Intro: we live in a world of lists. Grocery list, things to do list, radio stations have top ten lists. At Christmas time people put together their wish list. In the Bible we have a Pastoral wish list for his congregation. Today, I am going to make this my Christmas wish list for everyone here at Bethel. It is found in 3rd John, verse 2.
Pastor’s Christmas Wish List For Bethel
I. That You Prosper–I am not a prosperity preacher, but I do believe in God’s blessings for those who serve Him. I am going to pray God’s favor on your lives for 2007.
a. I pray that God will open doors for you that no one can shut. I pray there will be new opportunities in your life for success. I pray that you will get that raise, or you will receive something special in the mail. I pray that someone blesses you from your family. I pray that the windows of heaven open up and pour out on your life.
b. I pray not only financial prosperity, but I pray that you will be blessed in your relationships. I pray for the marriages of this church that they will remain strong, and there will be peace and joy in your homes. I pray in your decisions you will be guided by the Holy Spirit and God’s Word will give you wisdom.
II. And Be In Health–the next prayer is that our church family will be blessed physically.
a. I pray over every one year check up that the doctor gives you a good report. I pray over every Cat scan or MRI or ultrasound, that the graphs show up good. I pray that any checks for cancer or other diseases will come up negative– which means a good report.
b. I pray over people’s bones that they will be strong, I pray against pains, I pray against viruses coming against the homes. I pray God will bless you with good results from the dentist office.
c. I pray you will be like Caleb and Moses, strong in your older age. I pray you will be able to enjoy activities that require you to walk long distances. If you want to lose weight, I believe you will reach your goal in 2007.
d. If you have been given a bad report, we pray together as a church that you will get a good report next time you visit the doctor. I pray you get so strong that you can get off your medications.
III. Even As Your Soul Prospers–here is the most important Pastoral prayer. I pray that you reach your spiritual goals in 2007. I pray for each of us to win souls for Christ, give to build the kingdom of God, and God to use your talents, gifts and ability to be a blessing to the nations.
a. I pray that you overcome temptations that face you, and you walk in the Spirit over the flesh.
b. I pray you get opportunities to share the gospel, preach, teach, minister in song, drama, human video’s, be used playing an instrument.
c. I pray that we experience a great revival, that we see miracles, people being delivered from addictions, and that the church double in attendance in 2007. I pray that everyone will stay in the Word, pray for the church and it’s leaders, move into greater worship.
d. that you make it to heaven. If this year is the year that the rapture takes place, I pray that we all go up, and no one is left behind. I pray that no obstacle will keep you from serving God, no giant will be to big, no mountain will be to high, and no enemy will be to strong for you to overcome in the Lord.
close: prosper, be in health, may your soul prosper. If you notice, it all hinges on your soul prospering. If you aren’t spiritually right, it will affect your physical well being, it will affect your financially well being, it will affect your relationships with others. I promise, you get right with God, you will get right with everything else. You seek Him first, and He will take care of your life. The battle is the Lord’s, seek first his kingdom and all these other things will be added unto you.
