As believers, we are called to uplift and support our pastors, who tirelessly labor in service of God’s kingdom. Offering prayers for our spiritual leaders is a profoundly loving act, acknowledging the responsibilities they carry and the impact they have on our lives.
The scriptures, our source of wisdom and guidance, provide a meaningful foundation for our prayers. In this blog post, we’ll delve into 31 scriptures to pray for your pastor, offering insights into the significance of each verse as we intercede on behalf of these devoted leaders.
31 Scriptures To Pray for Your Pastor
#1. 1 Timothy 3:1
“This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.”
As you pray, ask for God to instill in your pastor a clear sense of calling and purpose. Pray that they wholeheartedly desire the role of overseeing and shepherding the congregation, understanding the profound responsibility that comes with it. Let your prayer be a petition for unwavering commitment and a deep passion for nurturing souls.
#2. Jeremiah 3:15
“And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.”
In your prayers, request that God provides your pastor with the wisdom and insight needed to nurture the spiritual growth of the congregation, guiding them on the path of God’s truth. Pray that their teaching is both nourishing and enlightening, leading the congregation to a deeper understanding of God’s ways.
#3. Ephesians 4:11-12
“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.”
Pray that your pastor is empowered to equip and uplift the church, aiding in the spiritual growth of believers and fostering unity within the body of Christ. Ask that they are strengthened with the ability to teach, guide, and encourage, contributing to the overall maturity of the congregation.
#4. Hebrews 13:17
“Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”
Pray that your pastor leads with joy, knowing that they are entrusted with the care of souls, and that their efforts bear spiritual fruit within the congregation. Intercede for their leadership, that it brings spiritual prosperity to both them and the flock they shepherd.
#5. Colossians 1:9
“For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.”
Pray that your pastor’s pursuit of spiritual understanding is unwavering, enabling them to guide the congregation in alignment with God’s will. Let your prayer be a plea for discernment and insight, that they may lead with wisdom and make decisions rooted in spiritual understanding.
#6. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13
“And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.”
Pray that your pastor is known, respected, and loved within the congregation, fostering an atmosphere of unity and peace. Ask that their efforts to guide and instruct are received with open hearts, resulting in a congregation that supports and loves one another.
#7. 1 Peter 5:2-3
“Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock.”
Pray that your pastor shepherds the flock with a willing heart, leading by example and prioritizing the spiritual well-being of the congregation over personal gain. Let your prayer encompass humility, that their leadership reflects servant-hood rather than seeking personal benefit.
#8. Philippians 1:9-11
“And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.”
Pray that your pastor’s love deepens, guided by discernment, leading to righteous living that brings glory to God. Ask for an overflow of love that is grounded in knowledge and wisdom, resulting in a life that reflects Christ’s teachings.
#9. Numbers 6:24-26
“The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”
Pray for blessings, divine presence, and peace to envelop your pastor’s life and ministry. Let your prayer be a petition for God’s favor, protection, and serenity to rest upon them in all aspects of their service.
#10. Psalm 23:1-3
“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”
Pray that your pastor experiences God’s guidance, rest, and restoration, so they can continue to lead with strength and purpose. Let your prayer be a plea for spiritual nourishment and rejuvenation in the midst of their demanding responsibilities.
#11. 2 Timothy 4:2
“Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.”
Pray that your pastor’s preaching is filled with conviction, patience, and sound doctrine, effectively reaching hearts both in favorable and challenging times. Let your prayer encompass a plea for the bold proclamation of truth and the patience to shepherd souls through the diverse seasons of life.
#12. Romans 10:14
“How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?”
Pray that your pastor’s preaching bridges the gap between hearts and the message of Christ, leading to faith and belief in Him. Let your prayer be a petition for their words to be instruments of salvation, drawing people into a transformative relationship with Christ.
#13. Psalm 121:1-2
“I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.”
Pray that your pastor continually seeks God’s guidance and support, finding strength and help in their divine relationship. Let your prayer encompass a plea for unwavering faith and a reliance on God’s wisdom in every aspect of their ministry.
#14. Isaiah 40:31
“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
Pray that your pastor finds renewed strength and resilience in God’s presence, soaring above challenges and continuing their ministry without weariness. Let your prayer be a petition for spiritual endurance and empowerment, enabling them to fulfill their calling with unwavering vitality.
#15. Psalm 119:105
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
Pray that your pastor’s journey is illuminated by God’s Word, guiding them in making wise and faithful decisions. Let your prayer encompass a plea for divine revelation and guidance, as they navigate the complexities of ministry and leadership.
