I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. Eph. 3:7-9 (NIV)
Heavenly Father, we thank you today for those who faithfully share the gospel to us—our pastors and pod-casters, favorite authors and gospel-servants. Even more so, we’re grateful for the gospel you’ve given them to share. “Boundless riches” seems like an understatement to describe every good thing you give us in Jesus.
Our guilt is gone and our shame is shattered; we’re rooted in your love and standing in your grace. We’re clothed in Christ’s righteousness and resting in your forgiveness. We’ve been sealed by your Spirit and made your beloved children. We have a living hope now and a glorious future forever. Hallelujah, many times over.
Father, we ask you to refresh and renew the emissaries of your grace you’ve placed in our lives. May your love for them be 1000 times more compelling than anything else in life. Grant them humility and joy appropriate to their callings, and kindness and boldness essential for their teaching.
May they tremble at your Word and boast in their weakness; see Jesus clearly and love him deeply. Keep them from taking credit on the days when “everything works,” and far from self-pity when their thoughts are scrambled and words are halting.
Father, help them love Jesus’ sheep more than they love their own voices. Protect them when temptation roars and criticism grows. Grant them gospel sanity and quick repentances, a trustworthy gospel-posse and seasoned wise mentors. Keep us faithful in our prayers for them and consistent in our encouragement. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ exalted and loving name.
