As I recently mentioned on this blog, I am reading through the Old Testament book of Nehemiah as a way of helping me be the godly leader my church family needs me to be during our season of transitioning in some new congregational leaders.
I was so inspired by Nehemiah’s prayer in Nehemiah 1 that I decided to write my own version of that prayer. This version is specific to the Alameda Church of Christ. If you are an Alameda member, I invite you to pray this prayer with me. If you’re not an Alameda member, I encourage you to make this prayer applicable to your context.
Let’s pray.
O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you.
Have mercy on me, my family, and your church – forgive us of our sins and sanctify us through your Spirit so that we may proclaim your wonderful deeds and the salvation your provide to all people through your Son, Jesus Christ.
In this season of Alameda’s life, I humbly ask that you raise up new leaders who will actively help our church “go and make disciples” and who will help us grow in our spiritual health and maturity and who will strengthen our unity as Christian brothers and sisters.
And, Lord, I boldly ask that you give all of Alameda’s leaders and members a clear vision of your redemptive purposes, a firm commitment to your Word, a deep concern for your people, a passion for the hurting and the lost; the courage to pursue your will above all else, the strength to proclaim your truth, the willingness to take risks for the sake of your Kingdom, and a love that puts you first. Give us success in this, for your glory.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
rusty tugman 