I was nearing the end of the message when I felt the first tickle. I cleared my throat and continued. But the tickle grew more persistent. Someone handed me a glass of water, but the need to cough grew stronger. While a volunteer read a Bible passage, I turned to the wall, hacking loudly behind my hand and praying fervently the coughing fit would quickly end.
The speaker you have scheduled for your next women’s conference or retreat desperately needs your prayers – before and during the event. She may have spiritual struggles, family issues, deadlines – or allergies!
We all know prayer is vital, but we often allow the busyness of those last days of event planning to distract us from the event’s primary purpose – the spiritual growth and encouragement of your women. Dozens of details press in and each day we tell ourselves we will “pray later.”
Be purposeful in praying for your speaker. Put it on your to-do list. Ask your team to join you in prayer and help them know how to pray for her.
Here are six specific ways you can pray for your speaker and her ministry to your women:
Message Preparation – You want the message she gives to touch hearts and meet the needs of women. Pray God gives her wisdom and discernment as she studies and prepares. (Colossians 1:19)
Physical Needs – Pray for your speaker’s health, relationships, travel safety and even her technology tools. Every area of her life can impact her ministry. (Romans 1:9-13)
Spiritual Protection – The enemy does not want your speaker’s message to be powerful and effective. Pray that God will “protect her from the evil one.” (John 17:15)
Spiritual Growth – Your speaker is still growing spiritually. Pray she will grow in her knowledge of God and live a life that pleases Him. (Ephesians 3:14-19; Colossians 1:10-11)
Message Delivery –Life isn’t left behind when your speaker approaches the front of the room. She may be dealing with a scratchy throat, a rebellious teenager or a packed schedule. Pray she can deliver God’s message with clarity, boldness and grace. (Colossians 4:4-6, Ephesians 6:19)
Message Effectiveness – This is the end game! Pray her message will hit its mark and bear much spiritual fruit. (Colossians 1:10)
Don’t forget to let your speaker know you’re praying for her. It’s great encouragement.
Question: How are you purposeful in praying for your ministry’s event speaker(s)?
BONUS: Leave a comment and you could win Kathy’s book, Unshakeable Faith. Winner will be selected randomly from comments submitted before Wednesday, April 1.
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