A Preacher’s Prayer

Father,

All things are from your hand; you have given me this opportunity to preach. I pray that I will be a good steward of it. Cleanse me of all my sin, and make me aware of the sins I need to turn from. Make me a pure and holy vessel to be used by you. 

I thank you for the time you have given me to prepare. Thank you for the resources that help me understand your Word, but thank you most of all for your Word itself. The Bible is a treasure chest full of priceless jewels. In a world of lies and uncertainty, it alone is truth. It comforts and convicts. I thank you for revealing yourself in it and letting us know how we, as sinful creatures, can have a relationship with you, a Holy God. 

Lord, your Word is a sword that cuts deep, dividing joints and marrow; help me to wield it responsibly but also with boldness. May everything I say be accurate to the text, and help me not to shy away from the full counsel of your Word, even the parts that are difficult to hear or understand. I pray that the Holy Spirit will guide me as I proclaim your good news, that I will depend on you and not stand in my own strength. 

Father, I pray for everyone who will be listening today. I ask that you allow those who already know you to draw closer to you, to apply your Word to their lives, and become more like Jesus through their response. However, for those who are lost, I pray that you will bring them into the fold. Draw them to yourself, convict them of their need for a Savior, and let them leave today eternally changed. 

Thank you for the good news of the gospel. Thank you for loving the world so much that you gave your only Son so that whoever believes in Him has eternal life. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel, and help me to always proclaim only Jesus Christ and Him crucified. 

Lord, I look to you, I need you, and I love you. Speak through me today, and may I not be seen; I ask that you alone will receive the honor and glory. 

In Jesus’ name,

Amen