Two-minute read.
“And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed”
Acts 14:23
Appointed Leaders
Going out of their way, Paul and Barnabas returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Pisidian Antioch to strengthen the churches and appoint leaders. The apostles encouraged the congregations to persevere in the faith when trials came because they would come. Suffering and persecution happen, but we find victory in Jesus. Once Paul and Barnabas appointed leaders, they fasted and prayed for the new elders, committing them to the Lord.
Studying today’s passage convicts me to fast and pray for pastors. The weight they carry as spiritual guides for the church requires God’s intervention. The Lord has high expectations for elders:
“Therefore, an elder must be blameless, the husband of one wife, stable, sensible, respectable, hospitable to strangers, and teachable. He must not drink excessively or be a violent person but instead be gentle. He must not be argumentative or love money. He must manage his own family well and have children who are submissive and respectful in every way. For if a man does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church? He must not be a recent convert, so that he won’t become arrogant and fall into the Devil’s condemnation. He must be well thought of by outsiders, so he doesn’t] fall into disgrace and the trap set for him by the Devil.” 1 Timothy 3:2-7
Church leaders need the Lord’s help, and we must pray for them. As we know, all fall short of the mark, all sinners, including pastors and elders. Temptation falls their way, just as it does ours. Pride takes root quickly and can cause much destruction. Supporting and praying for spiritual leaders commits them to the Lord, strengthens ministries, and helps them persevere through life’s trials.
As you pray for the elders in your life, ask God to give them eyes to see and ears to hear His direction. Ask the Lord to protect leaders from the Devil’s attacks as they serve Him. Pray for financial blessings for the church and sound budget management. Express gratitude for their willingness to serve you, sacrificing their lives for others. Petition the Lord to bless the work of the elders’ hands as they strive to grow God’s kingdom, one person at a time.
Journal Questions:
- How can I apply today’s devotion to my life?
- What leaders do I need to fast and pray for today?
- What specific prayer requests do my spiritual leaders have?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for placing elders in our lives to help us learn about You and teach us to share Your love with others. As we come before You today, we ask for Your blessing on the elders in our life and their ministries. Please give them a clear vision and direction for their purpose. Protect them and their families from the Devil’s ploys. Strengthen Your appointed leaders for the battle ahead, and plant in their hearts the victory they have in You. IJNIP. Amen