#16. 2 Corinthians 4:5
“For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.”
Pray that your pastor’s preaching centers on Christ, humbly serving the congregation for the sake of Jesus’ message. Let your prayer be a petition for humility and a steadfast focus on proclaiming the transformative message of Christ’s love and salvation.
#17. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25
“Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.”
Pray that your pastor perseveres in their ministry like an athlete in a race, maintaining discipline and focus on the eternal rewards. Let your prayer be a plea for endurance, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the calling.
#18. Acts 6:4
“But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.”
Pray that your pastor dedicates themselves to both prayer and the ministry of God’s Word, seeking spiritual nourishment and sharing it with the congregation. Let your prayer encompass a plea for spiritual intimacy with God and a deep understanding of His Word to guide their teaching.
#19. Psalm 133:1
“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”
Pray that your pastor fosters unity within the congregation, creating an atmosphere of harmony and love among believers. Let your prayer be a petition for a spirit of unity and cooperation to flourish within the church community.
#20. Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
Pray that your pastor’s trust in God is unwavering, that they rely on His guidance in all aspects of their leadership and decision-making. Let your prayer encompass a plea for surrender, acknowledging God’s sovereignty and wisdom in every step they take.
#21. 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24
“And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.”
Pray for your pastor’s spiritual wholeness and sanctification. Ask that God preserves them in body, soul, and spirit, keeping them blameless as they await Christ’s return. Let your prayer be a petition for holiness and spiritual fortitude, that they may be vessels of God’s righteousness.
#22. Psalm 121:7-8
“The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.”
Pray for God’s protection over your pastor’s life, both in their ministry endeavors and in their daily activities. Let your prayer encompass a plea for divine safety, guarding against spiritual and physical harm.
#23. James 5:14-15
“Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.”
Pray for your pastor’s health and well-being. Ask that God’s healing power and forgiveness are extended to them when needed. Let your prayer be a petition for restoration and well-being, both physically and spiritually.
#24. Galatians 6:9
“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
Pray that your pastor remains steadfast and persistent in their ministry efforts. Ask that weariness and discouragement are replaced with a renewed sense of purpose and anticipation for the harvest. Let your prayer encompass a plea for resilience, enabling them to press on despite challenges.
#25. 1 Corinthians 16:14
“Let all your things be done with charity.”
Pray that your pastor’s actions and decisions are grounded in love, both for God and for the congregation. Ask that their ministry is characterized by selflessness and compassion. Let your prayer be a petition for a heart that beats in sync with Christ’s love and a ministry that radiates His compassion.
#26. Hebrews 13:7
“Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.”
Pray that your pastor’s faith serves as an example for others to follow. Ask that their leadership is guided by a steadfast trust in God’s promises. Let your prayer encompass a plea for faith that inspires others, drawing them closer to God.
#27. Romans 15:13
“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.”
Pray for an overflow of joy, peace, and hope in your pastor’s life. Ask that their faith remains unwavering, empowering them through the Holy Spirit. Let your prayer be a petition for spiritual vitality, anchored in the hope and power of the Holy Ghost.
#28. 1 Timothy 5:17
“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine.”
Pray for your pastor’s recognition and honor. Ask that their diligent service, particularly in teaching God’s word, is appreciated and respected by the congregation. Let your prayer encompass a plea for appreciation and gratitude, acknowledging the significance of their role.
#29. Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Pray for your pastor’s unwavering trust in God’s refuge and strength. Ask that they find comfort and support in times of difficulty and uncertainty. Let your prayer be a petition for a deep-seated reliance on God’s stability and a source of refuge.
#30. Romans 12:11
“Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.”
Pray that your pastor’s zeal for serving God remains strong. Ask that they approach their responsibilities with enthusiasm, diligence, and a fervent spirit. Let your prayer encompass a plea for energy and passion that stems from a genuine desire to honor and serve the Lord.
#31. 1 Corinthians 15:58
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”
Pray that your pastor’s commitment to their ministry remains steadfast. Ask that they find assurance in the eternal impact of their labor for the Lord. Let your prayer be a petition for unwavering dedication and a sense of purpose that transcends challenges.
Closing Thoughts
As we conclude this journey through 31 scriptures to pray for your pastor, may we find inspiration in the words of the Bible to intercede on behalf of these devoted leaders. Their role is essential in nurturing our faith and guiding us on our spiritual journeys.
Through our compassionate prayers, we can uplift them, support them, and show them the love and appreciation they truly deserve. Let us commit to holding our pastors in prayer, trusting that as we do, God will work mightily through them to bless our lives and communities.
