and fame - the leaders would be blameless.
Pray for open doors - that God would show them where His word should be sown. For directions, guidance, and opportunities to witness.
Pray for effective ministry - that they would be able to communicate the gospel well. Pray that they are protected and delivered from those who oppose God's word.
Pray for health, for their personal needs, for their families, for accountability partners and truthful friends.
If you can, try memorizing James 3:1.
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