Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison—that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak. Col. 4:2-4
As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. 1 Sam. 12:23
Dear Lord Jesus, I stand convicted about how sporadic my prayer life has been of late on behalf of servants of the gospel. Unfortunately, it’s often a case of “out of sight, out of mind,” and therefore off the radar screen of prayer. That’s not an excuse but a lament and confession of sin.
My great consolation is in knowing that no one is more watchful and devoted to prayer than you, Lord Jesus. You’re always praying for us; indeed, you never stop. In fact, you pray faithfully and joyfully for us what we’d pray for ourselves, if we knew what you knew! Oh, the peace, joy and hope this brings us!
Because you pray, we can pray with great boldness, joy, and confidence. I’m so grateful for your steadfast, vigilant intercession, especially in light of my own brokenness and need of your loving care. Sometimes our own weakness is the best motivation and fuel for praying for others.
Lord Jesus, for missionaries seeking to bring the gospel to unreached people groups or in situations long resistant to the Good News, open doors no one can shut, and shut doors no one can open. You’ve bought a bride from every nation, so we pray with anticipation, not with doubt. Give your servants patience, provision, and enough fruit to keep them encouraged. May the gospel be fresh manna to their souls. Keep their hearts alive to your great affection and tender mercies. Strengthen their marriages and friendships with the gift of your kindness and love.
Lord Jesus, for your servants seeking to bring the liberating power of the gospel to places of systemic brokenness and evil, grant them protection and success. I’m thinking about the women and men who labor in arenas like human trafficking, AIDS, hunger and poverty, and other places of cruel injustice. When your servants feel most weary in doing good, give them the living hope of the gospel. Grant them favor with local authorities. Grant them good working relationships with other agencies and missions organizations. Let them know, for certain, that a harvest of righteousness and peace is coming.
Indeed, we praise you, Lord Jesus, that our labors, though often exhausting, are never in vain; for we don’t minister for you, but with you. You are the one who is making all things right and new. Your kingdom of justice and mercy will prevail. The government of the world is already on your shoulders; and there will be no end to the increase of your redeeming reign and your healing peace. So very Amen we pray, in your tender and triumphant name.
