ARC Church Planting Prayer Guideنموونە

Spiritual Warfare & Protection

Devotional:

By JJ Vasquez, Journey Church, Winter Park, FL

The most disappointing advice I give church planters continues to be the answer to the question most church planters ask me, “If you could do it all over again, what’s the one thing you would do differently?” My answer? I would pray more. This often leaves them disheartened, expecting a more concrete answer. However, I emphasize that the biggest challenge in establishing a church isn't something tangible - it's the unseen, spiritual aspects.

In my own experience, I significantly underestimated the spiritual battles encountered in church planting. It's akin to claiming new territory, in a spiritual sense. Your emerging church represents a threat to the enemy's established domain in your community. This confrontation has a dual nature. The first component is the necessity of preparation for battle, which is where prayer is essential. Secondly, there is an understanding that victory is already assured, as promised in the Scriptures. We embrace this victory by donning the armor of God, and we do this through prayer.

Paul’s words in Ephesians 6:18-19 are particularly relevant here: “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests…” This indicates a call to constant prayer, battling for more laborers, favor with key community members, and financial resources.

Paul also urges us to remain vigilant and persistent in prayer for all believers. “With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” This is an encouragement for you to embrace your role as a shepherd. In this capacity, it's crucial to pray for, advocate for, and safeguard those who will join your church community.

“Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel…” Moreover, praying for personal strength and your family is vital, trusting in God's plan to use you as a vessel for sharing the Gospel. Your commitment to prayer is not only a spiritual discipline, but also a strategic tool in the church-planting journey.

Application:

Church planting is taking territory from the enemy. Pray often and always because that is where the fighting resides. Schedule a prayer meeting with your team where you pray through the armor of God passage in Ephesians 6.

Meditation:

Meditate on each element of the armor of God in Ephesians 6:10- 17. Imagine yourself putting on each component of the armor and what that means for you to win the battle spiritually. Meditate on the name of Jesus and the power that it gives you over the enemy. Speak the name of Jesus over every problem you are currently facing. (Luke 10:17-18; Philippians 2:10). Plead the blood of Jesus over yourself, your family, and your team (Revelation 12:11).

Closing Prayer:

Father God, I pray in the name of Jesus today! At its mention, every evil spirit must flee from my city, church, and mind. I pray the blood of Jesus over [your church name]. Everyone who makes it into our space crosses into your protection, your power, and your territory. I stand on the power of your word, which says every place we step foot is ours, and proclaim your Lordship, your authority, and your presence over your church, your leaders, and your people. This city belongs to Jesus!