Since spiritual warfare is a reality we face as preachers, perhaps there is more we should be doing in order to stand firm against the wiles of the enemy? Again, I would love to hear your suggestions. I would like to focus my thoughts on one key area – prayer.
Preaching Prayer Partners – I am a firm believer in the importance of prayer partners. We are blessed with a network of prayer partners that stand with us in prayer as we minister. This is not just the privilege of missionaries, why not preachers too? Seek out a group of people who will pray for you as a preacher, your family and your ministry. Then remember to communicate regularly, appreciate appropriately and pray for them as well.
Preaching Prayer Teams – This is one of the most difficult things to organize, perhaps because it has so much potential. Find a small group who will pray during the service, interceding for those ministering (preacher, music team, etc.), and for those in attendance. The challenge is first of all finding people willing to miss the service, then finding people who understand what it means to intercede throughout the time rather than for just the first few minutes. Training, encouragement and appreciation are vital.
Personal Prayer Life – Arranging for others to pray for you and your ministry is no substitute for a dynamic personal prayer life. In this area I am more of a pragmatist than a spiritual disciplines fanatic. Do whatever it takes to stimulate and cultivate a healthy prayer life – journaling, prayer-walking, prayer while swimming, prayer while pacing, prayer-driving, etc. There really is no substitute for time with God.
