Pray Like Paul: A Prayer Guide for Pastors

Stephen Gale

Oct 11

2 min read

Begin with thanksgiving

Read Ephesians 1:15–23, Ephesians 3:14–21, Colossians 1:9–14, and Philippians 1:3–11. Paul’s prayers combine thanksgiving with requests for spiritual understanding, strength, love, discernment, and fruitful lives. Read each passage before praying.

Ephesians 1 — Know God and the hope of His calling

Father of glory, give us wisdom and revelation in knowing You. Enlighten our hearts to understand the hope of Your calling, the riches of Your inheritance, and the greatness of Your power toward those who believe. Keep our attention on the risen Christ, the Head of the church. This prayer paraphrases Ephesians 1:17–23.

Ephesians 3 — Strengthened and rooted in love

Father, strengthen us through Your Spirit in our inner lives. Let Christ dwell in our hearts through faith. Root and establish us in love, and help us grasp Christ’s love together with all Your people. Fill our lives with Your presence and bring glory to Yourself in the church and in Christ Jesus. This prayer paraphrases Ephesians 3:14–21.

Colossians 1 — Wisdom that becomes faithful living

Lord, fill us with the knowledge of Your will in spiritual wisdom and understanding. Help us live in a way that honours You, bear fruit in good works, and grow in knowing You. Strengthen us for patient endurance with joy and thanksgiving. Thank You for the redemption and forgiveness we have in Your Son. This prayer paraphrases Colossians 1:9–14.

Philippians 1 — Love with discernment

Father, let our love grow with knowledge and discernment. Help us recognise what matters, walk sincerely, and bear the fruit of righteousness through Jesus Christ, to Your glory and praise. This prayer paraphrases Philippians 1:9–11.

Lead a prayer meeting

Thank God for specific people. Read one passage aloud. Name its requests and pray them for your congregation and fellow pastors. Allow a quiet moment for personal response. Close by identifying one practical action that expresses the prayer.

For ministry leaders

Pray for understanding before asking only for outward results; inner strength alongside ministry demands; love alongside knowledge; endurance alongside expectation; and fruitful service alongside gifts. These are Scripture-shaped prayers, rather than a formula that controls outcomes.

Personal reflection

Which request have you rarely prayed? Where is discernment needed? How can you show love this week? Who needs encouragement to endure? Share personal prayer details only with consent.