Pastor, your prayer life matters. It’s essential. It’s a non-negotiable. You know that, but it’s good to be reminded. Your prayer life affects every part of your ministry and heart.
Without a growing, consistent prayer life, a pastor will not make it. Prayer is not a luxury; it is essential. It is one of the most vital yet often neglected parts of a pastor’s life. If you find your prayer life lacking, it is time to repent and begin afresh. Pray for yourself, your family, your church, and your own heart to remain soft before the Lord.
Your personal prayer life with Jesus is so important because without it, it is only a matter of time before your heart grows cold, your family suffers, and your ministry falters. The risk is not worth it. The Bible tells us, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). How much more for the pastor, elder, and leader!
Prayer keeps your heart anchored in Jesus. It keeps you dependent on Him for strength, direction, and wisdom. There is no substitute for abiding in Him daily. As you spend time in prayer, you will find yourself resting in the grace and mercy of Jesus, strengthened by His love. That love will keep you steady in your calling. My pastor, Jeff Johnson, would always tell us that we must stay in touch with headquarters, our heavenly Father. Prayer keeps us connected.
God’s love for you never changes. He loves you supremely.
“The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5:16). Yet, through compromise or neglect, you can find yourself in a place where you are not enjoying His love as you should. Sin and spiritual compromise will harden your heart and harm your witness. Guard your heart and mind. Stay close to the Lord in prayer. Remain in His Word. Let the Lord search you and keep you near to Him.
God desires to bless your life and ministry and to make you fruitful. “You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 2:1). The Lord blesses those who walk in humility, purity, and faithfulness. Let Him bless you by living a pure and godly life so that He can entrust you with more. Stay humble. Stay obedient. Stay close. Be willing to do whatever it takes to remain in that place of abiding love in Jesus, even if it means stepping back to realign your heart before Him.
Your ministry cannot replace your walk with Jesus. Stay near to Him, and He will keep you steady, fruitful, and faithful in all He has called you to do.
Adapted from the book, Sure and Steady by Pastor Ed Taylor. CH 6
