Last month we completed the sermon series on the epistle to the Colossians. We learned that Paul in his final instruction to the church in Colossae, requested that the church pray for him and his team.
“At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison — that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak” Col.4:3-4.
Similar requests to “pray for us” were also mentioned in other Pauline epistles (1 & 2 Thessalonians; Hebrews; 2 Cor 1:11 and Phil 1:19). It shows us how much the apostle covets and values the church’s prayerful support. Like us missionaries also face temptations and discouragements. The sending church has a responsibility to pray for their missionaries who are in the front line doing God’s work. Prayer is one practical way to show our love and support for our missionaries. To pray effectively we need to:
- Pray “knowingly” – how much do we know our missionaries, where they serve, the difficulties and challenges they faced daily, the religious and political situation affecting their work etc.
- Pray “intimately” – missionaries have specific needs be it personal or family related. They often struggle with various issues and obstacles in the field. Pray that they will be able to work harmoniously with other team members as well as with the local churches. Pray that they will be salt and light for God in the local communities. Besides having to adjust to a different culture, many also had to learn a new language and live and work with team mates from other cultures. They can succumb to undue pressure and become weary and depressed.
- Pray “consistently” – to faithfully support our missionaries we must make time to pray for them. We can also schedule a specific time and day to pray for missionaries. Please let the church office know if you would like to receive prayer updates and newsletters of BC’s missionaries.
What to pray for missionaries:
– Open doors and fruitful ministry
– Wisdom and boldness to witness with clarity and tactfulness
– Protection from harm and danger (sickness, physical harm)
– Good relationship and teamwork
– Spiritual walk and growth
– Physical, emotional and mental health
– Children’s education and their spiritual needs
– Able to adapt well in the community and be sensitive to the culture
– Perseverance in the face of challenges and obstacles
Deacon Wayne Teo
