In the closing verses of 1 Thessalonians Paul requests, "Brethren, pray for us." He goes on to charge them by the Lord that “this epistle be read by all the holy brethren.” Not only did Paul specifically request prayer for he and Silvanus and Timothy, but he wanted to be sure that everyone knew of his request.

  I also feel held to make a similar request of you all. We have just finished an outstanding Youth Camp. God blessed us all so graciously, and we are so very thankful. Now our attention turns to the Ministering With God’s Power Series. We are so very excited, and we anticipate God working in a most similar and gracious fashion. We do our best to stay in the center of his will, and expect that doing so will encourage people to expect and receive God’s best.

  Your support in prayer as we prepare for Ministering With God’s Power will be crucial and vital. If you could not only focus on John and I as we prepare, but also on everyone who will be attending. We want to remove any obstacle that may stand in the way of anyone being there that should be. Picture alacrity of mind for not only the teachers but the students also. I believe God has worked and will continue to work in people’s hearts so that they will receive His best.

  I know it is probably habitual for you to pray for your ministers, but I don’t feel that my earnest request is unnecessary. If Paul felt obliged to make the request, how much more do we know we also need it. We understand the responsibility that rests upon us, and we are comforted knowing that your prayer and believing is united with us.

  I’d like to echo the sentiments of Charles Spurgeon who said: