The New Testament states the need for prayer for those in ministry in many places and gives many examples demonstrating that need. Drawing from these statements, I have compiled the following list of how we can pray for the next generation of preachers.
1. Burden
Beg God to call many of them into the spiritual harvest and give them a burden for lost souls (Matt. 9:37–38).
2. Love
Pray that their love may abound more and more with all knowledge and discernment (Phil. 1:9; 1 Thess. 3:12).
3. Holiness
Request that they will approve what is best in ministry and in life by being holy (Phil. 1:10; 1 Thess. 3:13).
4. Insight
Pray that they will have greater wisdom (Eph. 1:17), knowledge of His will (Col. 1:9) and spiritual understanding (Col. 1:9).
5. Hope
Plead that they may continue full of hope about their calling and inheritance in eternity (Eph. 1:18).
6. Power
Ask God to give them strength and resurrection power in their lives and ministries (Eph. 1:19; Col. 1:11).
7. Fruitfulness
Pray that they may walk worthy of the Lord by bearing much fruit through godly works and increasing in the knowledge of God (Phil. 1:11; Col. 1:10).
8. Effective Preaching
Ask that the Word preached by them would have great effect (have “free course” or “run freely”) and be magnified in its influence (“be glorified”) (2 Thess. 3:2).
9. Example of Godliness
Request that they would attain to and retain the dispositional and behavioral qualities of a true spiritual leader (1 Tim. 3:1–7; Titus 1:6–9; 2 Tim. 2:1; 1 Pet. 5:3).
10. Thanksgiving
Pray that they will be filled with thanksgiving always to the Father for their calling and rich opportunities of service (Col. 1:12; 1 Thess. 5:18).
