We should pray daily for our Pastor and church leadership. Ideally, we should be praying for all leadership, for Daniel 2:21 states, “And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:” (KJV, Tyndale 1987). When we hear the term “five-fold,” we immediately think of Ephesians 4:11 and the church ministries. Specifically, I pray for my Pastor, his assistant, other church leadership, and their families. I may not totally comprehend the vastness of my petition, for God can do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). Still, I have developed the following format and let God fill in the individual needs as He sees fit.
First, I ask for a physical blessing. Our bodies take a beating, and late nights full of stress do not help. Petition God for strength, healing, and energy. The enemy of our souls would like nothing more than to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). A hedge of health would protect those who watch over our souls (Hebrews 13:17).
Next, I pray a spiritual blessing upon them. Only some people are as lovely as you are and trying to do the right thing. Coping with other people’s struggles has to be spiritually taxing. I speak here of the Spirit with a capital “S” and spirit with a lowercase “s”; the Holy Spirit’s power within and the human spirit of enthusiasm and motivation. Our leadership needs both to survive the daily and weekly bombardment they encounter. Strengthen our leadership, oh Lord!
Thirdly, an emotional blessing is my prayer. I cannot begin to comprehend the emotional highs and lows of the various situations each week. I weep when I think of the goodness of God and the things He has brought me through with the help of church leadership. Now multiply that by the number of people in your local congregation! It truly is overwhelming when you stop to think about it!
Next, I ask for a financial blessing for those in leadership. Many choose to be critical and disgruntled when considering church finances. Money woes are among some of the most stressful situations that life can throw at you in today’s society. It would be wonderful if your under-shepherd did not have such concerns! Also, many church leaders work secular jobs throughout the week and volunteer at the church (and enjoy some of the same criticism for free). I want volunteers to be blessed and minister to my family fresh and free of monetary burdens.
Finally, I ask God to bless my Pastor and his chosen leadership prophetically. What does that mean exactly? I leave that up to God. This blessing could be an encouraging word received from a reliable spokesperson. A thought or unction to deliver a message that is sorely needed. Perhaps a new vision and direction for the church going forward. I trust the man of God to recognize the voice of the Lord and utilize the information to benefit the Kingdom! Even a personal prophetic utterance would be in order, something we never know about. Let it be according to your will, oh Lord!
In conclusion, any prayer spoken supporting leadership would be profitable. The important part is that we pray and remember to include said leadership during that time of obeisance. The Lord will consider the thoughts and intents of your heart (Hebrews 4:12) and honor your sincere requests. You will likely receive a return blessing for blessing others (Proverbs 11:25, Luke 6:38), but something other than this should be your motivation. Abraham’s covenant relied on his obedience and faith in God; the byproduct is that “all the nations of the earth be blessed” (Genesis 22:18). Practice using a blessing tongue today in how you speak to people and talk to God!