I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people — for kings and all those in authority… (1 Timothy 2:1-2a, NIV)
Recently, I felt led to spend some time praying for clients I haven’t spoken with in a while, particularly those who have engaged my services for sexual integrity recovery. While many of these clients have done well and have suspended my services because they no longer need the level of support I provide, some I haven’t heard from for unknown reasons. These cases are always sad to me, as I realize they’re out there potentially struggling on thier own with limited or no other support.
It’s especially disheartening when this happens to those at various levels of Christian leadership.
For sometime now, the Enemy has been stepping up attacks against Christian leaders, especially men. Sure, all us men deal with sexual integrity challenges. This is nothing new. But American society is changing rapidly now. Daily, it’s becoming more hostile against those who hold to a traditional, historically biblical worldview. Christian leaders in this category are squarely within the crosshairs of an enemy who desires not just to neutralize them but to take them out completely. And of all the tools I see the Enemy using right now, sexual temptation is number one.
The Sunday school teacher who can’t stay away from Internet porn. The pastor who keeps thinking about an old affair partner. The Christian business leader preoccupied with reading sexually-oriented news items on the Internet. The denominational leader who, though he hasn’t been engaging sin directly, still struggles with the shame of his past choices because he remains isolated from relationships that are safe to talk about such things.
The nature of Christian leadership tends toward isolation and loneliness, anyway. But it’s much worse for those who are in the midst of seriously contending for their sexual integrity.
Would you please commit today to pray for your Christian leaders – the ones who lead your church or a nonprofit Christian ministry you believe in? Consider writing them a note of encouragement. You don’t have to tell them what specifically you’re praying for. Just telling them you prayed for them would be an encouragement and would let them know they’re not as alone and ineffective as they’re tempted to believe sometimes.
If you’re in Christian ministry (and if you’re reading this blog, many of you are), would you consider praying a similar prayer for your colleagues in ministry? I would also challenge you to let them know that you’re praying for them, too, whether that means telling them by stepping down the hallway, sending a text or making a phone call.
It doesn’t matter how long it’s been since you’ve spoken with them. Don’t let that be an excuse. I’m sure they’d love to hear from you.
The Bible tells us that prayer changes things. Let’s put it into action, trusting it will have an impact in the spiritual realm – even if we don’t see the results with her physical eyes.
On behalf of those Christian leaders, and on behalf of my clients, thank you.
P.S. If you know a man or Christian leader who’s struggling for integrity or has influence in helping other men who are struggling, please let them know about my sexual integrity recovery services. Pass along my contact information or my website. Or, simply share this article with them. It’s my privilege and honor to help men, especially those in Christian leadership.
