“It’s a good life.” That’s how a friend of mine who is a pastor describes his career.

Isn’t that awesome? 

At the same time, a survey of pastors found that while many pastors enjoy their calling, they still face real stressors:

• 84 percent say they’re on call 24 hours a day.
• 54 percent find the role of pastor frequently overwhelming.
• 48 percent often feel the demands of ministry are more than they can handle.

For the past month, people across the U.S. have been observing Pastor Appreciation Month. And I know pastors are grateful for the encouragement, acknowledgement, and appreciation. You know what they might appreciate even more? If you would take the encouragement that the apostle Paul gave—and continue to pray for them: “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should” (Colossians 4:2-4).

So instead of just observing Pastor Appreciation Month, let’s all commit to Pastor Appreciation Year by praying for pastors consistently.

Here are ten great ways to pray for them:

1. Pray that your pastor proclaims God’s Word clearly.
2. Pray for God to open doors for the message.
3. Pray for your congregation to support and encourage your pastor. 
4. Pray for your pastor to set boundaries on his schedule, to find periods of rest.
5. Pray for your pastor’s spouse. 
6. Pray for your pastor’s children.
7. Pray for your pastor’s mental wellness and to seek help if he begins to suffer from discouragement, anxiety, or depression. 
8. Pray for wisdom and discernment as he counsels others.
9. Pray for spiritual protection against Satan and temptation.
10. Pray that your pastor becomes a light in the community.

Linda Buxa is a writer and editor. She hopes that you also include all the pastors who serve at Time of Grace in your prayers. 

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