Power of Praying Pastors | Episode 8 | Season 4
In this episode of the Shepherds Network Podcast, Pastor John Carter and Pastor Gina Lynnes dive into the essential role of prayer in the life of a pastor. In a ministry world filled with activity, strategy, and constant demands, it’s easy to forget that the power source of effective leadership is communion with God. So how do pastors cultivate a vibrant prayer life that sustains their spirit and strengthens their ministry?
Key Highlights:
Prayer as Fellowship, Not Just a Task:
Pastor Gina shares how prayer is more than a discipline—it’s a divine invitation to relationship. Rather than seeing prayer as something to check off a list, pastors are called to dwell in God’s presence, finding joy, peace, and power through fellowship with the Father.Breaking Through Insecurity and Inadequacy:
Many pastors struggle with internal doubts—feeling unworthy or unqualified. Pastor Gina reminds us that access to God’s presence isn’t based on performance but on identity. The blood of Jesus makes boldness in prayer not only possible but expected.The Role of the Holy Spirit in Prayer:
Effective prayer is Spirit-led. Pastor Gina explains how the Holy Spirit intercedes, empowers, and reveals, especially through the gift of tongues—a powerful tool for both personal renewal and intercessory breakthrough.Rediscovering Identity in Christ:
Understanding who you are in Christ transforms how you approach prayer. When pastors root their identity in God’s love and authority, prayer becomes a confident, life-giving connection rather than a duty or obligation.Creating a Culture of Prayer in Your Church:
A praying pastor sets the tone for a praying church. Pastor John and Pastor Gina discuss practical ways leaders can cultivate a culture of prayer among their staff, leadership teams, and congregations—establishing prayer as the foundation of all ministry activity.Accessing God’s Presence Through Worship:
The conversation also touches on the powerful connection between worship and prayer. When worship leads the way, hearts open, atmospheres shift, and heaven’s presence becomes tangible.
Key Scriptures
2 Corinthians 2:15 (NLT):
"Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing."
2 Corinthians 11:28 (NLT):
"Then, besides all this, I have the daily burden of my concern for all the churches."
Ephesians 3:12 (NLT):
"Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence."
Hebrews 4:16 (NLT):
"So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most."
Romans 8:26 (NLT):
"And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words."
1 Corinthians 14:1–25 (NLT):
Due to the length of this passage, you can read the full text on Bible Gateway.
Additional Resources
