Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints. Pray also for me, so that when I speak, a message may be given to me to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I must speak.
Ephesians 6:18-20

Paul asked the Christians in Ephesus to pray for him. While us preachers often offer to pray for our church members, friends, and family (and over meals and ball games and car trips, etc.) we don’t always voice our need for prayer.

There is a member of our church who reminds me often as I am about to walk down the aisle to lead worship that she is praying for me. That touches me deeply.

In the Worshipbook (jointly published in the early 1970’s by The Cumberland Presbyterian Church, The PCUS, and The United Presbyterian Church), we find this prayer “For Ministers of the Word.” Alan, Sarah, and I would welcome such a prayer being prayed for us.

Prayer:

In every age, O God, You have appointed spokespeople, prophets, and priests, to lead Your faithful people. May ministers of the gospel tell the truth in love. Keep them from mouthing pieties they do not mean. Make them humble people without pretense or pride, who bring light to darkness, showing the way of Jesus Christ, to whom we praise forever. Amen.