Christians are often people of action, especially when it comes to developing a ministry. We would rather be doing than sitting around thinking about it. Other times we may spend our time analyzing a situation rather than getting involved. Either tendency can lead a person in the wrong direction if she is not spending enough time in prayer.
To be effective in any ministry, you must have a strong prayer life. Many people struggle with this part of their walk with God.
As busy as we are, caring for family and managing all of the daily responsibilities of life and ministry, it is an easy task to neglect. Many times, we don’t take the time for serious prayer unless we are in trouble or need something from God.
The Challenges of Ministry
Ministry comes with a special set of challenges. There are the big challenges such as having enough money or volunteers to meet needs. At the same time, little challenges face us every day. You may find times when you feel discouraged or drained from the effort you put in.
The only way you can keep going on the tough days is by maintaining constant communication with God in prayer. When ministry work drains you emotionally, mentally and physically, the only way to re-energize is through prayer.
What prayer does:
- It helps you look past the people who are ungrateful or not receptive to your help to the God you are serving.
- It reminds you of why you got involved in ministry.
- It keeps you focused on the end result when nothing appears to be changed.
- It strengthens your faith when you don’t see the answer in front of you.
- It gives you physical strength when you are exhausted.
Prayer is your lifeline when you are involved in ministering to others.
Developing a Strong Prayer Life
It is all too easy to be busy for God and forget to spend time with Him until a major crisis occurs. You will be better prepared for a crisis if you have spent time with Him in prayer on a regular basis. Even if you know this fact from experience, it can be difficult to develop a strong prayer life.
Begin by setting aside time every day in prayer. Put it on your schedule like any other activity. Create a list of what you will pray about to keep your mind focused. You don’t have to spend a lot of time in prayer to begin with, but it needs to be a regular activity.
Find a prayer partner, preferably someone who is involved in the same ministry. If you are a team leader, get your group together for prayer time. This activity will strengthen everyone and you will be held accountable. You will be less likely to skip prayer time if others are counting on you.
Never get so busy doing for God that you forget to spend time communicating with Him. He is the reason for your ministry and the One Who keeps you going when your own strength fails.
What are some tips you have found to help you maintain a strong prayer life? What are some struggles you have? Share in the comments below to encourage others and be encouraged.
