Saturday, January 14, 2012

Are you praying for people you lead?

One Sunday I invited everyone to share some specific prayer concerns on the Communication Card.  I did this in the context of the message, not during it's normal time. 

Response tripled.  I now had 1300 cards to pray for instead of the usual 150. 

I admit I did not greet this opportunity with joy.


In the process of praying through the cards, however, I realized it had been a long time since I prayed for the people of ADBC by name.  God had given me a chance to do just that.

What I learned:  People carry heavy burdens; I don't need to add to those burdens, but offer the hope of Jesus.
I learned people want to be generous, but feel trapped.  They need the freedom of Jesus.
I learned people want to know Jesus better - they really do.  They need the church to help them.

What was the last time you prayed for all the people you lead?