Praying for spiritual growth? How do I pray for the spiritual lives of my group members? Scripture to read: Colossians 1:9-12.
Group leaders enjoy the privilege of interceding in prayer for our members. We uncover needs through conversation, emails, or prayer lists, but often those requests are physical—sick relatives, job issues, or family troubles. How do we pray for the spiritual lives of those attending our groups?
Writing from a Roman prison Paul penned a letter to the Colossians, a church family he had never visited. The church at Colosse had a reputation for living out their faith. While a face-to-face meeting was not possible, Paul could pray for those believers. God’s power is never blocked by prison walls.
Paul had seven specific requests for the Colossians, and through his example we find guidelines for praying for the spiritual growth of our members.
“To fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives”
God has a plan for each member. Perhaps one person seeks new prospects, welcomes visitors, and adds continuity to the group’s ministry. God’s desire may be for others to multiply and form a second group. Some who attend are serving elsewhere in the church, and group is their recharging station. Certain members may experience God’s call to full-time service domestically or internationally. Group members are on loan to us, and our prayers should reflect this understanding. We can ask God to guide and reveal His will to each member.
“that you may live a life worthy of the Lord”
Living the Christian life consistently is a challenge with all the temptations and distractions around us. Masks and cloaks of deception expertly donned by some believers hide inappropriate life practices. Pray that God brings transparency to the group so that we may help one another mature in faith and practice. Pray for openness in conversations and courage to share struggles and weaknesses.
“so that you may please him in every way”
Our intended purpose as individual believers matches the purpose for our groups. We exist to bring glory to God. Every thought, word, and deed must reflect our status as His children and our awareness of His expectations. What would Jesus do? becomes much more than a motto to engrave on a child’s bracelet. This is our mission statement, and all of us need God’s power to live it.
“bearing fruit in every good work”
A Christian connected to Christ bears fruit by His design. Our prayers and encouragement urge others to explore, to discover their sweet spot of service, and then to step out by faith. The group is not a final resting place but a launching pad. We ask God to fill hearts with a passion to serve and minds with an awareness of the vast possibilities surrounding us.
“growing in the knowledge of God”
Personal time with God in Bible study and prayer is often the first casualty of a crowded schedule. For the believer these are the crucial activities that will help us live a life of faith. Praying that God will create a sense of urgency in our members to schedule time with Him then regularly honor that appointment is intercessory prayer of the highest degree.
“being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience”
In the world of real estate location, location, location is fundamental. In the spiritual growth of our people the key is encourage, encourage, encourage. With our experience as leaders we know the struggles of the Christian walk, and we understand the stresses of serving. We have an active enemy prowling about to dissuade spiritual endeavors. God has strength to spare and freely offers His help. Can we pray over our people asking Him to develop their endurance and patience?
“giving joyful thanks to the Father.”
Perhaps this request is more for the leaders than the group members. Are we consistent in thanking God for the individuals He has gathered in our groups? In verse 2 Paul wrote, “We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you.” Can we honestly pray that for each member?
Group leaders man the front lines in connecting people to Jesus for life change. Thank God we don’t have to go it alone.