Prayer Partners

One of the most overlooked items in our prayer life is having a prayer partner to share concerns and to pray with on a regular basis. Over the years I have had several people pray with me before I preach on Sunday morning. My current prayer partner meets with me on Sundays at 9:45 in my Study. He lifts me up through prayer and encouragement. However, he does more than just pray with me on Sundays; I receive text messages from him on a regular basis, just to check in. I am very thankful for my prayer partner, I sense I am a better preacher because of his partnership.

There are a few benefits that come from having a prayer partner...

1. He keeps me accountable. Sundays can be very hectic for a minister and it is very easy to get caught up in the stuff of the day and never take time to pray for the day. My prayer partner has a standing appointment at 9:45 a.m. on Sundays in my Study. If I am not there, he comes looking for me. His accountability reminds me what is really important on Sunday.
2. He gives me clarity. My prayer partner knows what I am preaching on each Sunday and his prayer for me is to communicate clearly the word of God. As we pray for clarity, it reminds me how precious my study time is each week and to make sure I am preparing a message that will not simply be full of information or clever, but will present the gospel clearly.
3. He is an encourager. He lifts me up and keeps me moving forward. Currently my prayer partner is not a "leader" in the congregation, however he is a leader via his influence and encouraging spirit!

I am grateful for my prayer partner, I hope all leaders have someone to lift them up each week. If you are looking at how to have a prayer partner ministry in your church I would recommend John Maxwell's "Partners in Prayer" this is an excellent resource for prayer partners.