By Tami Hubler -

A Pastor’s work can be lonely and exhausting.

Amen.

This year, the prayer emphasis for Southern Baptist Associations focuses on the health, strength, wisdom, and wellness of our pastors. Our pastors carry a heavy responsibility (Hebrews 13:17) and are routinely targeted by the enemy. Each of us can play a vital part in making their jobs easier. Prayer is a wonderful way to show your pastor your love and gratefulness for all they do.

You have an opportunity to pray alongside others for your pastor and the other pastors in your association beginning on Sunday, October 22nd through Sunday October 29th. This week of prayer will have specific days of focus unique to the challenges of the pastor’s role.

Prayer Focus

Day 1 – Sunday

Pray today that the pastors in our association will strengthen and encourage one another.

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up as you are already doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

Day 2 – Monday

Pray today that the pastors in your association can confidently make any difficult but God-honoring decisions that need to be made in their ministry.

“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10)

Day 3 – Tuesday

Pray today that the pastors in our association will be unafraid to lead their people into new territory.

“Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9)

Day 4 – Wednesday

Pray today that the pastors in our association who are facing particularly difficult challenges will overcome those challenges and be strengthened by them.

“The God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, establish, strengthen, and support you after you have suffered a little while” (1 Peter 5:10).

Day 5 – Thursday

Pray today that the pastors in our association who may be struggling emotionally will experience renewed vibrancy in their relationship with the Lord, their families, and their people.

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart, my portion forever” (Psalm 73:26).

Day 6 – Friday

Pray today that the pastors in our association will have discernment, that the enemy will remain at bay and that they can walk boldly in the Lord’s protection.

“Be alert, stand firm in the faith, be courageous, be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13).

Day 7 – Saturday

Pray today that the pastors in our association will be agents of peace in the event of conflict or strife in their churches.

“The Lord gives his people strength; the Lord blesses his people with peace” (Psalm 29:11).

Day 8 – Sunday

Pray today that the pastors of our association will preach the Word of God in power and that they will find strength and assurance as the Holy Spirit does His work among their people.

“Because our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with full assurance. You know how we lived among you for your benefit” (1 Thessalonians 1:5).

 

Church Participation

1.        1. Sunday, October 1st - Begin announcing the week of prayer.

NAMB has created flyers, posters, bulletin inserts, a PowerPoint template, and a Seven Day Prayer Guide to help you get the word out in your church. You can find these free resources at: namb.net/associations

2.      2. Sunday, October 22nd – Kick off the week of prayer using the Seven Day Prayer Guide.

Here are a few ideas:

a.      Print out the guide and give to your congregation.

b.      Post a link to the guide on social media and your website.

c.       Create a QR code for individuals to scan to access the guide.

3.      3. Sunday, October 29th  – Conclude the week by having the church pray over your pastor.

Since Sunday is traditionally Pastor Appreciation Month, combine with appreciation cards and gifts.

The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Psalm 9:9