May 16, 2015: SOAP #1990:

Scripture: 1Thessalonians (NIV) 5:25 Brothers and sisters, pray for us.

Observation: Paul, who had prayed for them, now asks their prayers for himself. Leaders, seeking the prayers of those to whom they minister are clearly admitting that they too are human, subject to temptation and capable of making mistakes. It is a way of acknowledging that they need God’s help and guidance too. Leaders need our prayers whether they ask for it or not. We need to pray for our leaders.

Application: It is easy to point out flaws in leaders. They are human and subject to temptation. Instead of using our energy to condemn them we should keep our eyes on Jesus and our leaders in our prayers. We should talk to God about our leaders more than we complain to others.

If I am faithful to read God’s Word and to commune each day with the Holy Spirit, I can grow in my spiritual life with our without input from a spiritual leader. People who complain about “not being fed” often reveal that they are not faithful in Bible reading and prayer. (John 14:26; 16:13 and 1John 2:27) However we must remember that leaders are God’s gift to the church! (Ephesians 4:11)

While in the US Navy I complained to the Lord about attending the base chapel. God spoke to me, “If I can speak to my prophet through a donkey (Numbers 22:28), I can surely speak to you through a chaplain!” My attitude changed and from that time I never left the chapel without something that God spoke to me.

Prayer: Heavenly Father thank you for the leaders you have placed in my life. Bless them and guide them by your Holy Spirit. My life has greatly benefited from their ministry. People who receive a blessing from my ministry today should also be grateful for their ministry. Amen